[Pregabalin (Lyrica) and neuropathic pain syndromes].

Pregabalin is a novel central nervous system (CNS) drug with no interaction at benzodiazepine or GABA receptor. Its mechanism of action is correlated with its high affinity for the alpha/delta submit of the voltage-dependant CNS calcium channel. Pregabalin is rapidly absorbed with at least 90% bioavailable irrespective of dose, does not bind to plasma proteins and is excreted virtually unchanged by the kidneys. Pharmacokinetics are linear and predictable across the therapeutic dose range (150-600 mg/ day). Pregabalin is indicated, like gabapentin, in the treatment of neuropathic pain syndromes like post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) and diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN). Efficacy in other neuropathic pain syndromes need further investigations. This paper emphasizes advantages and disadvantages on a clinical point of view.