1
|
Thouaye M, Yalcin I. Neuropathic pain: From actual pharmacological treatments to new therapeutic horizons. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 251:108546. [PMID: 37832728 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain, caused by a lesion or disease affecting the somatosensory system, affects between 3 and 17% of the general population. The treatment of neuropathic pain is challenging due to its heterogeneous etiologies, lack of objective diagnostic tools and resistance to classical analgesic drugs. First-line treatments recommended by the Special Interest Group on Neuropathic Pain (NeuPSIG) and European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) include gabapentinoids, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and selective serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Nevertheless these treatments have modest efficacy or dose limiting side effects. There is therefore a growing number of preclinical and clinical studies aim at developing new treatment strategies to treat neuropathic pain with better efficacy, selectivity, and less side effects. In this review, after a brief description of the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and limitations of current therapeutic drugs, we reviewed new preclinical and clinical targets currently under investigation, as well as promising non-pharmacological alternatives and their potential co-use with pharmacological treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Thouaye
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ipek Yalcin
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France; Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Toma W, Paris JJ, Warncke UO, Nass SR, Caillaud M, McKiver B, Ondo O, Bagdas D, Bigbee J, Knapp PE, Hauser KF, Damaj MI. Persistent sensory changes and sex differences in transgenic mice conditionally expressing HIV-1 Tat regulatory protein. Exp Neurol 2022; 358:114226. [PMID: 36096180 PMCID: PMC10053560 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
HIV-associated sensory neuropathies (HIV-SN) are prevalent in >50% of patients aged over 45 years many of which report moderate to severe chronic pain. Previous preclinical studies have investigated the mechanisms by which HIV-1 causes sensory neuropathies and pain-like behaviors. The aim of the present study is to delineate the role of chronic HIV-1 trans-activator of transcription protein (Tat) exposure in the development of neuropathy in mice. The temporal effects of conditional Tat expression on the development of hypersensitivity to mechanical (von Frey filaments) and thermal (heat or cold) stimuli were tested in male and female mice that transgenically expressed HIV-1 Tat in a doxycycline-inducible manner. Inducing Tat expression produced an allodynic response to mechanical or cold (but not heat) stimuli that respectively persisted for at least 23-weeks (mechanical hypersensitivity) or at least 8-weeks (cold hypersensitivity). Both allodynic states were greater in magnitude among females, compared to males, and mechanical increased hypersensitivity progressively in females over time. Acute morphine or gabapentin treatment partly attenuated allodynia in males, but not females. Irrespective of sex, Tat reduced intraepidermal nerve fiber density, the mean amplitude of sensory nerve action potentials (but not conductance), engagement in some pain-related ethological behaviors (cage-hanging and rearing), and down-regulated PPAR-α gene expression in lumbar spinal cord while upregulating TNF-α expression in dorsal root ganglion. Taken together, these data reveal fundamental sex differences in mechanical and cold hypersensitivity in response to Tat and demonstrate the intractable nature in female mice to current therapeutics. Understanding the role of Tat in these pathologies may aid the design of future therapies aimed at mitigating the peripheral sensory neuropathies that accompany neuroHIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wisam Toma
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jason J Paris
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, USA; Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, USA
| | - Urszula O Warncke
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Sara R Nass
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Martial Caillaud
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Bryan McKiver
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Olivia Ondo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Deniz Bagdas
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - John Bigbee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Pamela E Knapp
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Kurt F Hauser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Institute for Drug and Alcohol Studies, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - M Imad Damaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; Translational Research Initiative for Pain and Neuropathy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Motwani L, Asif N, Patel A, Vedantam D, Poman DS. Neuropathy in Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Review of the Underlying Pathogenesis and Treatment. Cureus 2022; 14:e25905. [PMID: 35844323 PMCID: PMC9278792 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
This article explores the various causes of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and its associated neuropathy, including the effects of HIV on the nervous system and the long-standing therapy that is often provided to patients with HIV. Several studies regarding the neurotoxic effects of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) and HIV were reviewed and various hypotheses were discussed. Furthermore, we present the nature of HIV-sensory neuropathy (HIV-SN) among different demographic populations and their subsequent risk factors predisposing them to this condition. It was observed that the incidence of the disease increases in increased survival of the patients as well as in males. Finally, the current approach to HIV-SN and its overlapping features with other causes of peripheral neuropathy have been discussed which demonstrates that a clinical examination is the most important clue for a healthcare professional to suspect the disease. Our main aim was to study the current perspectives and guidelines for diagnosing and managing a patient with HIV-SN to reduce disease prevalence and bring about a more aware frame of mind when following up with an HIV patient.
