Topical therapies may also provide some benefit to the patient with neuropathic pain syndromes (e.g., capsaicin, lidocaine 5% patch). Remember that a specialist can always be consulted for expert advice or for difficult-to-manage patients. TH
Michele B. Kaufman is a drug information specialist and a medical writer based in New York City.
References
- Neurontin (gabapentin) [package insert]. New York: Pfizer Inc;. December 2005.
- Lyrica (pregabalin) [package insert]. New York: Pfizer Inc; March 2006.
- Cymbalta (duloxetine) [package insert]. Indianapolis: Eli Lilly and Company; December 14, 2005.
- The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics. Duloxetine; Volume 47 (Issue 1215/1216), August 15/29, 2005; 67-68.
- Pregabalin. The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics. 47(1217) :75-77. Available online at www.medletter.com/restricted/articles/w1217b.pdf. Last accessed on July 28, 2006.
- Facts and Comparisons Updated Monthly. Wolters Kluwer Health: October 2005.
- Thomson Micromedex Healthcare Series: Document Comparison of Pregabalin and Gabapentin. Available at: www.thomsonhc.com/hcs/librarian/PFDefaultActionId/pf.PrintReady. Last accessed June 7, 2006.
- Argoff CE, Backonia M-M, Belgrade ML, et al. Consensus Guidelines: treatment planning and options. Mayo Clin Proc. 2006;81(4):S12-S25.
- Argoff CE, Cole BE, Fishbain DA, et al. Diabetic Peripheral neuropathic pain: clinical and quality-of-life issues. Mayo Clin Proc. 2006;81(4, suppl):S3-S11.
- Belgrade ML, Cole BE, McCarberg BH, et al. Diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain: case studies. Mayo Clin Proc. 2006 Apr;81(4 Suppl):S26-S32.