Pharmacologic management of chronic neuropathic pain: Review of the Canadian Pain Society consensus statement.

Journal: Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
Published:
Abstract

Objective: To provide family physicians with a practical clinical summary of the Canadian Pain Society (CPS) revised consensus statement on the pharmacologic management of neuropathic pain.

Methods: A multidisciplinary interest group within the CPS conducted a systematic review of the literature on the current treatments of neuropathic pain in drafting the revised consensus statement.

Results: Gabapentinoids, tricyclic antidepressants, and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are the first-line agents for treating neuropathic pain. Tramadol and other opioids are recommended as second-line agents, while cannabinoids are newly recommended as third-line agents. Other anticonvulsants, methadone, tapentadol, topical lidocaine, and botulinum toxin are recommended as fourth-line agents.

Conclusions: Many pharmacologic analgesics exist for the treatment of neuropathic pain. Through evidence-based recommendations, the CPS revised consensus statement helps guide family physicians in the management of patients with neuropathic pain.

Authors
Alex Mu, Erica Weinberg, Dwight Moulin, Hance Clarke
Relevant Conditions

Chronic Pain, Neuralgia