Treatments for neuropathic pain

pharmaceutical-journal.com/research/review-article/treatments-for-neuropathic-pain/20203641.article

Clinical Pharmacist 1 DEC 2017 By Krista G Brooks , Tiffany L Kessler

Abstract: Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common condition characterised by subjective negative and positive symptoms that range from
numbness to debilitating pain. NP can have a significant negative impact on a patient’s quality of life. Pharmacotherapy is typically the
first step in treating NP. Guidelines and consensus statements from various organisations around the world appear to be consistent with the
classes of medications recommended for both general and specific types of NP, which include antidepressants and anticonvulsants. Even
with these first-line therapies, the majority of patients may not experience complete pain relief. This review presents epidemiological data,
summarises available pharmacotherapy treatments and compares recommendations from key organisations, including the National
Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Neuropathic Pain Special Interest Group (NeuPSIG) and the Canadian Pain Society,
as well as other organisations. Information is presented about the screening tools used to help determine the presence of the disorder and
classification of NP.
Keywords: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, HIV neuropathy, neuropathic pain, postherpetic neuralgia,
trigeminal neuropathy
Original submitted: 30 June 2017; Revised submitted: 19 August 2017; Accepted for publication: 13 September 2017

Source: Jacopin / BSIP / Science Photo Library

Neuropathic pain (NP) is caused by damage or injury to the nerves that transfer information between the
brain and spinal cord from the skin, muscles and other parts of the body. NP can negatively impact a
patient’s quality of life.

Key points:
Chronic neuropathic pain is associated with poor quality of life.
Common peripheral neuropathies include painful diabetic neuropathy, HIV-associated neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy,
postherpetic neuralgia and trigeminal neuralgia.
Guidelines from different countries offer consistent recommendations for treating neuropathic pain. Effective first and second-line
therapies include tricyclic antidepressants, duloxetine, venlafaxine, gabapentin, pregabalin and topical lidocaine.
Limitations to treatment include incomplete pain relief and medication side-effect profiles.
Future research considerations include the use of validated screening tools, multi-modal medication combinations and phenotypic
subtyping.

Introduction
Neuropathic pain (NP) has been defined by the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) as “pain caused by a lesion or disease of the
somatosensory nervous system[1].” NP is a common condition that results from various aetiologies and can be categorised into either peripheral or
central NP syndromes. Central NP is the result of a central lesion or disease such as stroke, multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury[2], whereas
peripheral NP occurs from dysfunction or damage to peripheral nerves[3].
Data have indicated that 8% of the general population in the UK experience pain of neuropathic origin[4]. In France, 7% of the general population
are affected by NP[5]. A study in Canada reported that 17.9% of the general population reported chronic pain with neuropathic symptoms[6];
however, a recent Canadian study has reported lower percentages[6][7]. A study in the United States (US) revealed that the prevalence rates for NP
determined by either clinical examination or self-reporting were 9.8% and 12.4%, respectively. It is difficult to obtain a true estimate, due to
epidemiological studies using different methods of assessment and different definitions of NP[8]. A recent systematic review of epidemiological NP
studies across the world by van Hecke et al. suggests that the prevalence likely lies between 6.9% and 10% in the general population[9].
NP can negatively impact a patient’s quality of life[10],[11],[12],[13]. Patients suffering from chronic NP have higher degrees of anxiety and depression
scores, as well as sleep disturbances, compared with patients with non-neuropathic chronic pain, and patients without chronic pain[10],[14]. A study
by Smith et al. described that the presence of NP was associated with worse health and function[15].
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Information about the common types of peripheral NP and their pharmacological treatments is presented. In addition, the recommendations from
different organisations are highlighted and compared in order to provide healthcare professionals with a global perspective on the treatment of NP.

Sources and selection criteria

Information for this narrative review was collected based on a search of the literature in the following areas: evidence-based guidelines for the
treatment of NP, Cochrane reviews and meta-analyses of the use of different classes of medications used to treat NP. The following databases were
also searched for relevant information: Embase (January 1990–May 2017), PubMed/Medline (January 1990–May 2017) and Cochrane Database of
Systematic Reviews (January 2009–August 2017). Key terms used to search these databases include “neuropathic pain” and “neuropathy”.
References of retrieved articles were scanned for additional relevant studies.

Symptoms, assessment and diagnosis

Peripheral NP is the result of injury to nerve fibres due to various aetiologies including toxic, traumatic, ischaemic, metabolic, infectious or
compressive damage[3]. Positive symptoms are typically altered or painful sensations such as tingling, prickling, or pain described as shooting,
stabbing, burning, or having an electric shock sensation[16]. Negative symptoms are described as diminished sensations due to loss of sensory
function[16]. Patients may also experience allodynia (pain caused by a stimulus that usually does not cause pain), hyperalgesia (increased pain from
a stimulus that normally provokes pain), and anaesthesia dolorosa (pain in an area that is anaesthetic or numb)[17],[18].
The diagnosis of NP is primarily based on patient history and physical examination. The Special Interest Group on Neuropathic Pain (NeuPSIG)
recently updated a grading system to assist with determining the level of certainty that the pain is neuropathic in nature and not related to other
causes[19]. The grading system allows patients to be categorised into “possible”, “probable” and “definite” NP.
For patients to be classified at the possible level, pain distribution must be consistent with suspected lesion or disease, and patient history must be
assessed and associated with NP using validated screening tools (Table 1)[20],[21],[22],[23],[24],[25],[26]. The next level of probable NP is obtained
through clinical examination, particularly focusing on negative sensory signs[19]. “Definite” NP requires an objective diagnostic test to confirm a
lesion or disease that affects the somatosensory nervous system[19]. If a patient is classified with probable or definite NP, consideration should be
given to pharmacologic treatment using clinical guidelines[19].

