An observational comparative study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pregabalin and gabapentin in neuropathic pain- at a Teritiary Care Centre

Background: Millions of people around the world suffer from Neuropathic pain (Nep), a prevalent and debilitating condition. Treatment for NeP typically includes anticonvulsants, antidepressants, opioids, topical medications, and local anesthetics. Although Pregabalin and Gabapentin are commonly used for this purpose, there is a lack of conclusive evidence supporting their efficacy. NeP significantly diminishes patients' quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Gabapentin and Pregabalin in treating patients with NeP. 

Methods: Among a total of 100 patients 50 patients (Group A) were given Gabapentin and 50 Patients (Group B) were given Pregabalin. The efficacy of drug was measured on the basis of decrease in NeP based on Douleur Neuropathique 4 questions (DN4) pain scale measured at baseline, after one month and after two months. Adverse drug reaction (ADR) reported by the patient or observed by the clinician during the study was reported using ADR reporting form. 

Result: The mean reduction of the neuropathic pain score in Group A from baseline to 2 months was 2.15, while in Group B it was 3.49. Hence, pregabalin showed comparable pain reduction to gabapentin at the end of the 2-months study.

Conclusion: Pregabalin 100 mg once daily brought better improvement of symptoms and signs than Gabapentin 300 mg administered once daily. The study found that Pregabalin is a better drug for the treatment of neuropathic pain than Gabapentin. Gabapentin had fewer adverse effects than Pregabalin.