Effectiveness of Codeine on Fibromayalgia

[stormyskye24]

Hi, I'm doing a research project on Codeine and it is my job to get a doctor's perspective on the general use of it. I've done some looking around, and I was wondering how effective you think Codeine is for treating Fibromayalgia because my grandmother happens to be inflicted with it.

Thanks for your time

[Debbie Miller, RN]

Hello,
I am not a doctor but my experience is that narcotics are not a good choice for fibromyalgia pain because it is chronic and abuse is a huge risk. Mild but regular exercise, adequate sleep, good nutrition and some forms of alternative medicine such as yoga, pain management through hypnosis, acupuncture, massage, heat pads, etc. might help. Some people benefit from OTC analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs such as Voltarin, though it is not an inflammatory condition. Used as a pain reliever these meds may be helpful anyway.

Best wishes.

[Tom Plamondon PA-C]

I agree with Debbie. Codeine seems to be a better cough suppressant than an analgesic.
Regarding alternative medicine, message with essential oils (e.g. wintergreen oil diluted with almond or olive oil) may help.