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Nobili S, Micheli L, Lucarini E, Toti A, Ghelardini C, Di Cesare Mannelli L. Ultramicronized N-palmitoylethanolamine associated with analgesics: Effects against persistent pain. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108649. [PMID: 38615798 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Current epidemiological data estimate that one in five people suffers from chronic pain with considerable impairment of health-related quality of life. The pharmacological treatment is based on first- and second-line analgesic drugs, including COX-2 selective and nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, paracetamol, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs and opioids, that are characterized by important side effects. N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) is a body's own fatty-acid ethanolamide belonging to the family of autacoid local injury antagonist amides. The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of PEA have been recognized for decades and prompted to depict its role in the endogenous mechanisms of pain control. Together with its relative abundance in food sources, this opened the way to the use of PEA as a pain-relieving nutritional intervention. Naïve PEA is a large particle size lipid molecule with low solubility and bioavailability. Reducing particle size is a useful method to increase surface area, thereby improving dissolution rate and bioavailability accordingly. Micron-size formulations of PEA (e.g., ultramicronized and co-(ultra)micronized) have shown higher oral efficacy compared to naïve PEA. In particular, ultramicronized PEA has been shown to efficiently cross the intestinal wall and, more importantly, the blood-brain and blood-spinal cord barrier. Several preclinical and clinical studies have shown the efficacy, safety and tolerability of ultramicronized PEA. This narrative review summarizes the available pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data on ultramicronized PEA and focuses to its contribution to pain control, in particular as 'add-on' nutritional intervention. Data showing the ability of ultramicronized PEA to limit opioid side effects, including the development of tolerance, have also been reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Nobili
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - Laura Micheli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Lucarini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra Toti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Carla Ghelardini
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Di Cesare Mannelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health - NEUROFARBA - Pharmacology and Toxicology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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Schweiger V, Schievano C, Martini A, Polati L, Del Balzo G, Simari S, Milan B, Finco G, Varrassi G, Polati E. Extended Treatment with Micron-Size Oral Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) in Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2024; 16:1653. [PMID: 38892586 PMCID: PMC11174044 DOI: 10.3390/nu16111653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) emerged over the years as a promising approach in the management of chronic pain. Despite the fact that the efficacy of micron-size PEA formulations appears to be time-dependent, the optimal timing has not yet been elucidated. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to estimate the possible advantage of an extended treatment in the relief of chronic pain. The literature search was conducted consulting scientific databases, to identify clinical trials in which micron-size PEA was administered for at least 60 days, and pain assessed by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) or Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Nine studies matched the required criteria, for a total of 742 patients involved. The meta-analysis showed a statistically and clinically significant pain intensity reduction after 60 days of micron-size PEA supplementation, compared to 30 days (1.36 points, p < 0.01). The secondary analysis revealed a weighted NRS/VAS score decrease of 2.08 points within the first month of treatment. These two obtained scores corresponded to a 35.1% pain intensity reduction within the first month, followed by a further 35.4% during the second month. Overall, these results confirm the clinically relevant and time-depended pain-relieving effect of micron-size PEA and therefore the advantage of an extended treatment, especially in patient with incomplete pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Schweiger
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.M.); (L.P.); (S.S.); (B.M.); (E.P.)
| | | | - Alvise Martini
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.M.); (L.P.); (S.S.); (B.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Luca Polati
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.M.); (L.P.); (S.S.); (B.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Giovanna Del Balzo
- Department of Medicine and Public Health, Section of Forensic Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Simari
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.M.); (L.P.); (S.S.); (B.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Beatrice Milan
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.M.); (L.P.); (S.S.); (B.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Gabriele Finco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | | | - Enrico Polati
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.M.); (L.P.); (S.S.); (B.M.); (E.P.)
