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Valproic acid has no effect on pain in polyneuropathy: a randomized, controlled trial
Marit Otto1, Flemming W Bach, Troels S Jensen
1Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark. maritotto@dadlnet.dk
Neurology
|January 28, 2004
Summary
Valproic acid did not significantly relieve painful polyneuropathy in this study. Pain levels were similar between patients taking valproic acid and those taking a placebo.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Painful polyneuropathy is a debilitating condition.
- Effective treatments for painful polyneuropathy are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of valproic acid in treating painful polyneuropathy.
Main Methods:
- Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study.
- 31 patients received valproic acid (1,500 mg daily) or placebo for 4 weeks.
- Pain was assessed using patient ratings.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in total pain ratings between valproic acid and placebo groups (p = 0.24).
- Individual pain ratings also showed no significant differences.
Conclusions:
- Valproic acid is not effective in relieving painful polyneuropathy.
- Further research into alternative treatments for painful polyneuropathy is warranted.