Neuropathic pain in adults: pharmacological management in non-specialist settings

Excerpt

This guideline covers managing neuropathic pain (nerve pain) with pharmacological treatments (drugs) in adults in non-specialist settings. It aims to improve quality of life for people with conditions such as neuralgia, shingles and diabetic neuropathy by reducing pain and promoting increased participation in all aspects of daily living. The guideline sets out how drug treatments for neuropathic pain differ from traditional pain management.

MHRA advice on valproate: In April 2018, we added warnings that valproate must not be used in pregnancy, and only used in girls and women when there is no alternative and a pregnancy prevention plan is in place. This is because of the risk of malformations and developmental abnormalities in the baby. See update information for details. The MHRA has published temporary advice on the valproate pregnancy prevention programme during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MHRA advice on pregabalin and gabapentin: In July 2019, we updated footnotes in this guideline to reflect a change in the law relating to pregabalin and gabapentin. As of 1 April 2019, because of a risk of abuse and dependence, pregabalin and gabapentin are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 as class C substances and scheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 as schedule 3.

Who is it for?:

1. Healthcare professionals

2. Adults with neuropathic pain, their families and carers