Table 1: Screening and assessment tools to help differentiate neuropathic pain (NP) from non-NP

Tool Components Additional information

Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic
Symptoms and Signs (LANSS)[21]
Patient symptom self-assessment
Physical exam signs measured by
healthcare professional
Translated and validated in several languages
Not quantitative
S-LANSS (self-report LANSS test) is a modified version that
allows patient to perform physical exam

Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire Self-reported assessment Translated and validated in several languages
(NPQ)[22]
Only tool to incorporate symptoms related to weather changes
Not quantitative
NPQ-SF is a short-form version

Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions Symptoms and physical exam Translated and validated in several languages
(DN4)[23] signs
Not quantitative
One of the few to incorporate itch

painDETECT[24] Patient symptom self-assessment Translated and validated in several languages

Includes radiation of pain in the assessment
Not quantitative
Not as predictive of NP in certain painful conditions

ID Pain[25] Patient symptom self-assessment Translated and validated in several languages

Available to use for free
Short and easy to use
Not quantitative

Standardized Evaluation of Pain Symptoms and physical exam Highest accuracy in diagnosing low back pain compared to
(StEP)[26] signs others in this chart
Not quantitative
Can be completed in 10-15 minutes

Common neuropathic pain conditions

NP has multiple aetiologies. Some of the more common underlying conditions that are associated with NP include diabetic peripheral neuropathy,
HIV-associated neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and trigeminal
neuralgia[16]. Although the aetiologies may vary, the signs and symptoms of NP that patients experience can be similar[8].

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy

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Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects many patients with diabetes. In the UK, the annual incident rate per 10,000 population for
painful diabetic neuropathy was 3.1[27]. Diabetic neuropathy is recognised in patients with diabetes by the presence of peripheral nerve dysfunction
symptoms after other causes have been excluded[28]. Symptoms of this type of neuropathy include numbness, tingling, poor balance, and pain that
is described as burning, having electric shocks sensations, and/or stabbing[28]. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, this type of NP is
thought to be the result of oxidative and inflammatory stress caused by metabolic dysfunction, which ultimately damages the nerve cells[28].
Diabetic neuropathy plays a major role in foot ulcerations, the development of Charcot neuroarthropathy, falls and fractures[28].

HIV-associated sensory peripheral neuropathy

HIV-associated sensory peripheral neuropathy (HIV-SN) is considered the most prevalent neurological complication associated with HIV
infection[29]. This type of neuropathy presents as a distal polyneuropathy in a symmetrical pattern that occurs in patients with both treated and
untreated HIV infections. HIV-SN can be the result of injury to the nerve by the HIV virus itself, or it could be caused by medication-induced
mitochondrial dysfunction of the nerve cells[30]. Risk factors associated with the development of HIV-SN include exposure to neurotoxic
antiretroviral drugs, increasing age, malnutrition, ethnicity, increasing height, certain genetic factors and comorbid conditions such as diabetes[31].

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy

CIPN is the most common neurological cancer treatment complication[30]. It is a dose-dependent, adverse effect associated with chemotherapy
agents such as platinum drugs, vinca alkaloids, bortezomib and taxanes[32]. These agents cause sensory nerve damage in the dorsal root
ganglion[30]. Patients with CIPN describe the spectrum of pain and numbness as symmetric and distal, with a “glove and stocking” distribution. The
symptoms may become progressively worse as chemotherapy is continued[30],[33]. In many cases, CIPN improves once the therapy is discontinued;
however, with cisplatin and oxaliplatin, it may continue even after the drugs have been discontinued[34].

Postherpetic neuralgia
PHN is type of NP that develops when the herpes zoster virus is reactivated. The virus remains latent in the dorsal root ganglion until the patient’s
immunocompetence begins to decrease due to increasing age, HIV infection, cancer or immunosuppressive therapy, at which time the virus can
reactivate[30]. The virus can affect the nerves through sensitisation (hyperexcitability) and deafferentation (sensory nerve death or damage) [30]. Pain
is typically distributed unilaterally along spinal dermatomes or the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve[2]. The annual incidence rate per
10,000 population for post-herpetic neuralgia was 3.4 in the UK[35].

Trigeminal neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is the most frequent cranial neuralgia[36]. In the UK, the incidence of trigeminal neuralgia is reported as 28 per 100,000 person
years observation[35]. Patients with trigeminal neuralgia experience facial pain limited to areas associated with one or more branches of the
trigeminal nerve[2],[36]. The symptoms that patients experience are the result of compression of this nerve by vasculature or tumours. This type of
pain can also be caused by demyelination in patients with multiple sclerosis. Pain attacks begin suddenly and last from several seconds to a couple
of minutes. The pain is usually unilateral in nature and is described as sharp, shooting, shock-like, burning and excruciating[36]. These attacks are
usually accompanied by involuntary spasms or contractions of the facial muscles[36]. Trigeminal neuralgia is usually triggered by non-painful
physical stimulation of a specific area that is located close to the pain[36].

