The efficacy and initial dose of pregabalin for neuropathic pain

Abstract

Aim: Pregabalin (PGB) is the first-line agent for neuropathic pain. It has been reported that PGB at 150 mg daily is generally ineffective. We aimed to assess the efficacy of PGB using a low initial dose. Methods: The initial dose of PGB for neuropathic pain was 50 mg. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was assessed before administration and at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 2 months, 3 months, and 6 months after administration. PGB was increased every 1 or 2 weeks until side effects developed or until patients expected no increase in quality. Results: We recruited 88 patients with a mean age of 71±10 years. At all measurement points, the dose of PGB was significantly increased, and VAS dosage was significantly decreased compared to that before administration. The dose of PGB at 2 weeks after administration was 75±34 mg. Conclusion: This study indicates that PGB at even less than 100 mg has a significant analgesic effect on patients with neuropathic pain.