Collapse
|
4
|
Julian T, Rekatsina M, Shafique F, Zis P. Human immunodeficiency virus-related peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Neurol 2020; 28:1420-1431. [PMID: 33226721 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated neurological syndromes occur in affected individuals as a consequence of primary HIV infection, opportunistic infections, inflammation and as an adverse effect of some forms of antiretroviral treatment (ART). The aim of this systematic review was to establish the epidemiological characteristics, clinical features, pathogenetic mechanisms and risk factors of HIV-related peripheral neuropathy (PN). METHODS A systematic, computer-based search was conducted using the PubMed database. Data regarding the above parameters were extracted. Ninety-four articles were included in this review. RESULTS The most commonly described clinical presentation of HIV neuropathy is the distal predominantly sensory polyneuropathy. The primary pathology in HIVPN appears to be axonal rather than demyelinating. Age and treatment with medications belonging in the nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase class are risk factors for developing HIV-related neuropathy. The pooled prevalence of PN in patients naïve to ARTs was established to be 29% (95% CI: 9%-62%) and increased to 38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 29%-48%) when looking into patients at various stages of their disease. More than half of patients with HIV-related neuropathy are symptomatic (53%, 95% CI: 41%-63%). Management of HIV-related neuropathy is mainly symptomatic, although there is evidence that discontinuation of some types of ART, such as didanosine, can improve or resolve symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Human immunodeficiency virus-related neuropathy is common and represents a significant burden in patients' lives. Our understanding of the disease has grown over the last years, but there are unexplored areas requiring further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Julian
- Medical School, The University of Sheffield, Broomhall, Sheffield, UK.,Academic Directorate of Neurosciences, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Martina Rekatsina
- Whipps Cross University Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Faiza Shafique
- Academic Directorate of Neurosciences, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Robbins JL, Phillips KD, Dudgeon WD, Hand GA. Physiological and Psychological Correlates of Sleep in HIV Infection. Clin Nurs Res 2016; 13:33-52. [PMID: 14768766 DOI: 10.1177/1054773803259655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Insomnia, a common problem associated with HIV disease, is most likely caused by a multitude of factors. This study investigated the correlations between a selected group of physiological and psychological factors and sleep quality in an HIV-infected population. A convenience sample of 79 ethnically diverse HIV-positive adults, ages 24 to 63, completed a number of questionnaires and released their laboratory records for CD4+ cell count and viral load information. Variables significantly related to sleep quality were HIV-related symptoms, total pain, fatigue, depression, state anxiety, and the number of adults in the household. Findings support the need for health care providers to consider factors that contribute to impaired sleep when developing effective care for HIV-infected individuals with sleep disturbance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Robbins
- School of Public Health, Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathies are the most common neurological manifestations occurring in HIV-infected individuals. Distal symmetrical sensory neuropathy is the most common form encountered today and is one of the few that are specific to HIV infection or its treatment. The wide variety of other neuropathies is akin to the neuropathies seen in the general population and should be managed accordingly. In the pre-ART era, neuropathies were categorized according to the CD4 count and HIV viral load. In the early stages of HIV infection when CD4 count is high, the inflammatory demyelinating neuropathies predominate and in the late stages with the decline of CD4 count opportunistic infection-related neuropathies prevail. That scenario has changed with the present almost universal use of ART (antiretroviral therapy). Hence, HIV-associated peripheral neuropathies are better classified according to their clinical presentations: distal symmetrical polyneuropathy, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP), mononeuropathies, mononeuropathies multiplex and cranial neuropathies, autonomic neuropathy, lumbosacral polyradiculomyelopathy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-like motor neuropathy. Treated with ART, HIV-infected individuals are living longer and are at a higher risk of metabolic and age-related complications; moreover they are also prone to the potentially neurotoxic effects of ART. There are no epidemiological data regarding