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Hi, I've been told by the pain team that I need to come off Amitriptyline, I was on 150mg at night. I've managed to get down to 10mg now.

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
United Kingdom England

Once I'm off them completely they are putting me onto pregabolin, I just wanted to know if these are any better than Amitriptyline and do they help with sleep. Been feeling horrendous this week but think it's just the withdrawal from the Amitriptyline.

April 22
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A MyFibroTeam Member

Withdrawing From Amitriptyline is hard. I take Tylenol arthritis, but Tylenol pm is even better. Plus 3 magnesium, and cbd

April 22 (edited)
A MyFibroTeam Member

I take promethazine for sleep but they don't work, even on the high dose amitriptyline I didn't sleep very well. So I'm hoping the pregabolin will at least help a little. I'm lucky if I manage 4 hours and it's been like that for years, I constantly wake every couple of house then struggle to go back to sleep. I used to go to work some nights at 3am, luckily it was a 24 hour business. 😊

April 22
A MyFibroTeam Member

I take trazadone for sleep but I also use you tube videos for sleep. There are some called yoga nidra and they help me. I also take magnesium which has also helped

April 22
MyFibroTeam

Are pregabalin and amitriptyline better for fibromyalgia, and does pregabalin help with sleep?

First, congratulations on tapering down from 150mg to 10mg — that's a significant accomplishment, and withdrawal symptoms are completely normal during this process. Feeling rough this week is likely related to the reduction.

Show Full Answer

Are pregabalin and amitriptyline better for fibromyalgia, and does pregabalin help with sleep?

First, congratulations on tapering down from 150mg to 10mg — that's a significant accomplishment, and withdrawal symptoms are completely normal during this process. Feeling rough this week is likely related to the reduction.

Pregabalin is FDA-approved specifically for fibromyalgia and can be effective for nerve pain and sleep issues. It works differently than amitriptyline, targeting nerve signals rather than affecting multiple brain chemicals. Many people find it helpful, though everyone responds differently.

Regarding sleep:

Pregabalin can help with sleep quality, though it may work differently than amitriptyline. Some people find it improves their sleep by reducing pain and calming nerve activity, while others may need additional sleep support.

What to expect:

* Pregabalin may take a few weeks to show full benefits
* Side effects can include dizziness, drowsiness, or weight gain initially
* Your pain team will likely start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it

Managing the transition:

While you're finishing your taper and starting pregabalin, consider these sleep-supporting strategies:

* Keep a consistent sleep schedule
* Make your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet
* Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening
* Try relaxation techniques before bed

If sleep remains challenging after starting pregabalin, talk with your pain team about additional options like melatonin or other sleep aids.

April 22

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