The Use of Transdermal Buprenorphine for Acute Postherpetic Neuralgia: A Case Report

The purpose of this study is to report a case in which standard medication protocols for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) led to adverse effects and insufficient results. The dead end that occurred in association with the patient’s deteriorating general condition and hesitation to comply with oral medication due to fear led to the application of transdermal buprenorphine (TDB) after written informed consent was obtained. TDB application in acute cases is still under study, and the literature is limited. A 78-year-old female presenting with intense PHN was treated with pregabalin and paracetamol but complained of inadequate pain control and intense somnolence. TDB 35 μg/hour was applied after written consent was given. Six hours later, the situation improved, while five days later, the patient recovered completely. The patch was removed on the sixth day after application. In the follow-up after two weeks, no neuropathic symptoms or adverse effects were reported. The optimal results of TDB application were substantially represented by excellent and continuous pain control, improved quality of life, and patient compliance due to the pharmacological properties of buprenorphine and easy patch application. The patient’s rapid response to TDB’s soothing action is an encouraging factor for its application in studies regarding PHN and acute pain attacks in general.