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Gabapentin for Pain in Pediatric Palliative Care
Ross Drake1, Grace Prael2, Yinyin Phyo2
1Starship Children's Health (R.D.), Auckland, New Zealand; University of Technology Sydney (UTS) (R.D., G.P., Y.P., S.C., J.H., A.H., D.C.), Centre for Improving Palliative, Aged, and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Sydney, Australia.
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
|November 30, 2023
Summary
Gabapentin effectively reduced pain in children receiving pediatric palliative care, with most experiencing relief and manageable side effects. This real-world study confirms its benefits for neuropathic pain in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Palliative Care
- Pain Management
- Neurology
Background:
- Gabapentin is frequently used for pain management in pediatric palliative care.
- Understanding its real-world efficacy and safety is crucial for optimizing treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the real-world use of gabapentin in children receiving pediatric palliative care.
- To evaluate the associated benefits and adverse events (AEs) of gabapentin therapy.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, multicenter cohort study was conducted across 11 sites in seven countries.
- Data were collected on pain scales and adverse events (AEs) using the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCICTCAE).
Main Results:
- 127 children with a median age of 4.7 years were included, many with neurological disorders or advanced cancer.
- 76% of children experienced pain reduction, with a mean pain score decrease from 6.0 to 1.8 after 12 weeks.
- 42% experienced potential adverse events (AEs), with somnolence reported in 7%; serious AEs were rare (3%).
Conclusions:
- Gabapentin, at standard doses, is associated with improved pain intensity in children with advanced cancer and severe neurological injury.
- The observed adverse effects are generally consistent with previously described levels, supporting its use in pediatric palliative care.
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