The influence of thiamin on the efficacy of pregabalin in rats with spinal nerve ligation (SNL)-induced neuropathic pain

OBJECTIVE: The thiamin is often used in the treatment of neuropathy, and pregabalin is often used to treat neuropathic pain. Our study examined the influence of thiamin on the efficacy of pregabalin in a rat model of spinal nerve ligation (SNL)-induced neuropathic pain. METHODS: Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into six groups. The neuropathic pain-relieving properties were measured by plantar test, cold plate test, and hot plate test after administration of pregabalin (i.v) and/or thiamin (i.p) in SNL rats 14 days after operation. RESULTS: In the therapy period, pregabalin, or thiamin alone all produced antinociceptive effects in rats with neuropathic pain. And combination treatment of thiamin and pregabalin resulted in an enhanced pain relief compared to the administration of pregabalin or thiamin alone. CONCLUSION: Combination of thiamin and pregabalin produces an additive antinociceptive effect in neuropathic pain rats, this drug combination may offer a beneficial treatment option for neuropathic pain.