In 'Neurology' neurologists of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA reported the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of pregabalin for treatment of painful HIV-associated neuropathy.

The study followed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group design using  a flexible dose regime of 150-600 mg/day BID during 12-weeks The primary efficacy measure was the mean Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) score, an 11-point numeric rating scale.

302 patients were randomised 151 on pregabalin and 151 on placebo.

Pregabalin average daily dosage was 385.7 mg/d.

Both pregabalin and placebo showed some  reductions in mean painscore from baseline: -2.88 vs -2.63, the difference was not significant.

Somnolence and dizziness were the most common adverse events with pregabalin.

The autors concluded:

Pregabalin was well-tolerated, but not superior to placebo in the treatment of painful HIV neuropathy. Factors predicting analgesic response in HIV neuropathy warrant additional research. Classification of Evidence: This Class II trial showed that pregabalin is not more effective than placebo in treatment of painful HIV neuropathy. ^[1]

Centre for the study and treatment of neuropathic pain and neuropathy in Soest, the Nertherlands

This site helps patients and treating physicians, neurologists, anesthesiologists and other pain specialists to find the best and most up to date research findings related to neuropathy and neuropathic pain and the treatment thereof.

In our centre we are specialised in treating patients suffering from neuropathic pain and neuropathy following an Integrated Medicine concept. Part of our activities are within the field of consultation. We assist pharmaceutical companies in R&D strategies related to finding new drugs to treat neuropathic pain and neuropathy.

February 2010, Jan M. Keppel Hesselink, MD, PhD.

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