Adjuvant analgesics for the treatment of neuropathic pain: Evaluating efficacy a

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J Fam Pract. 2007 Feb;56(2):3-12.

Adjuvant analgesics for the treatment of neuropathic pain:

Evaluating efficacy and safety profiles.

Forde G.

New York University School of Medicine; North Shore Pain Services,

Valley Stream, NY USA.

Because chronic pain affects multiple aspects of living, accurate

multidimensional diagnosis is a prerequisite for effective chronic

pain management. A comprehensive evaluation should address medical,

physical, and psychosocial issues. Patient self-report is the most

reliable indicator of the existence and intensity of pain and is a

key component of chronic pain assessment. Nonsteroidal anti-

inflammatory agents are relatively ineffective in the management of

neuropathic pain. Duloxetine, gabapentin, lidocaine patch 5%,

opioids, pregabalin, tramadol, and tricyclic antidepressants are the

mainstay of treatment for neuropathic pain. Combination therapy is

usually necessary for effective reduction of pain.