Current treatment options

Patients with NP typically do not respond to traditional analgesics (paracetamol, NSAIDs) or weak opioids because these do not focus on treating
the types of symptoms associated with NP[2]. Many patients do not achieve satisfactory pain relief even with evidence-based treatment, or do not
tolerate effective doses because of adverse effects[16],[37]. In this article, a brief description of the mechanism of action (MOA) for each drug class
is provided, along with UK dosing information. Detailed descriptions of the MOA have been reported in other studies[2],[16]. In addition to dosing
information, adverse effects and precautions/contraindications for medications used in the treatment of NP are presented in Table
2[38],[39],[40],[41],[42],[43],[44],[45],[46],[47],[48],[49].

Table 2. Doses and adverse effects of select medications used for the treatment of neuropathic pain (NP) in adults

Medication Dosing Common Major adverse effects Contraindications/precautions Other

adverse (outside of major adverse
Initial Effective effect(s) effect[s])

Calcium channel α2-delta ligands

Pregabalin[38] 150mg/day, 300– Somnolence, Angioedema, Caution in elderly patients who Adverse
given in either 600mg/day[38] peripheral hepatotoxicity, are cardiovascular effects may be
two or three oedema, rhabdomyolysis, suicidal compromised. Post-marketing more severe in
divided doses weight gain thoughts and behaviour, reports of congestive heart older patients,
seizures with rapid failure. CNS depression lower starting
Dose may be
discontinuation, (caution with activities doses and
increased to
thrombocytopenia requiring mental alertness and more gradual
300mg/day after elderly at risk for falls) titration
an interval of
recommended.
three to seven
days[38] Dose adjust in
renal
Gabapentin[39] Day 1 — 900– Sedation, Drug rash with CNS depression (caution with impairment
300mg once 3,600mg/day[39] peripheral eosinophilia and activities requiring mental
daily oedema, systemic symptoms alertness and elderly at risk for
weight gain (DRESS), suicidal falls)
Day 2 —
thoughts and behaviour,
300mg twice
seizures with rapid
daily discontinuation
Day 3 —
300mg three
times daily[39]

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Table 2. Doses and adverse effects of select medications used for the treatment of neuropathic pain (NP) in adults

Antidepressants – TCA

Amitriptyline[40] 10–25mg/day 25–75mg/day Somnolence, Cardiac abnormalities, Contraindicated in patients with Initiate dose at
anticholinergic heart failure recent myocardial infarction or bedtime
Dose can be Doses above
effects (e.g. exacerbation, QT cardiac rhythm disorders or
increased 10– 100mg should Doses can be
xerostomia, prolongation, stroke, severe liver disease
25mg every be used with urinary seizures, hepatotoxicity, taken once or
three to seven caution[40] Caution in patients with divided into
retention, bone marrow
days as conditions that would be two doses. A
constipation, suppression, suicidal
tolerated[40] exacerbated by anticholinergic single dose
blurred vision, thoughts and behaviour,
effects above 75mg is
mydriasis), mania or hypomania in
Nortriptyline[41] 25mg/day then 75–100mg/day not
fatigue, weight patients with bipolar Do not use concurrently or
gradually adjust gain disorder, neuroleptic recommended
* Manufacturer within 14 days of
levels to syndrome, serotonin discontinuation of an MAOI Risk for
does not
** therapeutic syndrome, severe discontinuation
recommend
benefit[41] hyponatremia, fragility syndrome if
>150mg/day[41]
bone fractures abruptly
Desipramine[42] 25mg at Max dose discontinued
bedtime, then 150mg/daily[42]
*
increase in
** increments of
25mg daily
every three to
seven days to
desired effect[42]

Antidepressant – SNRI

Duloxetine[28],[43] 20– 60–120mg/day Nausea, Stevens-Johnson Contraindicated in patients with Dose-adjust in

30mg/day[28] drowsiness, syndrome, liver disease that results in renal and
in divided dizziness, hepatotoxicity, hepatic impairment, severe hepatic
or doses [28],[43] constipation, hypertensive crisis, renal impairment (CrCL impairment
60mg/day[43] dyspepsia, gastrointestinal <30mL/min) and uncontrolled
May lower
diarrhea, haemorrhage, delirium, hypertension
titrate up to seizure
xerostomia, myocardial infarction,
60mg twice a Do not use concurrently or threshold —
anorexia cardiac arrhythmias,
day within 14 days of gradual
glaucoma, suicidal
thoughts and behaviour, discontinuation of an MAOI tapering is
recommended
Venlafaxine[44] 37.5mg or 75mg 75– Nausea, mania or hypomania in
each day. 225mg/day[44] drowsiness, patients with bipolar Dose adjust in
* disorder, seizures, severe
Increase by dizziness, renal and
** 75mg weekly constipation, hyponatraemia, fragility hepatic
until desired dyspepsia, bone fractures, impairment
effect (max dose diarrhea, neuroleptic syndrome,
of xerostomia, serotonin syndrome Risk for
225mg/daily)[44] anorexia discontinuation
syndrome if
abruptly
discontinued
— taper down
gradually over
two weeks

Topical/local treatment

Lidocaine One to three One to three Local Do not apply to mucous No more than
[45] patches for up patches for up erythema, membranes three patches
5% plaster
to 12 hours to 12 hours rash, itch at at a time.
Use only on intact skin
*** applied to the applied to the application
Must have 12
painful area in a painful area in a site Use with caution in patients
24-hour 24-hour hours
with severe cardiac, renal and/or separation
period[45] period[45] hepatic impairment
between
applications