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Shekhar A, Srivastava A, Verma N, Verma A, Chaturvedi TP. The Comparative Efficacy of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) With the Combination of Pregabalin and Nortriptyline on Post-extraction Trigeminal Neuropathy by Using Magnetic Resonance (MR) Neurography: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Cureus 2024; 16:e54843. [PMID: 38533175 PMCID: PMC10963896 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim The aim of this randomized clinical trial is to compare the efficacy of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) with the combination of pregabalin and nortriptyline in treating post-extraction trigeminal neuropathy using magnetic resonance neurography (MRN). Methods The present prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted on 60 patients (20 in each group). In group I (positive control group), a combination of 75 mg of pregabalin and 10 mg of nortriptyline was administered once daily for the duration of 12 weeks. In group II, 600 mg of palmitoylethanolamide was given twice a day. In group III, a combination therapy of the abovementioned drugs was given. The efficacy of the drug was assessed by measuring pain intensity in terms of the numeric rating scale (NRS) (primary outcome) and changes (signal intensity and nerve thickness) in magnetic resonance neurography (secondary outcome) at various intervals of time. The data was collected and subjected to statistical analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Armonk, NY) at the significance level of P<0.05. Results A significant decrease in post-drug mean NRS scores was observed in all three groups. In terms of reduction in the mean NRS, the combination group showed the highest reduction. Palmitoylethanolamide significantly reduces pain scores with negligible side effects. Conclusion Palmitoylethanolamide helps in the reduction of mild to moderate pain of painful post-traumatic trigeminal neuropathy (PTTN) with minimal side effects, suggesting that it may be used where the use of the conventional drug is either contraindicated or not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amlendu Shekhar
- Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, IND
| | - Adit Srivastava
- Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, IND
| | - Nimisha Verma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, IND
| | - Ashish Verma
- Department of Radiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, IND
| | - T P Chaturvedi
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, IND
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Scuteri D, Guida F, Boccella S, Palazzo E, Maione S, Rodríguez-Landa JF, Martínez-Mota L, Tonin P, Bagetta G, Corasaniti MT. Effects of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) on Nociceptive, Musculoskeletal and Neuropathic Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Evidence. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081672. [PMID: 36015298 PMCID: PMC9414729 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Some 30−50% of the global population and almost 20% of the European population actually suffer from chronic pain, which presents a tremendous burden to society when this pain turns into a disability and hospitalization. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has been demonstrated to improve pain in preclinical contexts, but an appraisal of clinical evidence is still lacking. The present study aimed at addressing the working hypothesis for the efficacy of PEA for nociceptive musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain in the clinical setting. The systematic search, selection and analysis were performed in agreement with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 recommendations. The primary outcome was pain reduction, as measured by a pain assessment scale. The secondary outcome was improvement in quality of life and/or of parameters of function. The results obtained for a total of 933 patients demonstrate the efficacy of PEA over the control (p < 0.00001), in particular in six studies apart from the two randomized, double-blind clinical trials included. However, the results are downgraded due to the high heterogeneity of the studies (I2 = 99%), and the funnel plot suggests publication bias. Efficacy in achieving a reduction in the need for rescue medications and improvement in functioning, neuropathic symptoms and quality of life are reported. Therefore, adequately powered randomized, double-blind clinical trials are needed to deepen the domains of efficacy of add-on therapy with PEA for chronic pain. PROSPERO registration: CRD42022314395.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiana Scuteri
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (G.B.); Tel.: +39-0984-493462 (D.S. & G.B.)
| | - Francesca Guida
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Boccella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Palazzo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
- IRCSS, Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Juan Francisco Rodríguez-Landa
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Instituto de Neuroetología, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa 91190, Mexico
- Facultad de Química Farmacéutica Biológica, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa 91001, Mexico
| | - Lucia Martínez-Mota
- Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City 03440, Mexico
| | - Paolo Tonin
- Regional Center for Serious Brain Injuries, S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy
| | - Giacinto Bagetta
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (G.B.); Tel.: +39-0984-493462 (D.S. & G.B.)
