Pregabalina preoperatoria previene las fasciculaciones y mialgias inducidas por succinilcolina: metaanálisis de ensayos aleatorizados / Preoperative pregabalin prevents succinylcholine-induced fasciculations and myalgias: A meta-analysis of randomized trials

La succinilcolina es el bloqueador neuromuscular de referencia para la inducción de secuencia rápida. Sin embargo, su uso se asocia a fasciculaciones y mialgias. Se realizó una revisión sistemática y un metaanálisis. Se incluyeron ensayos clínicos controlados aleatorizados comparando gabapentinoides frente a placebo, para la prevención de fasciculaciones y mialgias inducidas por succinilcolina. Se incluyeron seis estudios clínicos aleatorizados. El número total de pacientes fue de 481, de los cuales 241 se incluyeron en el grupo de intervención y 240 en el grupo de placebo. Los gabapentinoides redujeron la incidencia de mialgia inducida por succinilcolina (RR=0,69; IC95%: 0,56-0,84; p<0,001), que siguió siendo estadísticamente significativa para pregabalina (RR=0,71; IC95%: 0,54-0,93; p=0,013) y gabapentina (RR=0,61; IC95%: 0,45-0,82; p=0,001) por separado. No hubo diferencia entre los grupos en cuanto a fasciculaciones (RR=0,92; IC95%: 0,82-1,03; p=0,148). El uso preoperatorio de gabapentinoides se asocia a una menor incidencia de mialgias inducidas por succinilcolina dentro de las primeras 24horas posteriores al procedimiento. (AU)

Succinylcholine is the gold standard neuromuscular blocker for rapid sequence induction, however, its use is associated with fasciculations and myalgias. A systematic review and meta-analysis including randomized controlled clinical trials was performed comparing gabapentinoids versus placebo for the prevention of fasciculations and succinylcholine-induced myalgias. Six randomized clinical studies were included. The total number of patients was 481, of which 241 were in the intervention group and 240 in the placebo group. Gabapentinoids reduced the incidence of succinylcholine-induced myalgia (RR=.69; 95%CI: .56-.84; P<.001), which remained statistically significant for pregabalin (RR=.71; 95%CI: .54-.93; P=.013) and gabapentin (RR=.61; 95%CI: .45-.82; P=.001) separately. There was no difference between the groups in fasciculations (RR=.92; 95%CI: .82-1.03; P=.148). Preoperative use of gabapentinoids is associated with lower incidence of succinylcholine-induced myalgias within the first 24hours after the procedure. (AU)

Mioclonías positivas y negativas en paciente con enfermedad renal crónica / Positive and negative myoclonus in a patient with end stage renal disease

Introducción: Las mioclonías son contracciones musculares paroxísticas de corta duración o pérdida abrupta del tono muscular, denominadas mioclonías positivas y negativas, respectivamente. Se presenta un caso clínico de mioclonías positivas y negativas generalizadas y se pretende describir los múltiples mecanismos fisiopatológicos y etiologías que lo desencadenan. Presentación del caso: Hombre de 35 años, con diabetes mellitus tipo 1 complicada con enfermedad renal diabética en hemodiálisis, desarrolló una bacteriemia asociada a catéter por Staphylococcus aureus y presentó mioclonías positivas y negativas. Se identificaron como posibles desencadenantes la uremia, la infección y los fármacos con potencial promioclónico; el hallazgo incidental de una lesión isquémica en núcleo caudado no explicaba la semiología encontrada en el paciente. Se hizo el control y retiro de todos los factores promioclónicos enunciados, junto a manejo farmacológico con levetiracetam, y con ello se logró el control de los síntomas. Discusión: Los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica son susceptibles a la acumulación de productos tóxicos de tipo guanidinas, que tienen potencial para producir mioclonías. Además, las infecciones, el uso de fármacos con potencial promioclónico y lesiones estructurales como las isquemias corticales son etiologías que deben considerarse en el diagnóstico diferencial. El mayor impacto en los síntomas se observa con el control del factor desencadenante, y, en caso de persistir, la terapia farmacológica proporciona buenos resultados. Conclusión: Las mioclonías son trastornos del movimiento relativamente comunes en la enfermedad renal crónica. La identificación del desencadenante es crucial para su manejo junto al uso de fármacos con actividad antimioclónica.

Introduction: Myoclonus are paroxysmal muscle contractions of short duration or abrupt loss of muscle tone, called positive and negative myoclonus respectively. A clinical case of generalized positive and negative myoclonus is presented and the aim is to describe the multiple pathophysiological mechanisms and etiologies that trigger it. Case presentation: A 35-year-old man with type 1 diabetes mellitus complicated by diabetic kidney disease on hemodialysis developed catheter-associated bacteremia due to Staphylococcus aureus and presented positive and negative myoclonus. Uremia, infection, and drugs with pro-myoclonic potential were identified as possible triggers; The incidental finding of an ischemic lesion in the caudate nucleus did not explain the semiology found in the patient. The control and removal of all the pro-myoclonic factors mentioned was carried out, along with pharmacological management with levetiracetam, thus achieving control of the symptoms. Discussion: Patients with chronic kidney disease are susceptible to the accumulation of guanidine-type toxic products, which have the potential to produce myoclonus. Furthermore, infections, the use of drugs with pro-myoclonic potential and structural lesions such as cortical ischemia are etiologies that should be considered in the differential diagnosis. The greatest impact on symptoms is observed with the control of the triggering factor and if it persists, pharmacological therapy provides good results. Conclusion: Myoclonus are relatively common movement disorders in chronic kidney disease. Identification of the trigger is crucial for its management along with the use of drugs with anti-myoclonic activity.