Capsaicin 8%[46] One to four One to four Pain, Transient increase in Use only on intact skin Application
patches applied patches applied erythema, itch, blood pressure may done by a
to the painful to the painful oedema, occur during and after healthcare
area, repeat area, repeat vesicles, treatment provider. 30
every three every three dryness at minute-
months[46] months[46] application application to
site the feet; 60
minutes to the
rest of the
body; avoid
the face

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 Table 2. Doses and adverse effects of select medications used for the treatment of neuropathic pain (NP) in adults

Botulinum toxin Individualise dosage according to Pain at Contraindicated if known risk

type A[47] response. injection site of hypersensitivity or presence
of infection at injection site
* May repeat every three months[47]
**

Opioids

Tramadol[48],[88] 50mg/daily; 50–100mg four Drowsiness, Confusion, seizures, Risk for

increase weekly times daily nausea, cardiac arrhythmias, diversion,
*
by 50mg/day[88] vomiting, hypertension, Stevens- misuse,
or constipation, Johnson syndrome addiction,
**
100–400mg light- abuse
daily headedness,
Do not use in
(controlled dizziness,
those with a
release)[88] headache
history of
substance
Tapentadol[49] Extended Extended Drowsiness, Respiratory depression, Do not use in patients with GI abuse
release: 50mg, release 50mg, nausea serotonin syndrome obstruction
*
twice daily; twice daily [49]
Vomiting, Seizures, hypertension, Caution: Concurrent use with
may increase
Extended constipation, neonatal opioid benzodiazepines or other CNS
by 50mg/day
release: 100– dizziness withdrawal syndrome depressants
every three days
to a range of 250mg, twice
daily[49] Avoid taking with alcohol
100–250mg
twice daily [49]

*Not indicated in the treatment of NP in the UK.

**Use is not currently included in the labelling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
***Indicated in UK for postherpetic neuralgia only.

Calcium channel α2 -δ subunit ligands

Pregabalin and gabapentin both bind to the calcium channel α2 -δ subunit resulting in decreased central sensitisation and nociceptive
transmission[2],[28]. The onset of action is more rapid in pregabalin and, because of a narrower dosing range, it requires less titration [28]. Pregabalin
is typically not effective at its starting dose of 150mg/day, divided either two or three times daily, so it may be titrated up to 300mg/day after one to
two weeks[38]. An adequate trial duration, in order to assess efficacy, is four weeks[16]. Pregabalin can be increased to 600mg/day if the patient is
tolerating 300mg/day but is experiencing persistent pain, although the larger dose is not necessarily more effective[16].
Gabapentin is started at a dose of 300mg on day one and titrated up to a total daily dose of 1,800–3,600mg. The dose can be increased in increments
of 300mg/day every two to three days. The titration rate should not exceed a total daily dose of 1,800mg/day at the end of week one, 2,400mg/day
at the end of week two, and 3,600mg/day at the end of week three[39]. Equivalent doses given three times a day is optimal, but a higher dose may
be given at bedtime to limit daytime sedation[16]. An adequate trial of gabapentin is between 5 and 10 weeks with at least 2 weeks of therapy at the
maximum tolerated dose[16]. An extended-release form of gabapentin, gabapentin enacarbil, has also been used for NP treatment; however, it is not
available to prescribe on the NHS in the UK.
A systematic review and meta-analysis by Finnerup et al. found that the numbers needed to treat (NNT) for 50% pain relief in patients using
pregabalin and gabapentin were 7.7 and 7.2, respectively[50]. Pregabalin and gabapentin are usually well tolerated[16], but common adverse effects
included somnolence, dizziness, ataxia and fatigue[28]. Aadverse effects, such as peripheral oedema and weight gain, may limit their use. Both
come with a risk of increased suicidal thoughts or behaviours and both should be dose adjusted for patients will renal impairment[16]. Older patients
may be more susceptible to adverse effects from either medication, therefore, lower starting doses and a slower titration is recommended[28].

Antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline and desipramine, achieve their effects by inhibiting norepinephrine reuptake
in the spinal dorsal synapses and have secondary activity at sodium channels[16]. Because of the fewer side effects, nortriptyline and desipramine
are preferred in older patients or in those likely to experience adverse effects[28], however, neither are recommended for use in the UK. Adverse
effects are the main limitations of this class of medications and include somnolence and anticholinergic effects. There is also concern about TCAs
causing possible cardiotoxicity, therefore, caution should be used in patients with known or suspected cardiac disease[28],[40]. TCAs should be
started at low doses (10mg to 25mg/day), at bedtime and can be titrated up to 75mg/day[40]. Patients will usually see the analgesic effect after two
to four weeks of therapy[40].
The review and meta-analysis by Finnerup et al. found that the quality of evidence for the effectiveness of amitriptyline in NP was
moderate[50]. The NNT for amitriptyline was reported as 3.6 [50]. A Cochrane review in 2015 by Moore et al. could not provide good-quality,
unbiased evidence to support the use of amitriptyline in the treatment of NP. The review did not find any lack of efficacy, but the concern was that
there may be an overestimation of treatment effect. It was emphasised that amitriptyline should continue to be used as part of the treatment for NP,
but only a minority of people will experience good pain relief[51].
Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) work to block the presynaptic serotonin and norepinephrine transporter proteins, which
inhibits the reuptake of these neurotransmitters. Duloxetine inhibits the neurotransmitters equally, whereas venlafaxine inhibits only serotonin at
doses less than 150mg/day, but inhibits both serotonin and norepinephrine at higher doses. The combined NNT for both SNRIs was reported as 6.4
(quality of evidence was high) [50]. Both medications are associated with increasing blood pressure and cardiac conduction abnormalities so should
be used cautiously in patients with cardiac disease[43],[44]. Duloxetine is usually dosed at 60–120mg but the incidence of nausea, its most common
adverse effect, may be reduced if patients start at 30mg/day[16],[28],[43].