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Zeraatkar D, Cooper MA, Agarwal A, Vernooij RWM, Leung G, Loniewski K, Dookie JE, Ahmed MM, Hong BY, Hong C, Hong P, Couban R, Agoritsas T, Busse JW. Long-term and serious harms of medical cannabis and cannabinoids for chronic pain: a systematic review of non-randomised studies. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e054282. [PMID: 35926992 PMCID: PMC9358949 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish the prevalence of long-term and serious harms of medical cannabis for chronic pain. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CENTRAL from inception to 1 April 2020. STUDY SELECTION Non-randomised studies reporting on harms of medical cannabis or cannabinoids in adults or children living with chronic pain with ≥4 weeks of follow-up. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS A parallel guideline panel provided input on the design and interpretation of the systematic review, including selection of adverse events for consideration. Two reviewers, working independently and in duplicate, screened the search results, extracted data and assessed risk of bias. We used random-effects models for all meta-analyses and the Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach to evaluate the certainty of evidence. RESULTS We identified 39 eligible studies that enrolled 12 143 adult patients with chronic pain. Very low certainty evidence suggests that adverse events are common (prevalence: 26.0%; 95% CI 13.2% to 41.2%) among users of medical cannabis for chronic pain, particularly any psychiatric adverse events (prevalence: 13.5%; 95% CI 2.6% to 30.6%). Very low certainty evidence, however, indicates serious adverse events, adverse events leading to discontinuation, cognitive adverse events, accidents and injuries, and dependence and withdrawal syndrome are less common and each typically occur in fewer than 1 in 20 patients. We compared studies with <24 weeks and ≥24 weeks of cannabis use and found more adverse events reported among studies with longer follow-up (test for interaction p<0.01). Palmitoylethanolamide was usually associated with few to no adverse events. We found insufficient evidence addressing the harms of medical cannabis compared with other pain management options, such as opioids. CONCLUSIONS There is very low certainty evidence that adverse events are common among people living with chronic pain who use medical cannabis or cannabinoids, but that few patients experience serious adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dena Zeraatkar
- Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Adam Cooper
- Michael G. Degroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arnav Agarwal
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robin W M Vernooij
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gareth Leung
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Kevin Loniewski
- Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jared E Dookie
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Muhammad Muneeb Ahmed
- Michael G. Degroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian Y Hong
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chris Hong
- Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patrick Hong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel Couban
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas Agoritsas
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Division of Epidemiology, University Hospitals Geneva, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Jason W Busse
- Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Tan HL, Smith JG, Hoffmann J, Renton T. A systematic review of treatment for patients with burning mouth syndrome. Cephalalgia 2022; 42:128-161. [PMID: 34404247 PMCID: PMC8793318 DOI: 10.1177/03331024211036152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burning mouth syndrome is a chronic idiopathic intractable intraoral dysaesthesia that remains a challenge to clinicians due to its poorly understood pathogenesis and inconsistent response to various treatments. AIM This review aimed to study the short- (≤3 months) and long-term (>3 months) effectiveness and sustainable benefit of different burning mouth syndrome treatment strategies and the associated side effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Randomised controlled trials of burning mouth syndrome treatment compared with placebo or other interventions with a minimum follow up of 2 months were searched from the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane database (published to July 2020). RESULTS Twenty-two studies were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and analysed. Nine categories of burning mouth syndrome treatment were identified: Anticonvulsant and antidepressant agents, phytomedicine and alpha lipoic acid supplements, low-level laser therapy, saliva substitute, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and cognitive behaviour therapy. Cognitive behaviour therapy, topical capsaicin and clonazepam, and laser therapy demonstrated favourable outcome in both short- and long-term