Preoperative pregabalin prevents succinylcholine-induced fasciculation and myalgia: A meta-analysis of randomized trials.

Succinylcholine is the gold standard neuromuscular blocker for rapid sequence induction; however, its use is associated with fasciculation and myalgia. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials comparing gabapentinoids versus placebo for the prevention of fasciculations and succinylcholine-induced myalgias. Six randomized clinical studies were included with a total of 481 patients - 241 in the intervention group and 240 in the placebo group. Gabapentinoids reduced the incidence of succinylcholine-induced myalgia (RR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.56-0.84, P < .001), which remained statistically significant for pregabalin (RR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.54-0.93, P = .013) and gabapentin (RR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.45-0.82, P = .001) separately. There was no difference in fasciculations between the groups (RR = 0.92, 95% CI 0.82-1.03, P = .148). Preoperative use of gabapentinoids is associated with lower incidence of succinylcholine-induced myalgias within the first 24 h of surgery.

Pregabalin and gabapentin for chronic low back pain without radiculopathy: a systematic review / Pregabalina e gabapentina para dor lombar crônica sem radiculopatia: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Background Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a global health problem, and gabapentin and pregabalin are often used in the treatment of patients without associated radiculopathy or neuropathy. Therefore, determining their efficacy and safety is of enormous value. Objective To examine the efficacy and safety of using gabapentin and pregabalin for CLBP without radiculopathy or neuropathy. Methods We performed a search on the CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, and Web of Science data bases for clinical trials, cohorts, and case-control studies that evaluated patients with CLBP without radiculopathy or neuropathy for at least eight weeks. The data were extracted and inserted into a previously-prepared Microsoft Excel spreadsheet; the outcomes were evaluated using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool, and the quality of evidence, using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Results Of the 2,230 articles identified, only 5 were included, totaling 242 participants. In them, pregabalin was slightly less efficacious than amitriptyline, the combination of tramadol/acetaminophen, and celecoxib, and pregabalin added to celecoxib showed no benefit when compared to celecoxib alone (very low evidence for all). On the other hand, although one study with gabapentin did not support its use in a general sample of patients with low back pain, another found a reduction in the pain scale and improved mobility (moderate evidence). No serious adverse events were observed in any of the studies. Conclusion Quality information to support the use of pregabalin or gabapentin in the treatment of CLBP without radiculopathy or neuropathy is lacking, although results may suggest gabapentin as a viable option. More data is needed to fill this current gap in knowledge.

Resumo Antecedentes Dor lombar crônica (DLC) é um problema de saúde global, e a gabapentina e a pregabalina são frequentemente utilizadas no tratamento de pacientes sem radiculopatia ou neuropatia associada. Por isso, determinar sua eficácia e segurança é de enorme valor. Objetivo Examinar a eficácia e segurança do uso de gabapentina e pregabalina no tratamento da DLC sem radiculopatia ou neuropatia. Métodos Realizamos uma pesquisa nas bases de dados CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS e Web of Science por ensaios clínicos, coortes e estudos de caso e controle que avaliassem pacientes com DLC sem radiculopatia ou neuropatia por pelo menos oito semanas. Os dados foram extraídos e inseridos em uma planilha previamente elaborada no programa Microsoft Excel; os desfechos foram avaliados com a ferramenta RoB 2 tool da Cochrane, e a qualidade das evidências, pelo sistema Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Resultados Dos 2.230 artigos identificados, apenas 5 foram incluídos, com um total de 242 participantes. Neles, a pregabalina foi ligeiramente menos eficaz do que a amitriptilina, a combinação de tramadol/acetaminofeno, e o celecoxibe, assim como a pregabalina adicionada ao celecoxibe não mostrou benefício em comparação ao uso isolado de celecoxibe (evidência muito baixa para todos). Quanto à gabapentina, embora um estudo não respalde seu uso para uma amostra geral de pacientes com lombalgia, outro encontrou redução na escala de dor e melhora da mobilidade (evidência moderada). Nenhum evento adverso grave foi observado nos estudos. Conclusão Há carência de informações de qualidade que sustentem o uso de pregabalina ou gabapentina no tratamento da DLC sem radiculopatia ou neuropatia, embora resultados possam sugerir que a gabapentina é uma opção viável. Mais dados são necessários para preencher essa atual lacuna no conhecimento.

[Off-label use of gabapentinoid drugs: is it necessary a deprescription strategy?] / Gabapentinoides en indicaciones no autorizadas en la ficha técnica: ¿es necesaria una estrategia de desprescripción?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate gabapentin and pregabalin treatment adequacy to label indications, to analyze off-label use and to identify patients at high risk of respiratory depression. METHOD: An observational, retrospective study was performed. It included patients treated with pregabalin and gabapentin during 2020 in Navarre. RESULTS: A total of 9778 patients were treated with gabapentin or pregabalin during the first two months of 2020. In 56% of the cases, gabapentinoids were prescribed for off-label uses. Sixty percent of patients were taking at least one central nervous system (CNS) depressant drug concomitantly, 33% of them opioids, 20% of them combined opioids with CNS depressants and 4% of them at least one systemic antihistamine. In addition, 11% of the patients had a diagnosis of asthma or COPD. Prevalences remained constant along the year. CONCLUSIONS: It is necessary to implement a gabapentinoid deprescription strategy to improve its use and reduce safety problems.

