Anti-seizure medication has shown promise in treatment for neuropathic pain. For example, in 2007 Lyrica (pregabalin) was the first drug approved by the FDA to treat fibromyalgia. But the drug was originally developed to treat partial seizures and some kinds of neuropathic pain.
Arthritis Today also mentions the drug Neurontin (gabapentin) as showing hopeful results. Neurontins original function was for the treatment of epilepsy, though it is now more widely used to relieve neuropathic pain.
CNN Health explains further on how anti-seizure drugs help:
The exact mechanism of action isn't fully understood, but anti-seizure medications appear to interfere with the overactive transmission of pain signals sent from damaged nerves.
Some anti-seizure drugs work particularly well for certain conditions. Carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol) is widely prescribed for trigeminal neuralgia, a condition that causes searing facial pain that feels like an electric shock.
It's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning that all anti-seizure drugs are associated with a slightly increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. Talk to a doctor or counselor promptly if you experience feelings of depression or suicidal thoughts.
See the entire report at CNN Health.
