What are small molecules?
Small molecules are a subset of bioactive molecules, that can be endogenous, like amino acids, lipids and sugars, or produced artificially, like pharmaceuticals. They are deemed "small molecules" based on relative size to "big molecules", such as proteins and genes. Small molecules can play an important role in disease etiology and treatment and can be identified through chemical screens.
Drug Treatments for MEFV
Approved Drug Treatments for Fibromyalgia
Currently the FDA has approved three drugs to treat fibromyalgia: the anti-convulsant Lyrica (2004), the SNRI Cymbalta (2008), and the SNRI Savella (2009). Other anti-depressants or pain-reducers may be prescribed off-label [1]. These drugs all target the receptors and neurotransmitter systems in the brain to reduce response. Colchicine in Familial Mediterranean Fever
References
[1] Prescription Medications for Fibromyalgia: Lyrica, Cymbalta, Savella, and Off-Label Remedies. Health (last updated Sept 2009). [2] Dinarello, CA, Wolfe, SM, Goldfinger, SE, Dale, DC, and Alling, DW. (1974) Colchicine Therapy for Familial Mediterranean Fever — A Double-Blind Trial. N Engl J Med 291:934-937. [3] Livneh, A, Zemer, D, Langevitz, P, Laor, A, Sohar, E, and Pras, M. (1994) COLCHICINE TREATMENT OF AA AMYLOIDOSIS OF FAMILIAL MEDITERRANEAN FEVER. Arthritis & Rheumatism 37(12): 1804–1811. |