Aurorix (Moclobemide) for Fibromyalgia

Overview
Aurorix is a prescription drug approved in 2003 by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to treat depression. In people with fibromyalgia, Aurorix can help reduce pain. Aurorix is also known by its drug name, Moclobemide.

Aurorix should be used with caution in people who have a history of liver problems or hypertension.

Aurorix is an antidepressant of the monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) class. Aurorix is believed to work by changing the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

How do I take it?
Your doctor will likely prescribe a low initial dose of Aurorix and increase the dosage gradually in order to avoid side effects.

Aurorix is taken orally immediately after meals.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Aurorix.

Results
In a 1998 study, 130 women who had fibromyalgia but did not suffer from psychiatric disorders were either given Moclobemide (Aurorix), Amitriptyline (Elavil), or a placebo. Although Moclobemide was found to improve pain, it did not improve sleep problems. Participants who took Amitriptyline experienced greater overall improvement compared with those who took Moclobemide. The researchers concluded that Moclobemide may not be effective in treating fibromyalgia in people who do not also have psychiatric disorders.

Side effects
Aurorix may initially cause several side effects that disappear over time as your body becomes acclimatized to the drug. These temporary side effects may include headache, dizziness, nervousness, insomnia, and nausea.

Aurorix may also cause loss of appetite, sweating, dry mouth, and blurred vision.

Notify your doctor if you experience stomach pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, stiff neck, a sudden, intense headache, confusion, behavior changes, fever, or rash while taking Aurorix.

Many drugs can cause allergic reactions that, in the most serious cases, can result in death. Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, throat, eyes, lips, or tongue.