Managing Severe Body Pain After Taking Belarac: Effective Relief Strategies

After taking Beloc, I am experiencing severe muscle and joint pain throughout my body. Are there any methods to alleviate this?

Dr.
Li: Hello! Thank you for your response to my inquiry on June 30.
I started taking Belak (Baclofen) on June 27.
About 4 to 5 days later, I began experiencing widespread muscle and joint pain, which has progressively worsened.
Today marks the 13th day of medication, and I am in constant discomfort whether sitting or lying down.
When I try to rest in bed, I have to constantly shift positions to find a less painful angle, making it difficult to fall asleep.
I wake up every 2 to 3 hours, rolling from side to side and changing positions.
Even slightly deep or forceful breathing causes pain in my chest and back, and there is not a single part of my body that is free from pain.
I find it hard to sit or stand still.
Is there anyone else who has had a similar reaction? What methods can quickly and effectively alleviate this pain? The thought of being on medication for at least a year is overwhelming, and I truly don’t know how to endure it.
(I also feel a warmth in my muscles and joints, almost like a fever, but my actual body temperature is normal.) I previously asked my attending physician, and he mentioned that none of his patients have experienced such a reaction.
He is unsure of what to do.
I took Danzen (Diclofenac) in 2000 without any adverse reactions.
However, when I took it again from October 2007 to April 2008, the pain I described above caused me significant distress, leading me to insist on stopping the medication after related tests returned normal, and I have been resistant to taking it again, even for a single day.

YY, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/10

Dr. Li Xuanshu reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Yy,
While Belac is mentioned to potentially cause side effects such as headaches, fatigue, diarrhea, and indigestion, the actual incidence of these symptoms is quite low.
Currently, among patients receiving treatment with Belac, very few have reported any discomfort.
Regarding the various symptoms you are experiencing, it may be beneficial to discuss the pain with your physician to see if a prescription for analgesics can be provided.
If you are experiencing a burning sensation in your joints and muscles, it may be worth considering other factors, such as rheumatic or autoimmune issues.
You can further discuss with your doctor whether there is a need for evaluation in this regard.
If other factors are ruled out and the discomfort is solely attributed to the use of Belac, you can discuss the duration of treatment with your physician.
However, I would like to remind you from my previous correspondence that your prior treatment with Gan Aneng was too short, which may have led to a recurrence.
It is still advisable to follow the treatment consensus from the 2008 Asia-Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver:
1.
For patients who were originally e-antigen positive, if the e-antigen has successfully converted to e-antibody positive and the hepatitis B virus (HBV) levels have been undetectable in two tests spaced at least six months apart, discontinuation of medication may be considered.

2.
For patients who were originally e-antigen negative, the duration of treatment is unclear; however, if the HBV levels have been undetectable in three tests spaced at least six months apart, discontinuation of medication may also be considered.
Thank you for your letter.
If there are any further details you would like to discuss, please feel free to reach out again.
Additionally, the foundation has a liver disease consultation hotline at 0800-000583, available for phone consultations Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and Saturday from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM, where professionals and volunteers provide online consultation services.
We also offer free resources such as the "Good Liver" publication and a hepatitis B treatment handbook for your reference.
Wishing you good health,
The Foundation for Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Academic Foundation
Date: 97/07/11

Reply Date: 2008/07/10

More Info

Managing severe body pain after starting a new medication like Belarac (also known as entecavir) can be challenging, especially when the pain significantly impacts daily life and sleep. It’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of this experience. Here are some strategies that may help alleviate your discomfort:
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: The first step is to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about the pain you are experiencing. Since you mentioned that your doctor has not encountered similar reactions in other patients, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult a pain management specialist. They can evaluate your symptoms more thoroughly and consider alternative treatments or adjustments to your medication regimen.

2. Pain Management Medications: Discuss the possibility of using over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. If these are not effective, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications or muscle relaxants to help manage your symptoms. It’s crucial to use these medications under medical supervision, especially considering your ongoing treatment with Belarac.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program that focuses on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. This can help alleviate muscle tension and improve mobility, potentially reducing pain over time.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected areas can provide temporary relief. Heat therapy, such as warm baths or heating pads, can help relax tense muscles, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain. Experiment with both to see which provides more relief for your specific symptoms.

5. Mind-Body Techniques: Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help manage pain and reduce stress. These practices can promote relaxation and improve your overall sense of well-being, which may help mitigate the perception of pain.

6. Acupuncture: Some individuals find relief from chronic pain through acupuncture. This traditional Chinese medicine technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. If you are open to alternative therapies, consider discussing this option with your healthcare provider.

7. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also play a role in pain management. Ensure you are eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. Regular, low-impact exercise, such as walking or swimming, can also help improve your overall physical condition and reduce pain.

8. Support Groups: Connecting with others who are experiencing similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice. Consider joining a support group for individuals dealing with chronic pain or those undergoing treatment for hepatitis B.

9. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your pain levels, triggers, and any other symptoms you experience. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action for your treatment.

10. Re-evaluating Treatment Options: If the pain persists and significantly affects your quality of life, it may be necessary to re-evaluate the use of Belarac. Discuss with your doctor the potential for alternative medications or therapies that may be more suitable for your condition.

In conclusion, managing severe body pain after starting Belarac requires a comprehensive approach that includes medical consultation, pain management strategies, lifestyle modifications, and emotional support. It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the most effective solutions tailored to your specific needs. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you cope with your pain.

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