Robert is suffering from chronic neuropathic pain.

Case study | 28 Mar 2024

Neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain (also called nerve pain or neuralgia) specifically refers to pain due to damage in the nervous system, which causes pain impulses to arise that have no function. It can result from damage to a single nerve, a bundle of nerves, the spinal cord, or the brain. Neuropathic pain often occurs on only one side of the body, either the left or the right. It is almost always a chronic condition; the pain can last from weeks to months or years and is sometimes even permanent.

Robert is suffering neuropathic pain

Robert (age 60) suffers from neuropathic pain. His Visual Analogue Scale pain score is a 9/10. “My pain feels like pins and needles, like my body parts have been dipped in acid. The pain has a negative impact on the quality of my life.” Robert’s pain is usually continuous. On top of that, he frequently experiences very unexpected pain spikes. “I often have pain at night. This disrupts my sleep to the point that I am unable to go to work.” His chronic pain is beginning to take its toll, and his social contact has dropped to a minimum.

The challenge

The oral treatment with NSAIDs, antiepileptics, and antidepressants that Robert has been treated with is partially effective but produces intolerable side effects such as persistent numbness, drowsiness, and nausea. “I also find it unpleasant to take different pills several times a day. And on top of that, it’s a challenge not to forget one of the many pills. If I forget to take them, the anesthesia disappears and the pain increases disproportionately again.”

The solution

Because Fagron offers unique solutions for the individualized treatment of patients, people like Robert can be helped. Robbert’s pharmacist looked at Robert’s special needs, he prescribed the Pentravan cream to Robert. He formulated a vanishing transdermal cream that leaves no sticky residue. The transdermal administration of these drugs results in effective analgesic concentrations at the drug site while minimizing rapid systemic peak concentrations. As a result, the risk of side effects is minimized. All three drugs are administered with each application. “This way I don’t have to take several pills a day. With this compound cream, my pain is now well controlled. My overall functioning is much better now. I have gone back to work and I am enjoying my time with friends again, sometimes almost pain-free.”

Compounding

  • Amitriptyline 2%, Gabapentin 4% and Ketoprofen 10% in Pentravan®

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