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Updated: Jul 31, 2026
10:31
Three-dimensional Imaging and Analysis of Mitochondria within Human Intraepidermal Nerve Fibers
Published on: September 29, 2017
Summary
This study found that painful diabetic neuropathy in lower extremities is often a form of depression. Antidepressant drugs like imipramine and amitriptyline effectively treated both the pain and depression in patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes.
- Painful diabetic neuropathy significantly impacts patients' quality of life.
- Depression is frequently comorbid with chronic pain conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate depression in patients with painful diabetic neuropathy.
- To assess the efficacy of antidepressant drug therapy for this condition.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind controlled study was conducted.
- Fifty-nine patients with painful diabetic neuropathy were included.
- Psychiatric interviews and Kupfer-Detre test scores were used for depression assessment.
- Treatment involved imipramine hydrochloride or amitriptyline hydrochloride.
Main Results:
- All patients exhibited substantial depression.
- Treatment with imipramine or amitriptyline led to complete remission of lower extremity pain within 10 weeks.
- Concomitant relief of depression symptoms and normalization of depression test scores were observed.
Conclusions:
- Painful diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities may represent a depressive equivalent in many cases.
- Imipramine and amitriptyline are effective treatments for painful diabetic neuropathy associated with depression.
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