[Pregabalin and gabapentin in multiple sclerosis: clinical experiences and therapeutic implications]

Due to a plethora of additional symptoms patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) receive symptomatic treatment besides disease-modifying therapies. Among the substances which are commonly used are ion channel modulators (e. g. pregabalin, gabapentin, carbamazepine). The aim of this study was to investigate the use of these drugs in clinical practice in a larger patient cohort.

Data from 533 MS patients [439 without and 94 patients with add-on therapy (treatment group)] were evaluated retrospectively. All patients received a detailed neurological examination including evaluation of EDSS scores.

Pregabalin and gabapentin are used most commonly. Abnormal sensations are the most frequent reason for therapy initiation. Patients with higher EDSS values and/or under mitoxantrone treatment most frequently receive additional therapy.

So far, it is not known whether the investigated agents exert a beneficial influence on the disease course of MS itself beyond a mere symptomatic treatment. Further research efforts and clinical studies are necessary to address this question.