Friday, January 30, 2009

1. New FDA Approval: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Savella™ (milnacipran) for the management of fibromyalgia. The medication has demonstrated significant improvements in multiple aspects of fibromyalgia, including pain, patient global assessment and physical function. Savella is the third FDA-approved drug for the treatment of fibromyalgia. The FDA approved Lyrica (pregabalin) in June 2007 and Cymbalta (duloxetine HCl) was approved in June 2008. Click here for details.

2. It’s FREE to Join! Fibromyalgia Social Network Forum: Send your questions to Randy about the unique challenges faced by men with fibromyalgia; let Jan know about any fibromyalgia-friendly diets that you have tried; chat with Phyllis about your experience with alternative therapies; or start your own dialogue with others. The NFA now offers direct access to an online fibromyalgia community. Click here to learn more

3. Reactions to New Membership Program: Hundreds of individuals have signed-up for the NFA’s new online membership program. Thank you for your support! For those who still have questions or concerns about the program, click here.

4. FM Healthcare Professionals Honored: Click here for an announcement on the winners of the “Helping Hands: Making a Difference in Fibromyalgia” Awards.

5. Getting Ready to Move? Sherri Blackinton, of Arizona, shares her experience with moving and adjusting to a new neighborhood while simultaneously trying to manage her fibromyalgia symptoms. Click here to read our newest Member Spotlight.

6. Physician Education: More than 250 healthcare professionals have registered/participated in the Fibromyalgia Assessment, Management and Education (FAME) Project, an online continuing medical education program developed by the National Fibromyalgia Association and California State University, Fullerton. The program, which provides healthcare professionals with accurate fibromyalgia information, recently received accreditation from Commission on Rehabilitation Counselors Certification. In all, the program has been approved for CME/CE credits by seven highly regarded organizations, including the American Academy of Family Physicians.