the incidence and prevalence of the peripheral neuropathies. In the pre-ART era, most data were from case reports, series of patients, and pooled autopsy data. At that time the histopathological evidence of neuropathies in autopsy series was almost 100%. In large prospective cohorts presently being evaluated, it has been found that 57% of HIV-infected individuals have distal symmetrical sensory neuropathy and 38% have neuropathic pain. It is now clear that distal symmetrical sensory neuropathy is caused predominantly by the ART's neurotoxic effect but may also be caused by the HIV itself. With a sizeable morbidity, the neuropathic pain caused by distal symmetrical sensory neuropathy is very difficult to manage; it is often necessary to change the ART regimen before deciding upon the putative role of HIV infection itself. If the change does not improve the pain, there are few options available; the most common drugs used for neuropathic pain are usually not effective. One is left with cannabis, which cannot be recommended as routine therapy, recombinant human nerve growth factor, which is unavailable, and topical capsaicin with its side-effects. Much has been done to and learned from HIV infection in humans; HIV-infected individuals, treated with ART, are now dying mostly from cardiovascular disease and non-AIDS-related cancers. It hence behooves us to find new approaches to mitigate the residual neurological morbidity that still impacts the quality of life of that population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Alain Gabbai
- Department of Neurology, UNIFESP-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Phillips TJC, Cherry CL, Cox S, Marshall SJ, Rice ASC. Pharmacological treatment of painful HIV-associated sensory neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. PLoS One 2010; 5:e14433. [PMID: 21203440 PMCID: PMC3010990 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2010] [Accepted: 11/13/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Significant pain from HIV-associated sensory neuropathy (HIV-SN) affects ∼40% of HIV infected individuals treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART). The prevalence of HIV-SN has increased despite the more widespread use of ART. With the global HIV prevalence estimated at 33 million, and with infected individuals gaining increased access to ART, painful HIV-SN represents a large and expanding world health problem. There is an urgent need to develop effective pain management strategies for this condition. METHOD AND FINDINGS OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of analgesics in treating painful HIV-SN. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES Medline, Cochrane central register of controlled trials, www.clinicaltrials.gov, www.controlled-trials.com and the reference lists of retrieved articles. SELECTION CRITERIA Prospective, double-blinded, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the pharmacological treatment of painful HIV-SN with sufficient quality assessed using a modified Jadad scoring method. REVIEW METHODS Four authors assessed the eligibility of articles for inclusion. Agreement of inclusion was reached by consensus and arbitration. Two authors conducted data extraction and analysis. Dichotomous outcome measures (≥ 30% and ≥ 50% pain reduction) were sought from RCTs reporting interventions with statistically significant efficacies greater than placebo. These data were used to calculate RR and NNT values. RESULTS Of 44 studies identified, 19 were RCTs. Of these, 14 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Interventions demonstrating greater efficacy than placebo were smoked cannabis NNT 3.38 95%CI(1.38 to 4.10), topical capsaicin 8%, and recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF). No superiority over placebo was reported in RCTs that examined amitriptyline (100mg/day), gabapentin (2.4 g/day), pregabalin (1200 mg/day), prosaptide (16 mg/day), peptide-T (6 mg/day), acetyl-L-carnitine (1g/day), mexilitine (600 mg/day), lamotrigine (600 mg/day) and topical capsaicin (0.075% q.d.s.). CONCLUSIONS Evidence of efficacy exists only for capsaicin 8%, smoked cannabis and rhNGF. However,rhNGF is clinically unavailable and smoked cannabis cannot be recommended as routine therapy. Evaluation of novel management strategies for painful HIV-SN is urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tudor J. C. Phillips
- Department of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine L. Cherry
- Centre for Virology, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sarah Cox
- Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J. Marshall
- East Kent Hospitals University Foundation Trust and Pilgrims Hospices, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew S. C. Rice
