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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

how do I know if this is a flare up or something else

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Blandford Forum, UK

was diagnosed about 8 months ago , mostly its pain that bothers me , do get tired but usually manage that well , Ive had a bit of a stressful start to the tear , my GP has changed me fron sertraline to duloxatine to help pain relief. Ive been on duloxatine for a week now and feel like Ive been hit by a bus , am cold , tired and sore , dont know if this is a flare up or something else
Im on my own and really dont know what to do with myself , both my go to friends are out the country on… read more

March 16, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members helped someone distinguish between a fibromyalgia flare and possible medication side effects after switching from sertraline to... Read more

Members helped someone distinguish between a fibromyalgia flare and possible medication side effects after switching from sertraline to duloxetine, with many emphasizing that abruptly changing medications without tapering can cause difficult reactions, especially after being on the original medication for years. Several members shared practical advice, including checking medication side effects, monitoring symptoms for four to five days before contacting a doctor, and being aware of weather-related triggers like low barometric pressure, which many experience as increased pain and fatigue. A recurring theme was the challenge of differentiating between new symptoms, drug reactions, and flares, with the community encouraging the person to reach out to their doctor about the rapid medication switch while also validating the real impact fibromyalgia can have on daily life and work.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Cymbalta(Duloxatine) Takes a while to get into the system and if the DR just switched you from sertraline straight to the Cymbalta without titrating off of the other it may be a reaction to the new med. How long were you on Sertraline?

March 17, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Could be a reaction from switching meds rapidly. Some you need to wean off of slowly depending how long you've been on them. I'm not familiar with the brands you mentioned, but I would talk to your Doctor to see if it's a possibility.

March 16, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

The Doc definitely was wrong in the way they changed the med on you. I have been on Cymbalta since it came out for Fibro and it has really helped me. I recently moved back to California and I am living in the desert which from the dry heat has really lessened my symptoms and I am able to enjoy life again.

June 22, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

was on the sertraline at least four years if not longer

March 17, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

If it's been a week on the new meds...I would suggest another treatment. Sounds like you're on a downward slide.

March 16, 2016

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