Gabapentinoides en indicaciones no autorizadas en la ficha técnica: ¿es necesaria una estrategia de desprescripción? / Off-label use of gabapentinoid drugs: is it necessary a deprescription strategy?

Objetivo: Evaluar la adecuación de los tratamientos con gabapentina y pregabalina a las indicaciones autorizadas, analizar su uso en las no autorizadas e identificar los pacientes con más riesgo de sufrir depresión respiratoria. Método: Estudio observacional retrospectivo que incluyó a los pacientes en tratamiento con gabapentina o pregabalina en 2020 en Navarra. Resultados: Se incluyeron 9778 pacientes en tratamiento con gabapentina o pregabalina durante el primer bimestre de 2020. En el 56% de los casos se prescribieron para indicaciones no autorizadas. El 60% tomaba concomitantemente al menos un depresor del sistema nervioso central (SNC), el 33% algún opiáceo, el 20% opiáceos combinados con depresores del SNC y el 4% algún antihistamínico. El 11% tenía diagnóstico de asma o enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica. Estas prevalencias se mantuvieron constantes durante el resto del año. Conclusiones: Es necesario implementar una estrategia de desprescripción de gabapentinoides para adecuar su uso y disminuir los problemas de seguridad. (AU)

Objective: To evaluate gabapentin and pregabalin treatment adequacy to label indications, to analyze off-label use and to identify patients at high risk of respiratory depression. Method: An observational, retrospective study was performed. It included patients treated with pregabalin and gabapentin during 2020 in Navarre. Results: A total of 9778 patients were treated with gabapentin or pregabalin during the first two months of 2020. In 56% of the cases, gabapentinoids were prescribed for off-label uses. Sixty percent of patients were taking at least one central nervous system (CNS) depressant drug concomitantly, 33% of them opioids, 20% of them combined opioids with CNS depressants and 4% of them at least one systemic antihistamine. In addition, 11% of the patients had a diagnosis of asthma or COPD. Prevalences remained constant along the year. Conclusions: It is necessary to implement a gabapentinoid deprescription strategy to improve its use and reduce safety problems.

Pruritus in dialysis patients. Review and new perspectives.

Uremic pruritus (UP) is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms for patients in dialysis. UP has a great impact on dialysis patients' quality of life and has a great prevalence between those (28-70%). Physiopathology of UP is unknown and usually is unnoticed for most nephrologists (in more than 65% of centers is underdiagnosed). This lack of awareness drives to the unsuccessful treatment of this symptom. Moreover, the fact that most studies have been carried out on small populations and the difficulty assessing UP complicates a correct therapeutical approach. For this reason, we have designed treatment algorithms based on the efficacy of the drugs but also its safeness to avoid adverse effects.

The Effect of Neuromodulatory Drugs on the Intensity of Chronic Pelvic Pain in Women: A Systematic Review / Efeito de neuromoduladores na intensidade da dor pélvica crônica em mulheres: Revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effect of neuromodulatory drugs on the intensity of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women. Data sources: Searches were carried out in the PubMed, Cochrane Central, Embase, Lilacs, OpenGrey, and Clinical Trials databases. Selection of studies: The searches were carried out by two of the authors, not delimiting publication date or original language. The following descriptors were used: chronic pelvic pain in women OR endometriosis, associated with MESH/ENTREE/DeCS: gabapentinoids, gabapentin, amitriptyline, antidepressant, pregabalin, anticonvulsant, sertraline, duloxetine, nortriptyline, citalopram, imipramine, venlafaxine, neuromodulation drugs, acyclic pelvic pain, serotonin, noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants, with the Boolean operator OR. Case reports and systematic reviews were excluded. Data collection: The following data were extracted: author, year of publication, setting, type of study, sample size, intervention details, follow-up time, and results. Data synthesis: A total of 218 articles were found, with 79 being excluded because they were repeated, leaving 139 articles for analysis: 90 were excluded in the analysis of the titles, 37 after reading the abstract, and 4 after reading the articles in full, and 1 could not be found, therefore, leaving 7 articles that were included in the review. Conclusion: Most of the studies analyzed have shown pain improvement with the help of neuromodulators for chronic pain. However, no improvement was found in the study with the highest statistical power. There is still not enough evidence that neuromodulatory drugs reduce the intensity of pain in women with CPP.

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito de drogas neuromoduladoras na intensidade da dor pélvica crônica em mulheres. Fontes de dados: As buscas foram realizadas nas bases de dados PubMed, Cochrane Central, Embase, Lilacs, OpenGrey e Clinical Trials. Seleção dos estudos: As buscas foram realizadas por dois dos autores, não delimitando data de publicação ou idioma de publicação. Foram usados os seguintes descritores: chronic pelvic pain in women OR endometriosis, associated with MESH/ENTREE/DeCS: gabapentinoids, gabapentin, amitriptyline, antidepressant, pregabalin, anticonvulsant, sertraline, duloxetine, nortriptyline, citalopram, imipramine, venlafaxine, neuromodulation drugs, acyclic pelvic pain, serotonin, noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors e tricyclic antidepressants, com o operador booleano OR. Relatos de caso e revisões sistemáticas foram excluídos. Coleta de dados: Foram extraídos os seguintes dados: autor, ano de publicação, local de origem, tipo de estudo, tamanho da amostra, detalhes da intervenção, tempo de seguimento e resultados. Síntese dos dados: Foram encontrados 218 artigos, sendo 79 deles excluídos por serem repetidos, restando 139 artigos para análise, dos quais 90 foram excluídos na análise dos títulos, 37 após a leitura do resumo e 4 após a leitura dos artigos na íntegra, e 1 não foi encontrado, restando, então, 7 artigos que foram incluídos na revisão. Conclusão: A maioria dos estudos analisados mostrou melhora da dor crônica com auxílio de neuromoduladores. No entanto, nenhuma melhora foi encontrada no artigo com maior poder estatístico. Ainda não há evidências suficientes de que drogas neuromoduladoras reduzam a intensidade da dor pélvica crônica em mulheres.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness and adverse events of gabapentin and pregabalin for sciatica pain / Revisión sistemática y metaanálisis sobre la efectividad y eventos adversos de gabapentina y pregabalina para el dolor de ciática

