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The Sciatic Nerve Cuffing Model of Neuropathic Pain in Mice
Published on: July 16, 2014
Extended-release gabapentin in post-herpetic neuralgia
Ben Thomas1, Paul Farquhar-Smith
1Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH , UK.
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
|September 28, 2011
Summary
Extended-release gabapentin (GpER) is FDA-approved for post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). However, limited data exist on its efficacy and optimal dosing, necessitating further research to confirm its treatment status.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Gabapentin is widely used for neuropathic pain.
- A novel extended-release formulation of gabapentin (GpER) received FDA approval in early 2011 for post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN).
- GpER utilizes a polymeric delivery system for once-daily administration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing evidence on the pharmacokinetics, tolerability, and efficacy of GpER.
- To assess the regulatory status and market intentions for GpER.
- To identify gaps in the current data regarding GpER.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pharmacokinetic, tolerability, and efficacy data for GpER.
- Analysis of regulatory approval status.
- Examination of manufacturer's market intentions.
Main Results:
- GpER is approved by the FDA for once-daily treatment of PHN.
- There is a lack of comprehensive data on GpER's efficacy and optimal dosing schedule.
- No direct comparative studies exist between GpER and immediate-release gabapentin or other PHN treatments.
Conclusions:
- Further experimental evidence is required to establish the efficacy and safety profile of GpER.
- The optimal dosing regimen (once or twice daily) for GpER requires clarification.
- Additional research is needed to define GpER's role in PHN treatment compared to existing therapies.
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