assessment. Phytomedicines reported a short-term benefit in pain score reduction. The pooled effect of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) pain score improvement was low, but its positive effects increased in long term assessment. CONCLUSION A more significant volume in terms of sample size, multi-centres, and multi-arm comparison of therapeutic agents with placebo and longitudinal follow-up studies is recommended to establish a standardised burning mouth syndrome treatment protocol. Further studies are required to assess the analgesic benefits of topical clonazepam and capsaicin, alternative medicines with neurodegenerative prevention capability and psychology support in treating burning mouth syndrome and reducing systemic adverse drug reactions.Registration International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO):Protocol ID - CRD42020160892.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huann Lan Tan
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Science, King’s College London, London, UK
- Faculty of Dentistry, The National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jared G Smith
- Population Health Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, UK
| | - Jan Hoffmann
- Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- NIHR-Wellcome Trust King’s Clinical Research Facility/SLaM Biomedical Research Centre, King’s College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Tara Renton
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Science, King’s College London, London, UK
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Fibromyalgia: Pathogenesis, Mechanisms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options Update. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22083891. [PMID: 33918736 PMCID: PMC8068842 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic and widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by other symptoms, such as fatigue, intestinal disorders and alterations in sleep and mood. It is estimated that two to eight percent of the world population is affected by fibromyalgia. From a medical point of view, this pathology still presents inexplicable aspects. It is known that fibromyalgia is caused by a central sensitization phenomenon characterized by the dysfunction of neuro-circuits, which involves the perception, transmission and processing of afferent nociceptive stimuli, with the prevalent manifestation of pain at the level of the locomotor system. In recent years, the pathogenesis of fibromyalgia has also been linked to other factors, such as inflammatory, immune, endocrine, genetic and psychosocial factors. A rheumatologist typically makes a diagnosis of fibromyalgia when the patient describes a history of pain spreading in all quadrants of the body for at least three months and when pain is caused by digital pressure in at least 11 out of 18 allogenic points, called tender points. Fibromyalgia does not involve organic damage, and several diagnostic approaches have been developed in recent years, including the analysis of genetic, epigenetic and serological biomarkers. Symptoms often begin after physical or emotional trauma, but in many cases, there appears to be no obvious trigger. Women are more prone to developing the disease than men. Unfortunately, the conventional medical therapies that target this pathology produce limited benefits. They remain largely pharmacological in nature and tend to treat the symptomatic aspects of various disorders reported by the patient. The statistics, however, highlight the fact that 90% of people with fibromyalgia also turn to complementary medicine to manage their symptoms.
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della Rocca G, Gamba D. Chronic Pain in Dogs and Cats: Is There Place for Dietary Intervention with Micro-Palmitoylethanolamide? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:952. [PMID: 33805489 PMCID: PMC8065429 DOI: 10.3390/ani11040952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of chronic pain is an integral challenge of small animal veterinary practitioners. Multiple pharmacological agents are usually employed to treat maladaptive pain including opiates, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and others. In order to limit adverse effects and tolerance development, they are often combined with non-pharmacologic measures such as acupuncture and dietary interventions. Accumulating evidence suggests that non-neuronal cells such as mast cells and microglia play active roles in the pathogenesis of maladaptive pain. Accordingly, these cells are currently viewed as potential new targets for managing chronic pain. Palmitoylethanolamide is an endocannabinoid-like compound found in several food sources and considered a body's own analgesic. The receptor-dependent control of non-neuronal cells mediates the pain-relieving effect of palmitoylethanolamide. Accumulating evidence shows the anti-hyperalgesic effect of supplemented palmitoylethanolamide, especially in the micronized and co-micronized formulations (i.e., micro-palmitoylethanolamide), which allow for higher bioavailability. In the present paper, the role of non-neuronal cells in pain signaling is discussed and a large number of studies on the effect of palmitoylethanolamide in inflammatory and neuropathic chronic pain are reviewed. Overall, available evidence suggests that there is place for micro-palmitoylethanolamide in the dietary management of chronic pain in dogs and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia della Rocca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Centro di Ricerca sul Dolore Animale (CeRiDA), Università degli Studi di Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Davide Gamba
