Fibromyalgia: New Medications for FMS: Kadian

Individuals seeking fibromyalgia treatment specifically in the form of fibromyalgia medications, may be interested in some of the fibro drugs that are currently available such as Kadian. This substance has been found to alleviate common fibromyalgia symptoms. But what is Kadian and are there any side effects associated with this type of fibromyalgia treatment?

What is Kadian?

Kadian is a morphine sustained-release tablet used to treat chronic moderate to severe pain associated with a variety of illnesses and conditions, including fibromyalgia syndrome. It is only available through prescription.

Morphine is a common type of opioid, a narcotic drug prescribed to manage pain that is sometimes also used to increase the effectiveness of certain anesthetics prior to or during surgery.

Already available in 20 mg, 30 mg, 50 mg, 60 mg and 100 mg strengths, a new 80 mg Kadian capsule was made available in fall of 2006.

What Types of Conditions Does Kadian Help to Treat?

In addition to treating fibromyalgia, the drug kadian is used to treat the following illnesses and conditions:

cancer
heart attacks
sickle cell disease

Kadian and Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Kadian can help to treat a variety of the symptoms of fibromyalgia, as supported by the findings of a recent supplemental study on the drug.

The study found that the morphine kadian is helpful in alleviating many common fibromyalgia symptoms, such as fibromyalgia pain and sleep problems. The study also looked at kadian sustained release morphine’s effect on individuals with arthritis.

Study participants with fibromyalgia syndrome reported a 24% improvement in their fibromyalgia pain symptoms, as well as a 15% improvement in their sleep patterns. The participants also reported an increased quality of life in terms of fibromyalgia relief after taking kadian for a period of four weeks.

Side Effects and Risks

While the morphine kadian is a breakthrough in treatment for fibromyalgia, there are a variety of side effects and risks associated with the use of this drug.

The study outlined above, for example, found that constipation and nausea were the most common side effects of kadian reported by the study’s participants.

However, more serious side effects, while rare, can also result from kadian, including the following:

seizures
slow or fast heartbeat
extreme weakness
cold, clammy skin
breathing difficulties or wheezing

Some more common kadian side effects include:

confusion
nervousness
restlessness
lightheadedness
fainting

If you experience any of the above symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor immediately.

Some less serious side effects associated with kadian include:

itchiness
blurred vision
dizziness
dry mouth
flushing
pinpoint pupils
sweating

While these symptoms are generally not severe, you should report them to your doctor should they persist or become bothersome.

Another important element to remember when taking kadian as part of your fibromyalgia treatment is that kadian capsules must be swallowed whole and not chewed, dissolved or crushed. A person taking kadian must not consume alcoholic beverages while on the drug. If these two kadian warnings are not followed, a fatal kadian dosage may be administered.

Is Kadian Right for Me?

When assessing whether kadian is the right fibromyalgia drug treatment for you, your doctor will evaluate your medical history and the severity of your fibromyalgia symptoms.

Kadian is not for everyone. It is not suitable if one or more of the following conditions applies to you:

you are allergic to morphine
you have severe asthma or other breathing problems
you have a severe bowel obstruction

You should tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions before taking any kodian dosages:

heart disease
liver disease
lung disease
seizures

You should also tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as morphine can be found in breast milk. In addition, you should advise your health care provider if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. If you become pregnant and are taking kadian, contact your doctor immediately.