- Department of Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lee K, Vivithanaporn P, Siemieniuk RA, Krentz HB, Maingat F, Gill MJ, Power C. Clinical outcomes and immune benefits of anti-epileptic drug therapy in HIV/AIDS. BMC Neurol 2010; 10:44. [PMID: 20565780 PMCID: PMC2902446 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2377-10-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are frequently prescribed to persons with HIV/AIDS receiving combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) although the extent of AED use and their interactions with cART are uncertain. Herein, AED usage, associated toxicities and immune consequences were investigated. Methods HIV replication was analysed in proliferating human T cells during AED exposure. Patients receiving AEDs in a geographically-based HIV care program were assessed using clinical and laboratory variables in addition to assessing AED indication, type, and cumulative exposures. Results Valproate suppressed proliferation in vitro of both HIV-infected and uninfected T cells (p <0.05) but AED exposures did not affect HIV production in vitro. Among 1345 HIV/AIDS persons in active care between 2001 and 2007, 169 individuals were exposed to AEDs for the following indications: peripheral neuropathy/neuropathic pain (60%), seizure/epilepsy (24%), mood disorder (13%) and movement disorder (2%). The most frequently prescribed AEDs were calcium channel blockers (gabapentin/pregabalin), followed by sodium channel blockers (phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine) and valproate. In a nested cohort of 55 AED-treated patients receiving cART and aviremic, chronic exposure to sodium and calcium channel blocking AEDs was associated with increased CD4+ T cell levels (p <0.05) with no change in CD8+ T cell levels over 12 months from the beginning of AED therapy. Conclusions AEDs were prescribed for multiple indications without major adverse effects in this population but immune status in patients receiving sodium or calcium channel blocking drugs was improved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathy Lee
- Southern Alberta Clinic, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kellinghaus C, Engbring C, Kovac S, Möddel G, Boesebeck F, Fischera M, Anneken K, Klönne K, Reichelt D, Evers S, Husstedt IW. Frequency of seizures and epilepsy in neurological HIV-infected patients. Seizure 2008; 17:27-33. [PMID: 17618132 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2007.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2007] [Revised: 05/20/2007] [Accepted: 05/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated both with infections of the central nervous system and with neurological deficits due to direct effects of the neurotropic virus. Seizures and epilepsy are not rare among HIV-infected patients. We investigated the frequency of acute seizures and epilepsy of patients in different stages of HIV infection. In addition, we compared the characteristics of patients who experienced provoked seizures only with those of patients who developed epilepsy. METHODS The database of the Department of Neurology, University of Münster, was searched for patients with HIV infection admitted between 1992 and 2004. Their charts were reviewed regarding all available sociodemographic, clinical, neurophysiological, imaging and laboratory data, therapy and outcome. Stage of infection according to the CDC classification and the epileptogenic zone were determined. RESULTS Of 831 HIV-infected patients treated in our department, 51 (6.1%) had seizures or epilepsy. Three of the 51 patients (6%) were diagnosed with epilepsy before the onset of the HIV infection. Fourteen patients (27%) only had single or few provoked seizures in the setting of acute cerebral disorders (eight patients), drug withdrawal or sleep withdrawal (two patients), or of unknown cause (four patients). Thirty-four patients (67%) developed epilepsy in the course of their HIV infection. Toxoplasmosis (seven patients), progressive multifocal leukencephalopathy (seven patients) and other acute or subacute cerebral infections (five patients) were the most frequent causes of seizures. EEG data of 38 patients were available. EEG showed generalized and diffuse slowing only in 9 patients, regional slowing in 14 patients and regional slowing and epileptiform discharges in 1 patient. Only 14 of the patients had normal EEG. At the last contact, the majority of the patients (46 patients=90%) were on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Twenty-seven patients (53%) were on anticonvulsant therapy (gabapentin: 14 patients, carbamazepine: 9 patients, valproate: 2 patients, phenytoin: 1 patient, lamotrigine: 1 patient). Patients with only provoked seizures had no epilepsy risk factors except HIV infection, and were less likely to be infected via intravenous drug abuse. CONCLUSIONS Seizures are a relevant neurological symptom during the course of HIV infection. Although in some patients seizures only occur provoked by acute disease processes, the majority of patients with new onset seizures eventually develops epilepsy and require anticonvulsant therapy. Intravenous drug abuse and the presence of non-HIV-associated risk factors for epilepsy seem to be associated with the development of chronic seizures in this patient group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Kellinghaus
