Pharmacodynamics of pregabalin and gabapentin as pain treatment in cervical and lumbar radiculopathy in adults

Abstract

The general objective to analyze the pharmacodynamics of Pregabalin and Gabapentin as pain treatment in cervical and lumbar radiculopathy in adult patients of the Neurosurgery service at the Central Hospital of Maracay, Aragua State, Venezuela, during the period from April to September 2024.Materials and Methods An observational, evaluative, prospective and longitudinal study was conducted. The sample consisted of 21 patients, divided into two groups: Group A (n=14) treated with Gabapentin 300 mg and Group B (n=7) treated with Pregabalin 75 mg. The results the mean age was 52.07 ± 10.4 years in Group A and 47.71 ± 7.8 years in Group B (p = 0.300). Most patients were women (78.57% in Group A and 85.71% in Group B, p = 1,000). Both treatments significantly reduced pain (Gabapentin: 7.07 ± 2.2 to 4.78 ± 2.8; Pregabalin: 7.00 ± 2.2 to 5.28 ± 12.2, p = 0.813). Muscle strength improved in both groups, but did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.055). Sensitivity improved in both groups, however, it was lower in the Pregabalin group after treatment (p = 0.029). Adverse events were more frequent in the Pregabalin group (57.14%) compared to Gabapentin (42.86%, p = 0.659). In conclusion, both Pregabalin and Gabapentin are effective in reducing pain in patients with cervical and lumbar radiculopathy. Pregabalin had a higher incidence of adverse effects, which should be considered when choosing treatment. An individualized approach and ongoing follow-up are recommended to optimize neuropathic pain management.