Aim: This SR aims to assess the effectiveness of pregabalin and gabapentin on pain and disability caused by acute sciatica and the adverse events associated with their clinical use.DesignSystematic review.DatabasesElectronic databases of Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Clinical Trials.gov were searched from their inception until March 1st of 2021.Selection criteriaRandomized trials (RCT) with adults>18 years old with acute sciatica for a minimum of 1 week and a maximum of 1 year (at least moderate pain).Data treatmentThe outcomes were pain, disability and adverse events. Data was summarized using odds ratio and mean difference. GRADE was used to calculate the level of evidence.ResultsEight RCT involving 747 participants were included. The effect of pregabalin was assessed in 3 RCT and in one three-arm trial (pregabalin vs limaprost vs a combination of limaprost and pregabalin). Two trials assessed the effect of gabapentin compared with placebo and one compared with tramadol. One study assessed the effect of gabapentin vs pregabalin in a crossover head-to-head trial.A statistically significant improvement on leg pain at 2 weeks and leg pain with movement at 3 and 4 months was found in a RCT comparing gabapentin with placebo. There were no statistically differences on the remaining time periods assessed for leg pain, low back pain and functional disability.ConclusionsThis SR provides clear evidence for lack of effectiveness of pregabalin and gabapentin for sciatica pain management. In view of this, its routine clinical use cannot be supported.

Objetivo: Esta revisión sistemática evalúa la efectividad de pregabalina y gabapentina sobre el dolor y la discapacidad producidas por el dolor agudo causado por ciática, y los eventos adversos asociados al uso clínico.DiseñoRevisión sistemática.Bases de datosSe buscó en Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, y en Clinical Trials.gov desde su inicio hasta el 1 de marzo del 2021.Criterios de selecciónEnsayos clínicos aleatorizados (ECA) sobre adultos > 18 años con ciática aguda establecida entre una semana como mínimo y un año como máximo (al menos con dolor moderado).Tratamiento de datosLos resultados fueron dolor, discapacidad y eventos adversos. Los datos fueron resumidos usando odds ratio y diferencia de medias. Para calcular el nivel de evidencia se empleó GRADE.ResultadosSe incluyeron 8 ECA con un total de 747 participantes. El efecto de la pregabalina fue evaluado en 3 ECA y en un ensayo de 3 brazos (pregabalina vs. limaprost vs. una combinación de limaprost y pregabalina). Dos ensayos evaluaron el efecto de gabapentina comparado con placebo y uno lo comparó con tramadol. Un estudio evaluó el efecto de gabapentina vs. pregabalina en un ensayo cruzado.En un ECA se encontró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la mejora del dolor de piernas a las 2 semanas y en el dolor de piernas con el movimiento a los 3 y 4 meses, con gabapentina comparado frente a placebo. No hubo diferencias en el resto de los periodos estudiados para el dolor de piernas, dolor en la zona lumbar o en la discapacidad funcional.ConclusionesEsta revisión sistemática ofrece evidencia clara de la falta de pruebas sobre la efectividad de pregabalina o gabapentina para el manejo del dolor derivado de la ciática. Por tanto, su uso clínico rutinario no está avalado.

Prurito en pacientes en diálisis. Revisión de la literatura y nuevas perspectivas / Pruritus in dialysis patients. Review and new perspectives

El prurito es uno de los síntomas más incómodos y que más impacta en la calidad de vida de los pacientes en diálisis. Su prevalencia es bastante elevada en pacientes en diálisis (28-70%). La fisiopatología del prurito urémico es desconocida, y este síntoma a menudo pasa desapercibido para el personal sanitario, siendo infradiagnosticado en más del 65% de los centros. Esta falta de reconocimiento deriva en un abordaje terapéutico ineficaz del prurito urémico. Por otro lado, la mayoría de los ensayos farmacológicos para el tratamiento del prurito urémico han sido realizados en poblaciones reducidas y están sujetos a la subjetiva medición del propio síntoma. Por este motivo, hemos propuesto algoritmos de tratamiento, teniendo en cuenta la evidencia que avala a cada fármaco y a la vez la pluripatología y la polifarmacia de cada paciente, con el fin de evitar efectos adversos. (AU)

Uremic pruritus (UP) is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms for patients in dialysis. UP has a great impact on dialysis patients’ quality of life and has a great prevalence between those (28–70%). Physiopathology of UP is unknown and usually is unnoticed for most nephrologists (in more than 65% of centers is underdiagnosed). This lack of awareness drives to the unsuccessful treatment of this symptom. Moreover, the fact that most studies have been carried out on small populations and the difficulty assessing UP complicates a correct therapeutical approach. For this reason, we have designed treatment algorithms based on the efficacy of the drugs but also its safeness to avoid adverse effects. (AU)

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness and adverse events of gabapentin and pregabalin for sciatica pain.

