Treatment of fibromyalgia and related fatigue syndromes using antagonists or partial agonists of 5HT1a receptors

#The present invention provides a method for treating fibromyalgia and related chronic fatigue syndromes by administering an antagonist or partial agonist of 5HT1a receptors.

#Fibromyalgia is a common clinical condition presenting with musculoskeletal pain and tenderness often accompanied by fatigue (Goldberg D L 1995 Curr Opin Rheumatol 7, 127-135). It is seen both in Primary Care and in Rheumatology Clinics. No specific treatment for the condition is available and it is frequently regarded as a functional disorder which can run a chronic course.

#Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndromes share many clinical characteristics. A majority of the patients are women and usually in their thirties or forties on initial presentation. Over eighty percent in both diagnostic categories complain of fatigue, myalgia, arthralgia, recurrent headache and sleep difficulties (Moldofsky, 1993 Ciba Symposium 173 p 262-279).

#Five patients with fibromyalgia (ACR criteria) who also met criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome (CDC criteria) gave informed consent to take part in this open label treatment study. All were treated with pindolol 2.5 mg three times daily. Four of 5 patients showed a significant improvement in symptoms within 10 days of commencing treatment. There was a reduction in all symptoms and an increase in energy levels and general wellbeing.