Gapapentin For Neuropathic Pain
To treat postherpetic neuralgia and partial onset seizures, the Food and Drug Administration has approved gabapentin (Neurontin). Clinical investigations on patients with diabetic neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia have shown that daily doses of gabapentin between 2400 and 3600 milligrams (mg) are equally effective as doses of tricyclic antidepressants or carbamazepine in relieving pain. The growing evidence supporting its efficacy in treating neuropathic pain has led to its widespread application. Gabapentin's mechanism of action and site of action remain mysterious. Gabapentin is well-tolerated, has a wide dosing range, has few drug interactions, and does not necessitate regular blood tests for its administration. However, for certain people, the expense may be prohibitive. Patients who would benefit from gabapentin should have a well-defined case of neuropathic pain, manifesting as piercing, stabbing, lancinating, or burning pain that travels along a nerve root (radicular) o