AIM: This SR aims to assess the effectiveness of pregabalin and gabapentin on pain and disability caused by acute sciatica and the adverse events associated with their clinical use. DESIGN: Systematic review. DATABASES: Electronic databases of Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Clinical Trials.gov were searched from their inception until March 1st of 2021. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized trials (RCT) with adults>18 years old with acute sciatica for a minimum of 1 week and a maximum of 1 year (at least moderate pain). DATA TREATMENT: The outcomes were pain, disability and adverse events. Data was summarized using odds ratio and mean difference. GRADE was used to calculate the level of evidence. RESULTS: Eight RCT involving 747 participants were included. The effect of pregabalin was assessed in 3 RCT and in one three-arm trial (pregabalin vs limaprost vs a combination of limaprost and pregabalin). Two trials assessed the effect of gabapentin compared with placebo and one compared with tramadol. One study assessed the effect of gabapentin vs pregabalin in a crossover head-to-head trial. A statistically significant improvement on leg pain at 2 weeks and leg pain with movement at 3 and 4 months was found in a RCT comparing gabapentin with placebo. There were no statistically differences on the remaining time periods assessed for leg pain, low back pain and functional disability. CONCLUSIONS: This SR provides clear evidence for lack of effectiveness of pregabalin and gabapentin for sciatica pain management. In view of this, its routine clinical use cannot be supported.

Pruritus in dialysis patients. Review and new perspectives. / Prurito en pacientes en diálisis. Revisión de la literatura y nuevas perspectivas.

Uremic pruritus (UP) is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms for patients in dialysis. UP has a great impact on dialysis patients' quality of life and has a great prevalence between those (28-70%). Physiopathology of UP is unknown and usually is unnoticed for most nephrologists (in more than 65% of centers is underdiagnosed). This lack of awareness drives to the unsuccessful treatment of this symptom. Moreover, the fact that most studies have been carried out on small populations and the difficulty assessing UP complicates a correct therapeutical approach. For this reason, we have designed treatment algorithms based on the efficacy of the drugs but also its safeness to avoid adverse effects.

Use of gabapentin in management of postoperative pain after crosslinking / Uso da gabapentina no manejo da dor pós-operatória do crosslinking

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of gabapentin in the management of neuropathic pain in patients with keratoconus, who were treated with fast (10 minutes) epi-off corneal crosslinking (CXL). Methods: This was a prospective, double-blind, randomized study. The sample comprised patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus, aged 12 years or older, who underwent a bilateral epi-off corneal CXL (fast - 10 minutes) procedure. One group was given placebo orally, and the other group received gabapentin 600 mg orally, both preoperatively. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was applied to record postoperative pain up to 48 hours after procedure. The study was conducted at the Belotto Stock Centro Oftalmológico, in the city of Joaçaba, Santa Catarina, Brazil, from June 2018 to September 2019. Results: At no point in the study significant differences were observed between groups, in terms of pain intensity measured by means of the VAS questionnaire, or of opioid use (Paco®), though opioid consumption was 21% lower in the group receiving gabapentin. Conclusion: We concluded gabapentin has no efficacy in postoperative pain control after epi-off corneal CXL (fast - 10 minutes). Although there was no statistically significant difference, the group that received gabapentin suffered less pain, resulting in lower opioid consumption. UTN number: U1111-1256-0330.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia do uso da gabapentina no manejo da dor neuropática em pacientes portadores de ceratocone submetidos ao tratamento de crosslinking corneano epi-off fast de 10 minutos. Métodos: Tratou-se de pesquisa prospectiva, duplo-cega, randomizada. A amostra foi composta de pacientes com ceratocone progressivo bilateral, a partir dos 12 anos de idade, submetidos ao procedimento de crosslinking corneano acelerado epi-off fast de 10 minutos bilateral. Um grupo recebeu placebo via oral e o outro, gabapentina 600mg, via oral, ambos no pré-operatório. A Escala Visual Analógica foi aplicada para registrar a dor pós-operatória até 48 horas após o procedimento. A pesquisa foi realizada no período de junho de 2018 a setembro de 2019 em um centro oftalmológico. Resultados: Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas significativas para ambos os grupos, tanto na intensidade da dor medida pela Escala Visual Analógica, como na redução do uso do opioide (Paco®), em qualquer horário analisado durante um período de 48 horas. No entanto, houve redução de 21% no consumo de opioides pelo grupo que fez uso da gabapentina. Conclusão: A gabapentina não demonstrou eficácia no controle da dor no pós-operatório do crosslinking corneano epi-off fast de 10 minutos. No entanto, observou-se que, mesmo não havendo diferença estatisticamente significativa, houve diminuição da dor no grupo em que foi usada a gabapentina, resultando na redução do consumo de opioides. Número UTN: U1111-1256-0330.

Review: Does Gabapentin Relieve Opioid, Cannabis and Methamphetamine Addictions? / Revisión: ¿La Gabapentina Alivia las Adicciones a los Opiáceos, el Cannabis y las Metanfetaminas? / Revisão: A Gabapentina Reduz o Vício em Drogas Opiáceas, em Cannabis e em Metanfetaminas?

Abstract The study reviews the suitability of using Gabapentin for treating opioid, cannabis and methamphetamine use disorders. This revision consists of 61 biographical references based on a PubMed database search (January of 1983-May of 2018). Gabapentin displayed respectively 50% and 66.7% of success for treating methamphetamine dependence and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Furthermore, a few research studies have reported Gabapentin's efficacy for alleviating cannabis dependence (two studies), and cannabis withdrawal symptoms (one study). Similarly, a single study reported Gabapentin reduction of opioid consumption during the detoxification process. Based on the revision, we can conclude that: (a) Gabapentin is useful for treating opioid withdrawal symptoms, (b) additional studies are necessary for elucidating the effectiveness of Gabapentin for treating methamphetamine dependence, cannabis dependence and its withdrawal symptoms, and (c) more studies are necessary to confirm the efficacy of Gabapentin in reducing opioid consumption during detoxification.