- Operational Unit of Anesthesia, Centro Veterinario Gregorio VII, 00165 Roma, Italy;
- Freelance, DG Vet Pain Therapy, 24124 Bergamo, Italy
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9
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Petrosino S, Schiano Moriello A. Palmitoylethanolamide: A Nutritional Approach to Keep Neuroinflammation within Physiological Boundaries-A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249526. [PMID: 33333772 PMCID: PMC7765232 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a physiological response aimed at maintaining the homodynamic balance and providing the body with the fundamental resource of adaptation to endogenous and exogenous stimuli. Although the response is initiated with protective purposes, the effect may be detrimental when not regulated. The physiological control of neuroinflammation is mainly achieved via regulatory mechanisms performed by particular cells of the immune system intimately associated with or within the nervous system and named “non-neuronal cells.” In particular, mast cells (within the central nervous system and in the periphery) and microglia (at spinal and supraspinal level) are involved in this control, through a close functional relationship between them and neurons (either centrally, spinal, or peripherally located). Accordingly, neuroinflammation becomes a worsening factor in many disorders whenever the non-neuronal cell supervision is inadequate. It has been shown that the regulation of non-neuronal cells—and therefore the control of neuroinflammation—depends on the local “on demand” synthesis of the endogenous lipid amide Palmitoylethanolamide and related endocannabinoids. When the balance between synthesis and degradation of this bioactive lipid mediator is disrupted in favor of reduced synthesis and/or increased degradation, the behavior of non-neuronal cells may not be appropriately regulated and neuroinflammation exceeds the physiological boundaries. In these conditions, it has been demonstrated that the increase of endogenous Palmitoylethanolamide—either by decreasing its degradation or exogenous administration—is able to keep neuroinflammation within its physiological limits. In this review the large number of studies on the benefits derived from oral administration of micronized and highly bioavailable forms of Palmitoylethanolamide is discussed, with special reference to neuroinflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Petrosino
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Napoli, Italy;
- Epitech Group SpA, Via Einaudi 13, 35030 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Napoli, Italy;
- Epitech Group SpA, Via Einaudi 13, 35030 Padova, Italy
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10
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Synthesis, Molecular Modeling and Biological Evaluation of Metabolically Stable Analogues of the Endogenous Fatty Acid Amide Palmitoylethanolamide. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239074. [PMID: 33260658 PMCID: PMC7730713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) belongs to the class of N-acylethanolamine and is an endogenous lipid potentially useful in a wide range of therapeutic areas; products containing PEA are licensed for use in humans as a nutraceutical, a food supplement, or food for medical purposes for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties demonstrating efficacy and tolerability. However, the exogenously administered PEA is rapidly inactivated; in this process, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) plays a key role both in hepatic metabolism and in intracellular degradation. So, the aim of the present study was the design and synthesis of PEA analogues that are more resistant to FAAH-mediated hydrolysis. A small library of PEA analogues was designed and tested by molecular docking and density functional theory calculations to find the more stable analogue. The computational investigation identified RePEA as the best candidate in terms of both synthetic accessibility and metabolic stability to FAAH-mediated hydrolysis. The selected compound was synthesized and assayed ex vivo to monitor FAAH-mediated hydrolysis and to confirm its anti-inflammatory properties. 1H-NMR spectroscopy performed on membrane samples containing FAAH in integral membrane protein demonstrated that RePEA is not processed by FAAH, in contrast with PEA. Moreover, RePEA retains PEA’s ability to inhibit LPS-induced cytokine release in both murine N9 microglial cells and human PMA-THP-1 cells.
