A study on efficacy of Pregabalin in acute Herpetic Neuralgia

BACKGROUND: Herpes zoster is an intractable painful condition. The pain during first thirty days of onset is known as acute herpetic neuralgia. Multiple treatments using NSAIDS, opioids and tricyclic antidepressants are available but the role of pregabalin in acute Herpetic Neuralgia is not assessed in any of Indian studies. PURPOSE: This study was aimed to determine efficacy and safety of Pregabalin in reducing pain of acute Herpetic Neuralgia. METHODS: In this placebo-controlled 4 week trial including 45 subjects, 23 patients received Pregabalin in the dosage of 150 mg/day in divided doses and 22 patients received placebo within 72 hours of onset of Herpes zoster. RESULTS: Subjects receiving Pregabalin had a statistically significant reduction (p<0.0001) in visual analogue scale(VAS) score as compared to placebo, indicating the efficacy of Pregabalin in the treatment of acute pain associated with Herpes zoster. Side effects most commonly noted were somnolence and dizziness. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that Pregabalin is effective in relieving pain of acute Herpetic Neuralgia.