Topical Analgesics for Neuropathic Pain
An evidence-informed guide for the practicing clinician.
Topical Analgesics for Neuropathic Pain: An Evidence-Informed Guide for the Practicing Clinician*
Abstract
Objective
To evaluate available evidence for the efficacy and safety of topical analgesics for neuropathic pain and to offer treatment guidance.
Methods
An expert panel searched PubMed (Medline) and reference lists of published articles for available literature assessing 8 categories of topical analgesics used to treat various neuropathic pain conditions. The panel rated the level of analgesic efficacy evidence for each treatment based on considerations of safety, ease of use, and cost. The degree of consensus on the recommendations among the panelists was measured.
Results
There was strong evidence and high consensus that capsaicin 8% is effective for diabetic peripheral neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia and that lidocaine is effective for postherpetic neuralgia. There was strong evidence and moderate consensus that capsaicin 8% could be effective for HIV-induced neuropathy. There was moderate evidence and high consensus that lidocaine is likely effective for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, idiopathic neuropathy, and postsurgical neuropathy and that capsaicin 8% might be effective for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and complex regional pain syndrome. Evidence was weak for other topical medications, though the panel strongly agreed that antidepressants might help with postherpetic neuralgia, complex regional pain syndrome, postsurgical neuropathy, and post-traumatic neuropathy; that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs could help with postsurgical neuropathy; and that gabapentin might benefit vulvodynia. There was less agreement about whether antidepressants might benefit diabetic peripheral neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and vulvodynia and whether capsaicin 8% could be effective for postsurgical neuropathy.
Conclusions
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Topical Analgesics for Neuropathic Pain: An Evidence-Informed Guide for the Practicing Clinician
*This guideline was made possible through unrestricted grants from Averitas Pharma and Scilex Holding.
Join Dr. Priyanka Singla, MD, and Dr. Hance Clarke, MD, PhD, FRCPC—members of the expert panel behind the latest AAPM topical analgesics consensus guidelines—for an in-depth look at non-systemic treatment strategies for neuropathic pain. This CME-accredited webinar explores the clinical evidence, safety, and applications of topical agents, including capsaicin, lidocaine, antidepressants, and cannabinoids, for the management of conditions such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy and post-herpetic neuralgia. Gain practical insights to improve patient outcomes with lower-risk, patient-preferred treatment options.
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