Eli Lilly and Company announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Cymbalta(R) (duloxetine HCl) for the management of fibromyalgia.  Cymbalta is the first serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor with proven efficacy for reducing pain in patients with fibromyalgia.  The fibromyalgia indication represents the second FDA-approved use for Cymbalta for a pain disorder, demonstrating the medication’s analgesic effect.

NFRA welcomes the addition of Cymbalta to the FDA-approved list of medications available for the treatment of fibromyalgia.  “With this listing, the FDA recognizes that each individual’s experiences with the symptoms of fibromyalgia are unique and physicians and patients require treatment alternatives.  Cymbalta offers an important addition to the therapies that can improve the lives of the patients who suffer with this devastating disorder.  We look forward to additional developments,” said Jack Scott, founder of the National Fibromyalgia Research Association.