Medication

People with fibromyalgia usually have chronic pain, muscle stiffness, fatigue, and sleep problems. The disorder affects more women than men, and commonly develops in early-to-middle adulthood. In the absence of a diagnostic test, doctors typically conduct physical examinations, evaluate symptoms, and rule out other possibilities, the FDA said.

Lyrica was approved for fibromyalgia following clinical trials involving about 1,800 people, although not all participants were helped by the drug, the agency said. Common side effects of the medication included dizziness, sleepiness, blurred vision, weight gain, dry mouth, and swelling of the extremities. Lyrica also can impair motor function and cause problems with concentration and attention, the FDA said.

The agency warned prospective users to discuss with their doctor whether Lyrica could impair the ability to drive.

Lyrica, manufactured by Pfizer, Inc., is already approved to treat partial seizures, and pain from shingles and diabetic neuropathy.

Naproxen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that belongs to the class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is available in over-the-counter and prescription formulations.

Pain conditions that may be treated with naproxen include:

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is caused by joint cartilage deterioration.Headache

Backaches

Menstrual pain

Muscle aches

Toothaches

Arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, gout and ankylosing spondylitis

Tendinitis and bursitis

Scientists believe that naproxen works by inhibiting prostaglandin production. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances in the body that mediate a wide range of physiological functions.