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One of duloxetine’s adverse effects, anorexia, may cause weight loss that could be advantageous in certain populations. Older patients may
experience more severe adverse effects so it is recommended to start at a low dose and titrate slowly [28]. In painful diabetic neuropathy, duloxetine
had a higher level of evidence of pain reduction compared with venlafaxine [28]. Venlafaxine is dosed between 150 and 225mg/day, and can lower
the seizure threshold[28],[44]. An adequate trial of venlafaxine is four to six weeks [16]. When discontinuing either duloxetine or venlafaxine, doses
should be tapered down gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms[28].

Opioid or opioid-like drugs

Overall, these medications are not recommended as first-line therapy because of concerns about diversion, misuse, opioid-associated overdose,
morbidity and death[2],[16],[50],[52]. These medications should be avoided in those with a history of substance abuse[50]. Tramadol and tapentadol are
more specifically discussed in recent guidelines[28], however, other agents evaluated include oxycodone and morphine. Tramadol, a centrally acting
analgesic, has weak mu-opioid receptor agonist activity and inhibits norepinephrine and serotonin reuptake[2],[16],[28].Tramadol was found to be
effective (NNT: 4.7), but the quality of evidence is moderate [50]. Tramadol is limited by its potential for abuse as mentioned above, even though the
risk is lower compared with other opioids[28].
Tapentadol is another centrally acting opioid analgesic that is a mu-opioid agonist, but also inhibits noradrenaline reuptake [50]. Finnerup et al.
determined that the effectiveness of tapentadol was inconclusive owing to both negative and positive findings with potential biases[50]. The abuse
potential of tapentadol may be similar to other opioids, although because of its low use compared with other opioids, the risk for addiction is
currently unknown. At this time, tapentadol is not a recommended treatment for NP in the UK.
Cochrane reviews have reported low or very low-quality evidence related to the use of strong opioids in the treatment of NP. A 2016 review by
Gaskell et al. reported that three out of the five studies showed a 30% reduction in pain, and no study reported a 50% reduction in pain with
oxycodone[53]. Additional Cochrane reviews reported that there is no evidence for the use of or against hydromorphone, fentanyl, morphine or
buprenorphine in the treatment of NP[54][55][56][57]. These reviews do not provide much evidence because of the limited number of studies that focus
on these medications as treatment for NP, limited participants in the studies, bias and the potential mishandling of dropout information[58].

Topical therapies

For peripheral NP, the meta-analysis by Finnerup et al. emphasised utilising topical treatments as second- or third-line therapies [50]. These include
capsaicin, lidocaine and botulinum toxin type A. Topical therapies are recommended in patients with local NP (e.g. postherpetic neuralgia) and
may be considered first-line therapies for populations such as elderly patients[50] who may have differences in their drug distribution, metabolism
and elimination[59]. Advantages of topical or local therapies include lower systemic drug levels, fewer adverse effects and fewer drug
interactions[60],[61],[62]. Unlike systemic therapies, titration is unnecessary with targeted topical therapies [62].
Capsaicin 8% patches are single application patches that can reduce pain for up to 12 weeks, but must be applied by a healthcare provider in a
clinic with either local anaesthesia or short-acting opioids to reduce pain associated with application[2],[55]. Capsaicin is derived from hot chili
peppers and desensitises TRPV-1 sensory axons over several days to decrease depolarisation, initiation of an action potential and pain signal
transmission[16]. Repeated applications can result in “defunctionalisation” or a long-lasting effect due to reversible degeneration of nerve
terminals[63]. The NNT for the Capsaicin 8% patch was reported to be 10.6, but was also identified as susceptible to publication bias[50]. The long-
term safety of repeated applications of these patches has not been established[50]. Creams are of limited use because they must be applied multiple
times per day and can cause pain for the first few weeks of therapy[16].
Lidocaine, either in 5% patches or gel, acts locally to reduce spontaneous ectopic nerve discharge by antagonising sodium channels[2],[64].
Lidocaine plasters or patches are licensed in the UK, Europe and US for the treatment of post-herpetic neuralgia only[64]. It is also listed on
PrescQIPP DROP-List, as there are cheaper and safer alternatives[65]. Patches can be cut if needed and should be applied to painful sites. Minimal
absorption occurs if hepatic function is normal, but if patients take a Class I arrhythmic medication, systemic absorption should be considered[16].
Titration is not necessary but patients should allow two to four weeks for an adequate trial[16]. Skin reactions at the site of application can be seen.
Evidence for the efficacy in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia is limited[66].
Subcutaneous injections of botulinum toxin type A has shown efficacy for the treatment of peripheral NP[2],[67]. The NNT found with a single
administration of this therapy compared with placebo was 1.9; however, the strength of the recommendation to use this therapy is weak because of
the limited quantity of evidence[50]. Botulinum toxin type A is a neurotoxin that treats focal muscle hyperactivity with repeated administration
locally over six months[2]. Several small trials have studied its use in patients with postherpetic neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia and diabetic
neuropathy with positive results[68],[69],[70][71],[72][73],[74][75].

