Efficacy and safety of pregabalin for treatment of neuropathic pain in hemodialysis patients

Higuchi Terumi, Yamazaki Toshio, Mizuno Mari, Okawa Erina, Setoguchi Harumi, Yoshizawa Mika, Nakajima Shiori, Yanagisawa Junko, Enomoto Shinichi, Ishikawa Yumiko, Ando Hideyuki

doi:10.4009/jsdt.45.559

Objective: To investigate the safety and efficacy of pregabalin in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain undergoing maintenance dialysis. Subjects：A pain questionnaire was conducted in patients undergoing maintenance dialysis at this facility or its associated clinic, of whom 137 persons fulfilled the inclusion criteria, and consent was obtained from 32 subjects with peripheral neuropathic pain. The subjects were 20 men and 12 women, with a mean age of 69 years and a mean dialysis time of 92 months. Methods: Patients with peripheral neuropathic pain were treated with an initial dose of pregabalin at 25mg, and, thereafter, surveyed with a questionnaire, an SF-8, a VAS scale, and given HS-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) tests at Weeks 2, 4, and 8. The dose was increased up to a maximum of 75mg depending on the patient. Results: Twelve subjects discontinued because of dizziness, lightheadedness, or a lack of efficacy. Seven subjects continued at 25mg, 6 at 50mg, and 7 at 75mg. While significant reductions were noted 8 weeks after the start based on the questionnaire results, the VAS scale, and the SF-8 as compared to before the study initiation, a significant difference was not noted with HS-CRP. Also, some patients complained of drowsiness or dizziness as adverse reactions; however, no serious adverse drug reactions were noted. Conclusions: If side effects are carefully watched for with pregabalin administration and the doses used are prudently decided upon, the efficacy of this agent for peripheral neuropathic pain can be expected.

Efficacy and safety of pregabalin for treatment of neuropathic pain in hemodialysis patients

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