Efficacy and safety of pregabalin in neuropathic cancer pain: a randomized control multicentre trial

Objective To examine the efficacy and safety of pregabalin in patients with neuropathic cancer pain (NCP). Methods A prospective randomized control multicenter trial was conducted in five hospitals; from January 2015 to January 2016, one hundred and twenty two eligible inpatients and outpatients were divided into pregablin treatment group (n=60) and control group (n=62). Patients in the pregablin group added pregablin to opiod background analgesia, while those in the control group raised opioid dose instead. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NRS) scores, paraesthesia scale scores, Hamilton's Depression (HAMD) scale scores, analgesia dose, patiends satisfaction, and adverse events were recorded 14 d after each treatment. Results After each treatment, the NRS scores were decreased by (2.3±1.1) and (1.3±1.5), the paraesthesia scale scores were decreased by (1.6±0.6) and (0.4±0.3), and the HAMD scale scores were decreased by (4.4±1.2) and (2.4±1.0) in thepregablin treatment group and control group, respectively, with significant differences (P<0.05). Morphine dose for breakthrough pain in pregabalin group was statistically less than that in control group ([30.6±3.5] mg/d vs. [70.9±12.3] mg/d, P<0.05). Patients satisfaction in the pregablin treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Pregabalin treatment group had less severe adverse effects (3/56, 5%) as compared with control group (10/59, 16.1%, P<0.05). Conclusion Pregabalin has positive roles in patients with NCP already receiving opioid; pregabalin has better pain-control and mood improvement. Key words: Neuropathic cancer pain; Pregabalin; Opioid