Resumen El trabajo revisa 61 referencias bibliográficas, producto de una búsqueda en la base de datos PubMed (enero de 1983 a mayo de 2018), con el fin de determinar si la Gabapentina es adecuada para el tratamiento de trastornos derivados del uso de opiáceos, cannabis y metanfetaminas. El éxito de la Gabapentina para tratar la dependencia a las metanfetaminas y los síntomas de abstinencia de opiáceos fue de 50% y 66.7%, respectivamente. Algunas investigaciones han informado la eficacia de la Gabapentina para aliviar la dependencia al cannabis (dos estudios) y los síntomas de abstinencia del cannabis (un estudio). Un solo estudio reportó que la Gabapentina redujo el consumo de opiáceos, durante el proceso de desintoxicación. La revisión nos permite concluir que (a) la Gabapentina es útil para tratar los síntomas de abstinencia de los opiáceos, (b) se necesitan más estudios para esclarecer la efectividad de la Gabapentina para tratar la dependencia a las metan-fetaminas, al cannabis y los síntomas de abstinencia, y (c) se requieren más estudios para confirmar la eficacia de la Gabapentina para reducir el consumo de opiáceos durante la desintoxicación.

Resumo A partir de uma busca na base de dados PubMed (janeiro de 1983 a maio de 2018), são revisadas 61 referências bibliográficas a fim de determinar se a gabapentina é adequada para tratar transtornos derivados do uso de opiáceos, cannabis e metanfetaminas. O sucesso do uso da gabapentina para tratar a dependência das metanfetaminas e dos sintomas de abstinência de opiáceos foi de 50% e 66,7%, respectivamente. Algumas pesquisas relatam a eficácia da gabapentina para aliviar a dependência de cannabis (dois estudos) e dos sintomas de abstinência de cannabis (um estudo). Somente um estudo relatou que a gabapentina reduzia o consumo de opiáceos durante o processo de desintoxicação. A revisão nos permite concluir que: (a) a gabapentina é útil para tratar os sintomas de abstinência dos opiáceos, (b) é necessário mais estudos para esclarecer a efetividade da gabapentina para tratar a dependência das metanfetaminas, da cannabis e dos sintomas de abstinência e (c) são necessários mais estudos para confirmar a eficácia da gabapentina para reduzir o consumo de opiáceos durante a desintoxicação.

Descripción teórica de la posibilidad de la detección electroquímica de la gabapentina, asistida por CoO(OH) / The theoretical description for CoO(OH)-assisted gabapentine electrochemical determination

RESUMEN La posibilidad de usar el oxihidróxido del cobalto en la detección electroquímica de la gabapentina ha sido evaluada, y se sugirió un mecanismo del desempeño del analito y del modificador. Este fue desarrollado y analizado (mediante la teoría de estabilidad lineal y análisis de bifurcaciones) un modelo matemático basado en este mecanismo. La evaluación teórica confirma que el oxihidróxido de cobalto puede ser un modificador eficiente para la detección de la gabapentina, a pesar de la hibridez de su mecanismo de oxidación. La posibilidad y las causas de los comportamientos oscilatorio y monotónico también han sido investigadas.

SUMMARY The possibility for the use of cobalt (III) oxyhydroxide in gabapentine electrochemical determination has been evaluated. A mechanism for analyte and modifier function has been suggested. A mathematical model based in this mechanism has been developed and analyzed (by means of linear stability theory and bifurcation analysis). The theoretical evaluation confirms that the cobalt (III) oxyhydroxide may be an efficient modifier for gabapentine electrochemical determination, despite of the hybridity of its oxidation mechanism. The possibility and the causes for oscillatory and monotonic instabilities have also been investigated.

Efficacy and safety of preemptive analgesia with gabapentinoids for patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Eficacia y seguridad de la analgesia preventiva con gabapentinoides para pacientes sometidos a cirugía artroscópica de hombro: una revisión sistemática y metanálisis

Abstract: Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of preemptive analgesia with gabapentinoids for patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Material and methods: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect databases. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) comparing gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) with placebo in patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopic surgery were retrieved. The primary endpoint was the visual analogue scale (VAS) score at 24 hours and cumulative morphine consumption at 24 hours. The secondary outcomes were complications of nausea/vomiting, sedation and dizziness. After tests for publication bias and heterogeneity among studies were performed, data were aggregated for random-effects models when necessary. Results: Five clinical studies (gabapentin group n = 4 and pregabalin group n = 1) were ultimately included in the meta-analysis. Gabapentinoids were associated with reduced pain scores at 24 hours. Similarly, gabapentinoids were associated with a reduction in cumulative morphine consumption at 24 hours. Furthermore, gabapentinoids can significantly reduce the occurrence of nausea/vomiting. There were no significant differences in the occurrence of sedation and dizziness. Conclusions: Preoperative use of gabapentinoids was able to reduce postoperative pain, total morphine consumption, and morphine-related complications following arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Further studies should determine the optimal dose and whether pregabalin is superior to gabapentin in controlling acute pain after shoulder surgery.

