The evidence of benefits in using opioids to treat neuropathic pain is not clear however some individuals find them beneficial. OpioidsĮxamples: codeine, dihydrocodeine and morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl, buprenorphine Being prescribed an antidepressant does not mean that you have or you are at risk of developing depression.Ĭommon side effects: drowsiness and dry mouth.
Primarily used for depression, this group of drugs has also been found to have an effect on managing nerve pain. The drug carbamazipine is usually used for people with a diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia.Ĭommon side effects: drowsiness, dizziness and headaches Antidepressants Being prescribed an antiepileptic medication does not mean you have or you are at risk of developing epilepsy. Primarily used for the treatment of epilepsy, these drugs can also reduce nerve pain and ease neuropathic symptoms. Here is a brief outline of the most common treatments: Anti-epileptics
Regular painkillers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs (for example ibuprofen, aspirin and paracetamol) are usually not effective for neuropathic pain. There are various treatments available for neuropathic pain and often it is a ‘trial and error’ process to find the best option for an individual. Individuals with chronic neuropathic pain may be referred to a pain clinic for assessment, management and advice on living with chronic pain.Įvery person is different and your doctor will take into consideration your needs so as to suggest the most suitable treatment for you. The primary goals of treatment for neuropathic pain are to manage the pain as much as possible and to minimise the negative side effects of the treatment. Occasionally no identifiable cause is found which can be distressing for the individual experiencing the pain.Ĭhronic neuropathic pain is common and may be related to an underlying health condition such as cancer or diabetic neuropathy, or it could be related to treatments such as chemotherapy. It may also be a side effect of certain medications. What causes neuropathic pain?Ĭommon causes of neuropathic pain include nerve pressure or nerve damage after surgery or trauma, viral infections, cancer, vascular malformations, alcoholism, neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis and metabolic conditions such as diabetes. Some people may find it hard to wear thick clothes as even slight pressure can aggravate the pain. Symptoms of neuropathic pain may also include excruciating pain, pins and needles, difficulty correctly sensing temperatures and numbness. The pain is usually described as a burning sensation and affected areas are often sensitive to the touch. Neuropathic pain is caused by damage or injury to the nerves that transfer information between the brain and spinal cord from the skin, muscles and other parts of the body. Healthcare professionals Expand dropdown.Information and support Expand dropdown.Organise your own event Expand dropdown.Patient and carers' events Expand dropdown.Living with a neurological problem Expand dropdown.Seeking a diagnosis and care Expand dropdown.
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