An open-label, long-term, phase III extension trial of duloxetine in Japanese patients with fibromyalgia.

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of duloxetine 60 mg in Japanese patients with fibromyalgia enrolled from a preceding randomized, placebo-controlled, phase III duloxetine trial.

Methods: This was a long-term, open-label extension study. Patients received oral duloxetine once daily at a dose of 20 mg for 1 week, followed by 40 mg for 1 week, and then 60 mg for 48 weeks.

An epidemiologic internet survey of fibromyalgia and chronic pain in Japan.

Objective: To determine the epidemiologic features and symptom characteristics of fibromyalgia (FM) in Japan, and compare them with those for other chronic pain (CP) diagnoses.

Methods: An internet survey was conducted in June and July 2011. The questionnaire consisted of 111 questions, including assessments of the Japanese version of the 2010 American College of Rheumatology preliminary diagnostic criteria for FM, the Japanese Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, and additional questions regarding pain and lifestyle.