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D’Amico R, Impellizzeri D, Cuzzocrea S, Di Paola R. ALIAmides Update: Palmitoylethanolamide and Its Formulations on Management of Peripheral Neuropathic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155330. [PMID: 32727084 PMCID: PMC7432736 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain results from lesions or diseases of the somatosensory nervous system and it remains largely difficult to treat. Peripheral neuropathic pain originates from injury to the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and manifests as a series of symptoms and complications, including allodynia and hyperalgesia. The aim of this review is to discuss a novel approach on neuropathic pain management, which is based on the knowledge of processes that underlie the development of peripheral neuropathic pain; in particular highlights the role of glia and mast cells in pain and neuroinflammation. ALIAmides (autacoid local injury antagonist amides) represent a group of endogenous bioactive lipids, including palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which play a central role in numerous biological processes, including pain, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. These compounds are emerging thanks to their anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic effects, due to the down-regulation of activation of mast cells. Collectively, preclinical and clinical studies support the idea that ALIAmides merit further consideration as therapeutic approach for controlling inflammatory responses, pain, and related peripheral neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona D’Amico
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.D.); (D.I.); (R.D.P.)
| | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.D.); (D.I.); (R.D.P.)
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.D.); (D.I.); (R.D.P.)
- Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402 South Grand Blvd, St Louis, MO 63104, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-90-6765208
| | - Rosanna Di Paola
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.D.); (D.I.); (R.D.P.)
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12
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Crupi R, Cordaro M, Cuzzocrea S, Impellizzeri D. Management of Traumatic Brain Injury: From Present to Future. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9040297. [PMID: 32252390 PMCID: PMC7222188 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9040297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
TBI (traumatic brain injury) is a major cause of death among youth in industrialized societies. Brain damage following traumatic injury is a result of direct and indirect mechanisms; indirect or secondary injury involves the initiation of an acute inflammatory response, including the breakdown of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), brain edema, infiltration of peripheral blood cells, and activation of resident immunocompetent cells, as well as the release of numerous immune mediators such as interleukins and chemotactic factors. TBI can cause changes in molecular signaling and cellular functions and structures, in addition to tissue damage, such as hemorrhage, diffuse axonal damages, and contusions. TBI typically disturbs brain functions such as executive actions, cognitive grade, attention, memory data processing, and language abilities. Animal models have been developed to reproduce the different features of human TBI, better understand its pathophysiology, and discover potential new treatments. For many years, the first approach to manage TBI has been treatment of the injured tissue with interventions designed to reduce the complex secondary-injury cascade. Several studies in the literature have stressed the importance of more closely examining injuries, including endothelial, microglia, astroglia, oligodendroglia, and precursor cells. Significant effort has been invested in developing neuroprotective agents. The aim of this work is to review TBI pathophysiology and existing and potential new therapeutic strategies in the management of inflammatory events and behavioral deficits associated with TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalia Crupi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy;
| | - Marika Cordaro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100 Messina, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmacological and Environmental Sciences, Messina University, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy;
- Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO 63104, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +390-906-765-208
| | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmacological and Environmental Sciences, Messina University, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy;
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Fotio Y, Aboufares El Alaoui A, Borruto AM, Acciarini S, Giordano A, Ciccocioppo R. Efficacy of a Combination of N-Palmitoylethanolamide, Beta-Caryophyllene, Carnosic Acid, and Myrrh Extract on Chronic Neuropathic Pain: A Preclinical Study. