[Retrospective evaluation of pregabalin for cancer-related neuropathic pain].

BACKGROUND

Evidence to support the use of pregabalin in combination with opioid analgesics for the treatment of cancer-related neuropathic pain is limited.

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective investigation on patients hospitalized in our department with cancer-related neuropathic pain and under pregabalin treatment. Patients were divided into two groups: A group (= < 300 mg pregabalin daily) and B group (> 300 mg pregabalin daily). The two groups were compared in terms of a suite of factors (e. g., age starting and maimtenance dose of pregabaline, adverse effect).

RESULTS

Patient's age was significantly lower in the B group (> 300 mg pregabalin daily). Of the total number of patients involved in the study, 67% experienced mild and moderate somnolence.

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective investigation, we conclude that the younger cancer patients may need lager doses of pregabalin to relieve cancer-related neuropathic pain. In addition, the mild and moderate somnolence occurs frequently when pregabalin is administered with opioid analgesics for the treatment of cancer-related neuropathic pain.