Anti-seizure drugs could help relieve nerve pain for diabetics

Medications taken to control seizures and other conditions could provide an effective treatment for nerve pain and burning sensations felt by many people who suffer from either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, according to guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology (AAN).
The report found strong evidence that anti-seizure drugs such as valproate and gabapenti, as well as antidepressants such as amitriptyline, duloxetine and venlafaxine, could lower the amount of pain that is associated with diabetic neuropathy, and also substantially improve the quality of life of people who have the condition.
The report, which was published in the journal Neurology, points out that nerve damage, or neuropathy, is a common problem for people with diabetes, and it is estimated that up to 16 per cent of the over 25 million adults in the US with diabetes suffer from the complaint.
Vera Bril, lead author on the research, commented “When neuropathy strikes, it is painful and can disrupt sleep. Because of this, it can also lead to mood changes and lower quality of life.”
She added ” Diabetic nerve pain is often unreported and more often untreated, with an estimated two out of five cases not receiving care.”