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Damage to a nerve should only lead to sensory loss. While this is common, the incidence of spontaneous pain, allodynia and hyperalgesia indicate marked changes in the nervous system that are possible compensations for the loss of normal function that arises from the sensory loss. Neuropathic pain arises from changes in the damaged nerve which then alter function in the spinal cord and the brain and lead to plasticity in areas adjacent to those directly influenced by the neuropathy. The peripheral changes drive central compensations so that the mechanisms involved are multiple and located at a number of sites. Nerve damage increases the excitability of both the damaged and undamaged nerve fibres, neuromas and the cell bodies in the dorsal root ganglion. These peripheral changes are substrates for the ongoing pain and the efficacy of excitability blockers such as carbamazepine, lamotrigine and mexiletine, all anti-convulsants. A better understanding of ion channels at the sites of injury has shown important roles of particular sodium, potassium and calcium channels in the genesis of neuropathic pain. Within the spinal cord, increases in the activity of calcium channels and the receptors for glutamate, especially the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, trigger wind-up and central hyperexcitability. Increases in transmitter release, neuronal excitability and receptive field size result from the damage to the peripheral nerves. Ketamine and gabapentin/pregabalin, again with anti-convulsant activity, may interact with these mechanisms. Ketamine acts on central spinal mechanisms of excitability whereas gabapentin acts on a subunit of calcium channels that is responsible for the release of pain transmitters into the spinal cord. In addition to these spinal mechanisms of hyperexcitability, spinal cells participate in a spinal-supraspinal loop that involves parts of the brain involved in affective responses to pain but also engages descending excitatory and inhibitory systems that use the monoamines. These pathways become more active after nerve injury and are the site of action of anti-depressants. This chapter reviews the evidence and mechanisms of drugs, both anti-depressants and anti-convulsants, that are believed to be effective in pain control, with a major emphasis on the neuropathic state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A H Dickenson
- Dept. Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
|
12
|
Hahn K, Arendt G, Braun JS, von Giesen HJ, Husstedt IW, Maschke M, Straube ME, Schielke E. A placebo-controlled trial of gabapentin for painful HIV-associated sensory neuropathies. J Neurol 2005; 251:1260-6. [PMID: 15503108 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-004-0529-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2003] [Revised: 04/27/2004] [Accepted: 05/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Painful HIV-associated sensory neuropathies (HIV-SN) are a common complication of HIV infection. The pathogenesis is unknown and the treatment very limited. Gabapentin (GBP) is effective in painful diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia and its effectiveness on painful HIV-SN has been reported anecdotally. DESIGN Multicenter, prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. METHODS Patients were followed for a 1-week screening, a 4-week double-blind and a 2-week open treatment phase. GBP was initiated at 400 mg/d, titrated over 2 weeks to 1200 mg/d, and then either maintained at this level or-if not beneficial-titrated to 2400 mg/d. After 4 weeks the medication was unblinded and the patient had the choice to begin, to maintain or to increase GBP to 3600 mg/d. The primary outcome measure was an improvement in median pain on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) from the screening week compared to the 4(th) treatment week. A secondary efficacy measure was the median sleep score (VAS). RESULTS 15 patients received GBP and 11 placebo. In each group one patient dropped out during the doubleblind phase. Median pain (GBP 5.1; placebo 4.7) and sleep score (GBP 4.5; placebo 5.6) did not differ between both groups at baseline. In the GBP-group there was a significant decrease of the pain to 2.85 (-44.1 %) as well as of the sleep VAS to 2.3 (-48.9 %). No significant decrease in the pain (median VAS=3.3, -29.8 %) as well as in the sleep score (median VAS=4.95, -11.6 %) was observed in the placebo-group. GBP was generally well tolerated. The most frequent side effect was somnolence reported in 80% of GBP-treated patients. CONCLUSIONS GBP was more effective than placebo in reducing pain and sleep interference in patients with HIV-SN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Hahn
- Department of Neurology, Charité Campus Mitte, Schumannstr. 20/21, D-10117 Berlin, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Youle M. HIV-Associated Antiretroviral Toxic Neuropathy (ATN): A Review of Recent Advances in Pathophysiology and Treatment. Antivir Ther 2005. [DOI: 10.1177/135965350501002s14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mike Youle
