Pharmacological approaches to the therapy of chronic fatigue syndrome

Although a variety of pharmacological agents have been used to treat patients with chronic fatigue syndrome none has been shown to effect a complete resolution of symptoms. Data obtained from a retrospective study and from an objective assessment of the aerobic work capacity of patients with this disorder suggest that the underlying pathophysiological abnormality is a disorder of sleep regulation. This results not only in profound fatigue and lethargy but also reduced sensory threshold for pain, disordered temperature regulation, cardiovascular abnormalities, disturbed higher cerebral function and mental depression. Drugs which modulate sleep, such as tricyclic antidepressants, have a limited effect in improving the symptoms that CFS patients experience. We suggest that other agents which affect central nervous system neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, may have potential in the management of this condition and need to be evaluated in large controlled clinical trials.