Other treatments

There are other medications (e.g. selective serotonin receptor inhibitors, other antiepileptics, mexiletine, clonidine and sodium valproate) that have
been evaluated and have shown inconsistent, weak or negative results; had study limitations; or unacceptable adverse effects[50],[76]. Cannabinoid
use for NP has been recommended as a third-line agent in a few select guidelines, but the use of this product is not recommended in the UK for the
treatment of NP pain. It is associated with dizziness, sedation, dry mouth, oral discomfort and gastrointestinal adverse effects[16]. Additionally,
cannabinoids should not be used in patients with a history of heart disease or psychiatric disorders [52]. There is concern and controversy about their
long-term use[16].
Interventional therapies may be considered in select patients with refractory NP if medications fail to provide relief. Spinal cord stimulation is
recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines as a therapy for patients who experience chronic NP for
greater than six months despite standard treatments and have had successful trials with spinal cord stimulation by a specialist[77]. Other
interventional therapies include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, sympathetic nerve blocks and steroid injections[2].
Nonpharmacological treatments have also been suggested to help patients suffering from NP. In general, nonpharmacologial treatments are
considered safe and may decrease pain, decrease the use of medications and help increase function[16]. They may also aid in improving the
patient’s overall quality of life[16]. A Cochrane review did not find sufficient evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise in NP. However, it
did state that there were several small trials that have shown exercise may help patients with muscle strength, functional ability and
fatigue[78]. Recommendations for exercise in patients with NP include both aerobic and strengthening exercises[78].
Psychotherapy is another nonpharmacological treatment that has received attention for helping patients with NP. Cognitive behavioural therapy is a
type of psychotherapy that uses methods to assess biases associated with pain and avoiding unpleasant thoughts [79]. A Cochrane review focused on
psychotherapy as a treatment for NP found insufficient evidence on the efficacy or safety of psychotherapy[79]. Other nonpharmacological
treatments include physical therapy and occupational therapy.

Combination treatments

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Combination therapies are often used in patients with NP who have either failed to have a response, or only had a partial response to
monotherapy[16]. In theory, utilising lower doses of different classes of drugs may help alleviate or prevent adverse drug effects that are seen with
higher doses of monotherapy. Studies have focused on the use of combination therapies and have found mixed results[50]. A meta-analysis of two
studies did find that a combination of gabapentin with an opioid were superior to monotherapy (or placebo), but the combination of the two
medications were associated with higher drop-out rates due to adverse effects [80]. A large study that focused on comparing duloxetine and
pregabalin at high doses as monotherapy to lower doses in combination did not show any difference in efficacy or side effects [81]. Owing to the
limited number of studies, there is not much available evidence that supports specific combinations of medications for NP[80].

Future treatments

Researchers continue to seek new treatments for NP. There are new voltage-gated sodium channel blockers that are receptor specific and may have
less risk of cardiac, motor and central nervous system adverse effects[2],[82]. A new selective angiotensin type 2-receptor antagonist, EMA401, has
been used in trials including one that focused on treating patients with postherpetic neuralgia[83]. Additional medications that are being evaluated
include acetyl-L-carnitine and alpha-lipoic-acid[82]. A review of stem cell therapy focused on preclinical data suggested that adult stem cell therapy
in patients with NP showed positive effects, with peripheral appearing to be more responsive than central NP[84].
Personalised pain therapy is another approach that can provide patients with the most effective treatment for NP. The phenotype-based
classification system focuses on categorising patients by mechanisms responsible for NP rather than aetiology[2],[37]. By focusing on patients’
profiles of signs and symptoms, researchers can identify treatment responders. Several phenotypes have been identified and are associated with a
positive response to various treatments[2]. Studies that focus on genetics and subgrouping patients based on their phenotypes may play an important
role in the future of personalised pain management for NP [2].

Guidelines for NP treatment

Guidelines and recommendations presented by key organisations around the world focus on NP in general or on specific types of NP. The
following recommendations from each organisation are designed to help healthcare practitioners select appropriate pharmacologic treatment for
patients with NP. In addition to the recommendations listed in this article, there are also local guidelines available to help guide therapy for NP.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

NICE provided recommendations for treating patients with NP in non-specialist settings in 2013, which were updated in February 2017[18]. In
September 2017, it was decided that these guidelines did not require updating futher at this time.
First-line treatments for NP include a choice of monotherapy with amitriptyline, duloxetine, gabapentin or pregabalin (see Table 3)[18]. If a patient
does not experience effective results, or if the medications cannot be tolerated, then it is recommended to choose one of the three remaining first-
line therapies. If a patient does not respond, then trials with the other first-line agents should be initiated. Tramadol may be considered for short-
term, acute rescue therapy, but long-term use is not recommended unless advised by a pain specialist[18]. For patients with painful diabetic
neuropathy, the first-line choice is duloxetine, unless contraindicated (see Table 4)[18]. Capsaicin cream may be used for localised NP if a patient
cannot tolerate the oral first-line agents. NICE also recommends carbamazepine for the first-line treatment of trigeminal neuralgia [18]. These
recommendations are based on high- or moderate-quality RCTs and cost-effectiveness.