- Royal Free Centre for HIV Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kutzen HS. Integration of Palliative Care into Primary Care for Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients. Am J Med Sci 2004; 328:37-47. [PMID: 15254440 DOI: 10.1097/00000441-200407000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Palliative care for patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) includes components of pain and symptom management, advance care planning, prioritization of life goals, and the support of individuals and families throughout the entire continuum of the disease. There are numerous social stressors such as stigma, infected family members and caregivers, loss of housing and independent living, and the increasing influence of substance use in all communities. Because many barriers prevent those with advanced disease from getting comprehensive pain and symptom management as well as option planning, it is important for all HIV care providers to improve their knowledge, sensitivity, and competence regarding this aspect of care. This article provides an overview of critical issues in palliative care and information on how best to improve HIV primary care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harlee S Kutzen
- HIV Division, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans 70112, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mullin P, Green G, Bakshi R. Special populations: The management of seizures in HIV-positive patients. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2004; 4:308-14. [PMID: 15217546 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-004-0057-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
An increasing percentage of patients with new-onset seizures are HIV positive. The evaluation and management is distinctly different from managing the non-HIV-infected patient. Clinicians must be familiar with comorbid infectious etiologies and the relative value of electroencephalogram, imaging, and serum and cerebrospinal fluid laboratory tests. Traditional antiepileptic drug (AED) therapies are contraindicated and may lead to increased HIV viral replication through either directed cellular mechanisms or interference with antiretroviral therapies. Newer AEDs have pharmacokinetic properties that make them reasonable choices, although none have been specifically studied for efficacy or safety in HIV. Lastly, optimal choice of an AED should reflect commonly encountered neurologic and psychiatric comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Mullin
- Columbia University Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York Neurological Institute, 710 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Höke A, Cornblath DR. Chapter 22 Peripheral neuropathies in human immunodeficiency virus infection. ADVANCES IN CLINICAL NEUROPHYSIOLOGY, PROCEEDINGS OF THE 27TH INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF CLINICAL NEUROPHYSIOLOGY, AAEM 50TH ANNIVERSARY AND 57TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE ACNS JOINT MEETING 2004; 57:195-210. [PMID: 16106620 DOI: 10.1016/s1567-424x(09)70358-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Höke
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fialho D, Cornblath DR. Treatment for human immunodeficiency virus-related distal symmetrical polyneuropathy. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2003. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd004301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Fialho
- Institute of Neurology; Department of Molecular Neuroscience; Queen's Square London UK WC1N 3BG
| | - David R Cornblath
- Johns Hopkins Hospital; Department of Neurology; Meyer-6-181a 500 North Wolfe Street Baltimore Maryland USA 21287-7681
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hicks C, Currier J, Sax P, Sherer R, Wanke C. Current management challenges in HIV: tolerability of antiretrovirals and metabolic complications. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2003; 17:221-33. [PMID: 12816616 DOI: 10.1089/108729103321655872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection has led to substantial reductions in morbidity and mortality. Many regimens, such as those combining three or more antiretroviral agents, result in near-complete suppression of HIV replication. Increased attention to short- and long-term toxicities of antiretroviral therapy reflects a number of factors including the indefinite duration of antiretroviral therapy required to preserve clinical benefit, the variety of antiretrovirals available, the use of antiretrovirals in combinations, and the declining incidence of HIV-associated opportunistic disease. Long-term success requires therapy to be individualized, carefully balancing toxicities with efficacy and resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Hicks
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
|