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:711. [PMID: 31316381 PMCID: PMC6610250 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common public health problem that poses a major challenge to basic scientists and health-care providers. NP is a complex problem with an unclear etiology and an often-inadequate response to current medications. Despite the high number of drugs available, their limited pharmacological efficacy and side effects hamper their chronic use. Thus, the search for novel treatments is a priority. In addition to pharmaceuticals, natural extracts and food supplements are often used to help treating patients with NP. One such supplement is Noxiall®, a commercially available combination of N-Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), beta-caryophyllene; carnosic acid and myrrh. Here, we compare the efficacy of Noxiall® to that of the medications gabapentin and pregabalin in the NP model of chronic constriction injury (CCI) using sciatic nerve ligation in mouse. Following CCI, mice developed a significant increase in mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. Results showed that administration of either Noxiall®, pregabalin, or gabapentin significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia. The magnitude of the Noxiall® effect was comparable to that of gabapentin or pregabalin. In addition, co-administration of non-effective doses of pregabalin and Noxiall® resulted in a significant decrease in NP, suggesting an additive efficacy. Noxiall® was efficacious also in reducing CCI-induced thermal hyperalgesia. These findings support the rationale of using natural remedies in conjunction with classical pharmacological agents to treat chronic NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Fotio
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | | | - Anna Maria Borruto
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Samantha Acciarini
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Section of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Universita' Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Unit, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
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Davis MP, Behm B, Mehta Z, Fernandez C. The Potential Benefits of Palmitoylethanolamide in Palliation: A Qualitative Systematic Review. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2019; 36:1134-1154. [PMID: 31113223 DOI: 10.1177/1049909119850807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a nutraceutical endocannabinoid that was retrospectively discovered in egg yolks. Feeding poor children with known streptococcal infections prevented rheumatic fever. Subsequently, it was found to alter the course of influenza. Unfortunately, there is little known about its pharmacokinetics. Palmitoylethanolamide targets nonclassical cannabinoid receptors rather than CB1 and CB2 receptors. Palmitoylethanolamide will only indirectly activate classical cannabinoid receptors by an entourage effect. There are a significant number of prospective and randomized trials demonstrating the pain-relieving effects of PEA. There is lesser evidence of benefit in patients with nonpain symptoms related to depression, Parkinson disease, strokes, and autism. There are no reported drug-drug interactions and very few reported adverse effects from PEA. Further research is needed to define the palliative benefits to PEA.
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Freo U, Romualdi P, Kress HG. Tapentadol for neuropathic pain: a review of clinical studies. J Pain Res 2019; 12:1537-1551. [PMID: 31190965 PMCID: PMC6529607 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s190162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is an enormous burden for patients, caregivers and society. NP is a pain state that may develop after injury of the peripheral or central nervous system because of a wide range of diseases and traumas. A NP symptom component can be found also in several types of chronic pain. Many NP patients are substantially disabled for years. Due to its chronicity, severity and unpredictability, NP is difficult to treat. Tapentadol is a central-acting oral analgesic with combined opioid and noradrenergic properties, which make it potentially suitable for a wide range of pain conditions, particularly whenever a NP component is present or cannot be excluded. In randomized controlled trials, tapentadol has proved to be effective in relieving NP in diabetic peripheral neuropathy and in chronic low back pain. In observational studies, tapentadol reduced NP in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathies, blood and solid cancers, and the NP component in neck pain and Parkinson's disease. This narrative review aims to provide clinicians with a broad overview of tapentadol effects on NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulderico Freo
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Medicine, Department of Medicine DIMED, University of Padua, 35100Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Romualdi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Hans G Kress
- Department of Special Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine, Medical University/AKH of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Coluzzi F, Polati E, Freo U, Grilli M. Tapentadol: an effective option for the treatment of back pain. J Pain Res 2019; 12:1521-1528. [PMID: 31190963 PMCID: PMC6526923 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s190176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Back pain, including low back pain and neck pain, is the leading cause of disability worldwide. This type of pain is challenging to treat, since it presents both a nociceptive and a neuropathic component. The latter also contributes to the evolution of pain toward chronification. Treatment selection should therefore consider the ability to prevent this event. Tapentadol is characterized by a unique and innovative peculiar mechanism of action that makes it the first representative of a new class of central strong analgesics referred to as MOR-NRI. This molecule acts both on the nociceptive and neuropathic components of pain, and it can therefore be effective in the treatment of a mixed pain condition such as back pain. This narrative review discusses the rationale for the use of tapentadol in both low back pain and neck pain and presents available clinical data. Overall, data show that tapentadol prolonged release is a well-grounded treatment for chronic back pain, sustained by a strong mechanistic rationale and robust evidence. Given also the availability of long-term efficacy and safety data, we believe that this molecule should be considered as an elective therapy for chronic back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaminia Coluzzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Unit of Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, SAPIENZA University of Rome - Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy,