Table 3. Recommended first- and second-line pharmacologic agents for general peripheral neuropathic pain from selected
organisations

Therapy National Institute for Health and Care Canadian Pain Society (CPS) [87] Neuropathic Pain Special Interest
Excellence (NICE) [18] Group (NeuPSIG)[50]

UK Canada International

Published 2013, updated 2017 Published 2014 Published 2015

First-line Amitriptyline Gabapentin Gabapentin

pharmacotherapy
Duloxetine Pregabalin Gabapentin XR or enacarbil
Gabapentin Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) Pregabalin
Pregabalin Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake SNRIs-duloxetine or venlafaxine*
inhibitors (SNRIs)
TCA**

Second-line Capsaicin cream Tramadol Tramadol

pharmacotherapy
Short-term tramadol for acute rescue Controlled-release opioids Capsaicin 8% patch****
only***
Lidocaine patch

Third-line Cannabinoids
pharmacotherapy

Fourth-line Topical lidocaine

pharmacotherapy

*Duloxetine is the most studied SNRI and, therefore, recommended.

**Doses ≥75mg of amitriptyline, imipramine or dopamine are not recommended for patients ≥65 years.
***Long-term use of tramadol should not be used in non-specialist settings unless advised by a specialist.
****Long-term safety of repeated applications of high-concentration capsaicin patches has not been established.

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 Table 4. Recommended pharmacologic agents for specific peripheral neuropathic pain conditions from selected organisations

Specific neuropathic National Institute for Health Canadian Pain American Academy of American Diabetes American Society of
pain conditions and Care Excellence (NICE)
[18] Society Neurology (AAN)[76] Association Clinical Oncology[33]
(CPS)[87] (ADA)[28]

United Kingdom Canada International; United United States United States

States

Published 2013, updated 2017 Published 2014 Published 2011, Published 2017 Published 2014
reaffirmed 2016

Trigeminal First-line: First-line:

neuralgia
Carbamazepine Carbamazepine
Second-line:
Topical
lidocaine

Diabetic Level A: Level A:

neuropathic pain
Pregabalin Pregabalin
Level B: Duloxetine
Venlafaxine Level B:
Duloxetine Gabapentin
Amitriptyline TCAs
Gabapentin
Valproate
Opioids
Capsaicin
Isosorbide nitrate
spray

Chemotherapy- Duloxetine
induced (moderate
neuropathic pain recommendation)

As for other therapies, the guideline development group also states that treatment with cannabis sativa extract, capsaicin patch, lacosamide,
lamotrigine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, topiramate, venlafaxine and opioids (e.g. morphine) should not be started without being recommended
by a pain specialist[18]. The group states that although combination therapy is commonly prescribed, there is a lack of evidence showing tolerability
and cost-effectiveness with various drug combinations[18].

Neuropathic Pain Special Interest Group (NeuPSIG) of the International Association for the Study of Pain

This special interest group provides guidelines that cover the assessment[85], the interventional management [86] and the pharmacological
management of NP[50]. In 2015, NeuPSIG revised its recommendations for the pharmacotherapy of NP after performing a systematic review and
meta-analysis of RCTs in patients with this condition[50].
For general NP, NeuPSIG strongly recommends the use of duloxetine, extended-release gabapentin, gabapentin, pregabalin, venlafaxine and TCAs
as options for first-line therapies (Table 3)[50]. Duloxetine has been studied more, and is the preferred choice of SNRIs [50]. NeuPSIG also
recommends that TCAs not be used in doses greater than 75mg in patients aged 65 years and older because of the adverse effect profile and the
potential risk for falls in this patient population [50].
NeuPSIG also has weak recommendations for treating peripheral NP with capsaicin 8% patches and lidocaine patches, although it does caution that
not much is known about the safety of long-term use of capsaicin. Strong opioids are now recommended as a third-line agent because of the
potential risk for abuse, overdose, mortality, diversion and misuse[50].
NeuPSIG listed recommendations against the use of some pharmacological therapies to treat NP. It provided a weak recommendation against the
use of cannabinoids in NP because of negative results, potential misuse, diversion and long-term mental health risk in susceptible individuals[50].
NeuPSIG also provided a weak recommendation against the use of valproate and a strong recommendation against the use of levetiracetam and
mexiletine[50]. Many therapies (e.g. combination therapy, SSRIs, capsaicin cream etc.) were found to be inconclusive[50].

Canadian Pain Society

In 2014, the Canadian Pain Society (CPS) updated guidelines that provided healthcare providers with an evidence-based approach to managing
patients suffering from NP. The organisation presented NP management in a stepwise approach. Gabapentinoids, TCAs and SNRIs individually are
considered first-line treatments (Table 3)[87]. The CPS also states that if a first-line agent only provides partial relief, it is reasonable to add another
first-line agent for combination therapy[87]. Although the CPS does not have any recommendations regarding specific drug combination
pharmacotherapy for NP, it does emphasise that this practice may be beneficial[87].
Second-line agents for NP include tramadol and opioid analgesics[87]. When prescribing these medications, caution should be used because of their
extensive side-effect profiles and risk of addiction, misuse and abuse. Patients on these medications should also be monitored (strong
recommendation)[87] and providers should consult the Canadian Guidelines for the Safe and Effective Use of Opioids for Chronic Noncancer
Pain[88]. The CPS also states that cannabinoids are considered a third-line agent for NP, but require judicious prescribing practices and close
monitoring[87]. Fourth-line agents for NP include topical lidocaine, methadone, tapentadol, lacosamide, lamotrigine and topiramate [87].
The CPS also provides recommendations specifically for PHN. Carbamazepine is considered first-line therapy for this condition and topical
lidocaine is a second-line agent[87].
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American Academy of Neurology, American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and
American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) published an evidence-based guideline that focused on the efficacy of treatment to reduce pain and
improve quality of life in patients with painful diabetic neuropathy in 2011[76]. In 2016, the guideline developers reaffirmed the 2011 findings.
Pregabalin was found by the AAN to have the strongest evidence in support of efficacy to treat painful diabetic neuropathy (see Table 4)[76] as it
lessened the pain, caused less sleep interference and improved quality of life. Additional medications from various classes also showed probable
efficacy and could be considered for the treatment of diabetes-related NP (Table 4)[76].
AAN recommends against the use of sodium valproate and opioids in NP. The use of capsaicin may be limited because many patients experience
side effects such as burning[76].

