How do pain relievers help with neuropathy?

Neuropathy No More By JODI KNAPP Neuropathy No More is an eBook which is a compilation of all the essential information and details about the nervous system and how to keep it active and healthy. With the help of this program, one can get a relief from the symptoms of neuropathy. This eBook not only tells you about the nervous system, but also helps to provide essential information to get relief from the condition of neuropathy. It also provides information about how you can prevent this condition from coming back in the near future.

How do pain relievers help with neuropathy?

How Pain Relievers Help with Neuropathy

Pain relievers are commonly used to manage the discomfort associated with neuropathy. They work by targeting different mechanisms involved in the sensation of pain. Here’s a detailed explanation of how various types of pain relievers help with neuropathy:

1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Relievers

A. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):

Mechanism of Action: NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. This inhibition reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.
Effectiveness: NSAIDs are effective for mild to moderate pain and can reduce inflammation associated with some types of neuropathy, providing symptomatic relief.
Examples: Ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin.

B. Acetaminophen (Tylenol):

Mechanism of Action: Acetaminophen works by inhibiting the COX enzymes in the brain, which reduces the sensation of pain and fever. Unlike NSAIDs, it does not have significant anti-inflammatory properties.
Effectiveness: It is effective for mild to moderate pain relief and is often used for individuals who cannot tolerate NSAIDs.
Examples: Acetaminophen (paracetamol).

2. Prescription Pain Relievers

A. Opioids:

Mechanism of Action: Opioids bind to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body, blocking pain signals and altering the perception of pain. They also release dopamine, which can create a sense of well-being.
Effectiveness: Opioids are used for severe pain that does not respond to other medications. They are effective but carry a high risk of dependency, tolerance, and side effects.
Examples: Morphine, oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), tramadol (Ultram).

3. Antidepressants

A. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs):

Mechanism of Action: TCAs, such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline, work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing their levels. These neurotransmitters are involved in modulating pain signals.
Effectiveness: TCAs are effective for neuropathic pain and can help improve sleep and mood, which are often affected by chronic pain.
Examples: Amitriptyline, nortriptyline, desipramine.

B. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs):

Mechanism of Action: SNRIs, such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor), also increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine by inhibiting their reuptake.
Effectiveness: SNRIs are effective for treating neuropathic pain and can also help with depression and anxiety, which often accompany chronic pain.
Examples: Duloxetine, venlafaxine.

4. Anticonvulsants

A. Gabapentinoids:

Mechanism of Action: Gabapentinoids, such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica), bind to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the nervous system. This reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters and stabilizes neural activity.
Effectiveness: These medications are effective for neuropathic pain and are commonly used for conditions like diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia.
Examples: Gabapentin, pregabalin.

B. Other Anticonvulsants:

Mechanism of Action: Other anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) and lamotrigine (Lamictal), reduce nerve excitability by blocking sodium channels or enhancing GABAergic (inhibitory) neurotransmission.
Effectiveness: These drugs can be effective for certain types of neuropathic pain, such as trigeminal neuralgia.
Examples: Carbamazepine, lamotrigine.

5. Topical Treatments

A. Capsaicin Cream:

Mechanism of Action: Capsaicin cream works by depleting substance P, a neuropeptide involved in transmitting pain signals to the brain. Continued use reduces the amount of substance P, decreasing pain sensations.
Effectiveness: Capsaicin cream is useful for localized neuropathic pain and is often used for conditions like postherpetic neuralgia.
Examples: Capsaicin (Zostrix, Capzasin).

B. Lidocaine Patches:

Mechanism of Action: Lidocaine patches deliver a local anesthetic that numbs the area of application by blocking sodium channels, which prevents the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses.
Effectiveness: These patches are effective for localized neuropathic pain and are commonly used for postherpetic neuralgia.
Examples: Lidocaine patch (Lidoderm).

6. Anti-Anxiety Medications

A. Benzodiazepines:

Mechanism of Action: Benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam (Klonopin), enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has inhibitory effects on the nervous system. This can help reduce anxiety and muscle spasms associated with neuropathic pain.
Effectiveness: These medications can be useful for patients with neuropathic pain that is exacerbated by anxiety or sleep disturbances. However, they carry a risk of dependency and are typically prescribed with caution.
Examples: Clonazepam, diazepam (Valium).

Summary

Pain relievers help manage neuropathic pain by targeting different mechanisms involved in pain perception and transmission. Over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs and acetaminophen provide relief for mild to moderate pain, while prescription medications like opioids are used for more severe pain. Antidepressants and anticonvulsants are effective for neuropathic pain by modulating neurotransmitter levels and stabilizing neural activity. Topical treatments like capsaicin cream and lidocaine patches provide localized pain relief. Anti-anxiety medications can also help manage pain that is accompanied by anxiety or sleep disturbances. A comprehensive approach, often involving a combination of these treatments, is typically necessary to effectively manage neuropathic pain.

Jodi Knapp