| | - Enrico Polati
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Pain Relief Center, Ospedale Policlinico GB Rossi, Verona, Italy
| | - Ulderico Freo
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Medicine, Department of Medicine DIMED University of Padua, 35100 Padua, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Grilli
- Laboratory of Neuroplasticity, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Passavanti MB, Alfieri A, Pace MC, Pota V, Sansone P, Piccinno G, Barbarisi M, Aurilio C, Fiore M. Clinical applications of palmitoylethanolamide in pain management: protocol for a scoping review. Syst Rev 2019; 8:9. [PMID: 30621775 PMCID: PMC6323836 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-018-0934-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) belong to endocannabinoid family, a group of fatty acid amides. PEA has been proven to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity and has been used in several controlled studies focused on the management of chronic pain among adult patients with different underlying clinical conditions. METHODS/DESIGN A literature search will be performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). The population will be patients who have chronic pain, the intervention will be the administration of PEA alone or in combination with other drugs for the pain management; the comparison will be the standard therapy in accordance with the current guidelines for the treatment of pain. The Outcomes will be the reduction of pain not restricted to specific scales laying out the pain outcome data described in the included studies. DISCUSSION This scoping review aims to describe the clinical applications of the PEA in chronic pain management and its outcome. SCOPING REVIEW REGISTRATION Open Science Framework https://osf.io/74tmx/ .
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Beatrice Passavanti
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Aniello Alfieri
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Pace
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pota
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Sansone
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giacomo Piccinno
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Manlio Barbarisi
- Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic and Aging Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Aurilio
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Fiore
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia, 2, 80138, Naples, Italy.
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Petrosino S, Cordaro M, Verde R, Schiano Moriello A, Marcolongo G, Schievano C, Siracusa R, Piscitelli F, Peritore AF, Crupi R, Impellizzeri D, Esposito E, Cuzzocrea S, Di Marzo V. Oral Ultramicronized Palmitoylethanolamide: Plasma and Tissue Levels and Spinal Anti-hyperalgesic Effect. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:249. [PMID: 29615912 PMCID: PMC5870042 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a pleiotropic lipid mediator with established anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic activity. Ultramicronized PEA (PEA-um) has superior oral efficacy compared to naïve (non-micronized) PEA. The aim of the present study was two-fold: (1) to evaluate whether oral PEA-um has greater absorbability compared to naïve PEA, and its ability to reach peripheral and central tissues under healthy and local inflammatory conditions (carrageenan paw edema); (2) to better characterize the molecular pathways involved in PEA-um action, particularly at the spinal level. Rats were dosed with 30 mg/kg of [13C]4-PEA-um or naïve [13C]4-PEA by oral gavage, and [13C]4-PEA levels quantified, as a function of time, by liquid chromatography/atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/mass spectrometry. Overall plasma levels were higher in both healthy and carrageenan-injected rats administered [13C]4-PEA-um as compared to those receiving naïve [13C]4-PEA, indicating the greater absorbability of PEA-um. Furthermore, carrageenan injection markedly favored an increase in levels of [13C]4-PEA in plasma, paw and spinal cord. Oral treatment of carrageenan-injected rats with PEA-um (10 mg/kg) confirmed beneficial peripheral effects on paw inflammation, thermal hyperalgesia and tissue damage. Notably, PEA-um down-regulated distinct spinal inflammatory and oxidative pathways. These last findings instruct on spinal mechanisms involved in the anti-hyperalgesic effect of PEA-um in inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Petrosino
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Napoli, Italy
- Epitech Group SpA, Padova, Italy
| | - Marika Cordaro
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberta Verde
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Aniello Schiano Moriello
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Napoli, Italy
- Epitech Group SpA, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | - Rosalba Siracusa
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessio F. Peritore
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosalia Crupi
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuela Esposito
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, CNR, Napoli, Italy
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