American Diabetes Association

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) reports that neither glycemic control nor lifestyle management provide effective relief from NP and
that pharmacotherapy is necessary to control symptoms[28]. In the most recent 2017 position statement, the ADA supports the use of pregabalin and
duloxetine to treat NP in patients with diabetes (see Table 4)[28]. This recommendation received its highest level of evidence, a Level A rating,
which is based on large well-designed trials and/or meta-analyses. Gabapentin received a Level B recommendation as an initial approach to NP
treatment with cautions concerning comorbidities and potential drug interactions[28].
Even though the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve TCAs for treating NP, the ADA states that these medications could
also be effective in treating this condition (Level B). The ADA does not recommend the use of opioids, including tramadol or tapentadol as first- or
second-line therapies for NP in patients with diabetes because of the high risk of addiction and complications (Level E)[28].

American Society of Clinical Oncology

The American Society of Clinical Oncology has provided evidence-based recommendations to assist healthcare professionals with the prevention
and treatment of CIPN in adult patients. Their recommendations are based on a systematic literature search that focused on the incidence and
severity of neuropathy, patient-reported outcomes and the patient’s quality of life. After reviewing 48 RCTs, the American Society of Clinical
Oncology was only able to support a moderate recommendation for the use of duloxetine in patients with CIPN. The data were associated with
patients who were experiencing neuropathy related to oxaliplatin or paclitaxel therapy [33].

Discussion
A side-by-side comparison of the recommendations reveal that there is little variation on first- and second-line therapies to treat NP. Most
recommendations for first- and second-line treatments are based on antidepressants and antiepileptic medications[18],[28],[33],[50],[54],[76]. Opioid use
remains controversial and is generally not recommended as first-line treatment[18],[28],[33],[50],[76]. The evidence to support the use of opioids is
lacking, and many organisations state concerns about long-term safety. Adverse effects related to many of these medications can also be very
limiting in certain patient populations (e.g. TCAs in elderly patients).
Even with these evidence-based recommendations, pain control in patients with NP continues to be a challenge. The goal for most cases of NP is to
make the pain tolerable, not necessarily eliminate the pain[87]. Clinically important pain reduction is considered to be a 30% reduction (moderate
relief) and 50% reduction (substantial relief)[89]. In patients who are receiving a first-line agent for NP, the pain control may be weak or
modest[50],[52]. These medications are estimated to provide pain relief of 40–50%[81]. Epidemiological studies have shown that many times, patients
do not receive the treatment that they need to control NP[14],[86],[90]. There are many factors that may contribute to the under-treatment of this type
of pain, including not recognising NP or not using first-line medications to treat the pain[91].
Finally, there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials identifying new therapeutic approaches with improved efficacy and tolerability to treat NP.
One issue that limits the progress of studies is the risk of high placebo effect[81]. Placebo response in studies can contribute to the underestimation
of the treatments effects[92]. While placebo responses increase and drug responses remain the same, the therapeutic advantage is
diminished[92]. Studies have shown a correlation between higher placebo response rates and certain types of NP. HIV-related NP has high placebo
response[93]. Patients with peripheral NP were found to have higher levels of placebo response compared with patients with central
NP[93],[94]. Patients with diabetic neuropathy compared with postherpetic neuralgia also demonstrated higher placebo response[68],[69]. Factors that
were found to have lower placebo responses included male patients, increased age, higher baseline pain intensity and longer durations of NP[94].

Future paradigms
Since the effectiveness of pain management for patients with NP is limited, future studies are needed to support new treatment approaches.
Furthermore, as pain management should be multi-modal, trials focusing on combination pharmacotherapy treatments to provide strong evidence
for efficacy and tolerability are also required. Advances have been made to help identify patients suffering from true NP, with the use of validated
screening tools and staging to help reduce diagnostic heterogeneity[37],[50]. Emphasis should also be placed on mechanism-based treatment
strategies by identifying responders through phenotyping [16],[19],[50],[52]. These suggestions may be considered during the design and
implementations of future trials in NP.

Conclusion
NP is a condition that affects the quality of life of many patients. Because of the complexity of this disorder, NP is often difficult to treat
effectively. A comparison of NP treatment guidelines from various sources reveals that the preferred classes of medications recommended are
consistent. At this time, the recommend treatments for general peripheral NP are amitriptyline, duloxetine, pregabalin and gabapentin as first-line
therapies. When using these medications it is important to be cognisant of the patient’s renal function, age and other comorbidities that could
impact medication selection. Patients who receive pharmacotherapy for NP can expect a reduction in pain, but the majority do not experience
complete pain relief.

Author disclosures and conflicts of interests:

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organisation or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict
with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. No writing assistance was used in the production of this manuscript.

9/13
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Citation: Clinical Pharmacist, December 2017, Vol 9, No 12, online | DOI: 10.1211/CP.2017.20203641

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