Comparative study of efficacy and safety of pregabalin and gabapentin for treatment of neuropathic pain in oral cavity cancer patients: a comparative, randomized and prospective study

Sreeharsh Saji; Yogendra Singhal; Surendra Kumar Pingoliya

doi:10.18203/2319-2003.ijbcp20241648

Authors

Sreeharsh Saji Department of Palliative Medicine, SMS Medical College Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Yogendra Singhal Department of Palliative Medicine, SMS Medical College Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Surendra Kumar Pingoliya Department of Palliative Medicine, SMS Medical College Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2319-2003.ijbcp20241648

Keywords:

Gabapentin, Oral cancer, Pain, Palliative care, Pregabalin

Abstract

Background: Pain in patients with oral cancers can limit the normal functioning and quality of life. Neuropathic pain raises the anxiety and depression levels, increases the morbidity and decreases the efficiency to work. Neuropathic pain is frequently diagnosed as a complication of cancer pain due to direct invasion of nerves, plexus or compression, and side effect of chemotherapy, radiation injury or surgery.

Methods: A total of 60 patients were divided randomly into two groups based on treatment: group P (pregabalin) and group G (gabapentin). The intensity of pain was measured using visual analog scale (VAS) and DN4 questionnaire (Douleur Neuropathique 4) was used to evaluate neuropathic component. Changes in pain score and neuropathic component was assessed at 2^nd and 4^th week of follow up. Data was collected and analysed using SPSS 20.0 software at level of significance being p<0.05.

Results: At baseline, the mean±SD of VAS score in group P was 7.20±0.79; in group G was 7.13±0.66. At 2^nd week, the mean±SD of VAS score in group P was 4.5±0.91; in group G was 4.46±0.88. At 4^th week, the mean±SD of VAS score in group P was 3.66±0.69; in group G was 3.83±0.85. At baseline, the mean±SD of DN4 score in group P was 7.13±0.80; in group G was 6.93±0.85. At 2^nd week, the mean±SD of DN4 score in group P was 4.73±0.92; in group G was 4.46±0.82. At 4th week, the mean±SD of DN4 score in group P was 3.73±0.42; in group G was 3.93±0.62.

Conclusions: Pregabalin was found to be more effective with lesser side effects than gabapentin.

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