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de la analgesia preventiva con gabapentinoides para pacientes sometidos a cirugía artroscópica del hombro. Material y métodos: Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática y metaanálisis conforme a PRISMA en las bases de datos PubMed, Cochrane Library y ScienceDirect. Se recuperaron ensayos controlados aleatorios (RCT) que comparaban los gabapentinoides (gabapentina y pregabalina) con placebo en pacientes sometidos a cirugía artroscópica del hombro. El punto final principal fue la puntuación de la escala analógica visual (VAS) a las 24 horas y el consumo acumulado de morfina a las 24 horas. Los resultados secundarios fueron complicaciones de náuseas/vómitos, sedación y mareos. Después de realizar pruebas de sesgo de publicación y heterogeneidad entre los estudios, se agregaron datos para modelos de efectos aleatorios cuando fue necesario. Resultados: En última instancia, se incluyeron en el metaanálisis cinco estudios clínicos (grupo de gabapentina n = 4 y grupo de pregabalina n = 1). Los gabapentinoides se asociaron con puntuaciones de dolor reducidas a las 24 horas. Del mismo modo, los gabapentinoides se asociaron con una reducción en el consumo acumulado de morfina a las 24 horas. Además, los gabapentinoides pueden reducir significativamente la aparición de náuseas/vómitos. No hubo diferencias significativas en la ocurrencia de sedación y mareos. Conclusiones: El uso preoperatorio de gabapentinoides fue capaz de reducir el dolor postoperatorio, el consumo total de morfina y las complicaciones relacionadas con la morfina después de la cirugía artroscópica del hombro. Otros estudios deben determinar la dosis óptima y si la pregabalina es superior a la gabapentina en el control del dolor agudo después de la cirugía de hombro.

Effect of melatonin on the daytime sleepiness side-effect of gabapentin in adults patients with neuropathic pain / Efeito da melatonina sobre o efeito colateral de sonolência diurna da gabapentina em pacientes adultos com dor neuropática

Abstract Background and objectives: Gabapentin is an antiepileptic drug. Widely used for the management of neuropathic pain. Although it is known to be well tolerated, somnolence and dizziness are the most frequent adverse effects. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of melatonin on daytime sleepiness side effect of gabapentin, sleep quality and pain intensity of patients with neuropathic pain. Methods: Patients suffering from "neuropathic pain" and planed to receive gabapentin therapy were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 received melatonin 3 mg and gabapentin 900 mg orally, group 2 received matching placebo capsule and gabapentin 900 mg. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Pittsburgh sleep quality index for assessment of sleep quality and Verbal Rating Scale were completed at the 0th, 10th and 30th days of treatment. Additive analgesic drug requirements were recorded. Results: Eighty patients were enrolled to the study; age, gender, ratio of additive analgesic consumption, baseline Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburg Sleep Quality index and Verbal Rating Scale scores were similar between the groups. Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores, Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores and Verbal Rating Scale scores in Group 1 were significantly lower than group 2 at the 10th day of treatment (p = 0.002, p = 0.003, p = 0.002 respectively). At the 30th day of treatment, Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores and Verbal Rating Scale scores were significantly lower in Group 1 (p = 0.002, p = 0.008 respectively). However, Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores did not significantly differ between the groups (p = 0.0566). Conclusions: Melatonin supplementation rapidly and significantly improved daytime sleepiness side-effect of gabapentin, however sleep quality of the patients with neuropathic pain was similar between groups.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Gabapentina é um agente antiepiléptico, amplamente utilizado para o tratamento da dor neuropática. Embora conhecida por ser bem-tolerada, sonolência e tontura são os seus efeitos adversos mais frequentes. Neste estudo, nosso objetivo foi avaliar o efeito da melatonina sobre o efeito colateral de sonolência diurna da gabapentina, a qualidade do sono e a intensidade da dor em pacientes com dor neuropática. Métodos: Os pacientes que sofriam de "dor neuropática" e com prescrição para receber terapia com gabapentina foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos. O Grupo 1 recebeu 3 mg de melatonina e 900 mg de gabapentina por via oral, o Grupo 2 recebeu uma cápsula de placebo correspondente e 900 mg de gabapentina. A escala de sonolência de Epworth (ESS), o índice de qualidade do sono de Pittsburgh para avaliação da qualidade do sono (PSQI) e a escala de avaliação verbal (VRS) foram aplicados nos dias 0, 10 e 30 de tratamento. A necessidade de medicamentos analgésicos adicionais foi registrada. Resultados: Oitenta pacientes foram incluídos no estudo; idade, sexo, quantidade de analgésico adicional consumida e os escores basais de ESS, PSQI e VRS foram semelhantes entre os grupos. Os escores ESS, PSQI e VRS do Grupo 1 foram significativamente menores que os do Grupo 2 no décimo dia de tratamento (p = 0,002, p = 0,003, p = 0,002, respectivamente). No trigésimo dia de tratamento, os escores ESS e VRS foram significativamente menores no Grupo 1 (p = 0,002, p = 0,008, respectivamente). No entanto, os escores PSQI não diferiram significativamente entre os grupos (p = 0,0566). Conclusões: A suplementação de melatonina melhorou de forma rápida e significativa o efeito colateral de sonolência diurna da gabapentina, mas a qualidade do sono dos pacientes com dor neuropática foi semelhante entre os grupos.

[Effect of melatonin on the daytime sleepiness side-effect of gabapentin in adults patients with neuropathic pain]. / Efeito da melatonina sobre o efeito colateral de sonolência diurna da gabapentina em pacientes adultos com dor neuropática.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Gabapentin is an antiepileptic drug. Widely used for the management of neuropathic pain. Although it is known to be well tolerated, somnolence and dizziness are the most frequent adverse effects. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of melatonin on daytime sleepiness side effect of gabapentin, sleep quality and pain intensity of patients with neuropathic pain. METHODS: Patients suffering from "neuropathic pain" and planed to receive gabapentin therapy were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 received melatonin 3mg and gabapentin 900mg orally, group 2 received matching placebo capsule and gabapentin 900mg. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Pittsburgh sleep quality index for assessment of sleep quality and Verbal Rating Scale were completed at the 0th, 10th and 30th days of treatment. Additive analgesic drug requirements were recorded. RESULTS: Eighty patients were enrolled to the study; age, gender, ratio of additive analgesic consumption, baseline Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburg Sleep Quality index and Verbal Rating Scale scores were similar between the groups. Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores, Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores and Verbal Rating Scale scores in Group 1 were significantly lower than group 2 at the 10th day of treatment (p=0.002, p=0.003, p=0.002 respectively). At the 30th day of treatment, Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores and Verbal Rating Scale scores were significantly lower in Group 1 (p=0.002, p=0.008 respectively). However, Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores did not significantly differ between the groups (p=0.0566). CONCLUSIONS: Melatonin supplementation rapidly and significantly improved daytime sleepiness side-effect of gabapentin, however sleep quality of the patients with neuropathic pain was similar between groups.

Gabapentine 300 mg vs. 450 mg as anesthetic premedication for reactive hypertension, anxiety and analgesia / Gabapentina a dosis de 300 vs. 450 mg como premedicación anestésica para hipertensión reactiva, ansiedad y analgesia.

Objective: Observe the behavior of gabapentin to reduce reactive hypertension secondary to anxiety and pain in patients undergoing ophthalmic surgery as well as opioid consumption between groups. Method: Clinical randomized double blind controlled trial that analyzed 125 patients divided into three groups: Group A, gabapentin 300 mg; Group B, gabapentin 450 mg; and Group C, amaranth dragees as a control 2 h before the surgical procedure. Chi-squared test was used in sociodemographic variables and one-way ANOVA for continuous numeric variables. It was considered as significant a p < 0.05 for a study of two tails with a power of 80% beta. Results: Anxiety and analgesia intraoperative and postoperative had significant differences between groups. Lower consumption of opioid was found in the groups that used gabapentin. Conclusions: Gabapentin orally 300 or 450 mg h prior to surgery reduces pain, anxiety and postoperative opioid consumption in patients undergoing ophthalmic surgery.

Objetivo: Observar el comportamiento de la gabapentina para aminorar la hipertensión reactiva secundaria a ansiedad y dolor en pacientes sometidos a cirugía oftálmica, así como el consumo de opiáceos entre los grupos. Método: Ensayo clínico controlado aleatorizado y doble ciego que analizó a 125 pacientes divididos en tres grupos: grupo A, gabapentina 300 mg; grupo B, gabapentina 450 mg; grupo C, amaranto en grageas como control 2 horas antes del procedimiento quirúrgico. Se utilizó la prueba de ji al cuadrado para variables sociodemográficas y ANOVA de un factor para variables numéricas continuas. Se consideró como significativo un valor de p < 0.05 para un estudio de dos colas con un poder beta del 80%. Resultados: La ansiedad y la analgesia transoperatoria y posoperatoria tuvieron diferencias significativas entre los grupos. Se encontró menor consumo de opiáceos en los grupos que usaron gabapentina. Conclusiones: La gabapentina por vía oral, 300 o 450 mg, 2 horas antes de la cirugía, reduce el dolor, la ansiedad y el consumo de opiáceos durante el posoperatorio en pacientes sometidos a cirugía oftalmológica.

Clinical and economic consequences of treating patients with peripheral neuropathic pain with brand name or generic drugs in routine clinical practice: The effects of age and sex. / Efecto de la edad y el género sobre las consecuencias clínicas y económicas del tratamiento con especialidad farmacéutica de marca o genérica en pacientes con dolor neuropático periférico en práctica clínica habitual.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to analyse the effects of age and sex on pain and cost for patients with chronic peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) who have started treatment with brand name gabapentin versus generic gabapentin (EFG). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective multicentre study using electronic medical records (EMR) for patients of both sexes, older than 18, who began treatment with brand name or generic gabapentin. Adherence (medication possession ratio [MPR]), persistence, use of healthcare resources, cost, and pain reduction were measured for one year. RESULTS: We analysed 1369 EMRs [61.1% women; mean age 64.6 (15.9), 52.4%≥65 years]; 400 used brand name drugs while 969 used generic gabapentin. Persistence and adherence were higher in patients using brand name gabapentin (7.3 vs 6.3 months, P<.001; 86.5% vs 81.3% MPR, P<.001). Lower healthcare costs were observed in patients using brand-name gabapentin in both age groups (<65 and ≥65). Mean difference in cost per patient amounted to €221 (95%CI: 59-382) and €217 (95%CI: 51-382) in the <65 and ≥65 age groups, respectively (P<.01). Mean difference in cost among men amounted to €197 (63-328), while mean difference in cost among women amounted to €239 (96-397) (P=.005 and P=.004, respectively). Compared with EFG, brand treatment showed greater pain relief: 13.5% (10.9-16.2) and 10.8% (8.2-13.5) in <65 and ≥65year patients, respectively (P<.001), and 10.7% (8.2-13.2) and 13.8% (11.0-16.5) in women and men respectively (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of sex and age, patients who started PNP treatment with brand name medication showed greater persistence and adherence to treatment than those taking generic drugs. Brand name treatment also involved lower healthcare costs, and greater pain relief.