Treatment of painful peripheral neuropathy.

Neuropathic pain management is an important aspect in the management of painful peripheral neuropathy. Anticonvulsants and antidepressants have been studied extensively and are often used as first-line agents in the management of neuropathic pain. In this article, data from multiple randomized controlled studies on painful peripheral neuropathies are summarized to guide physicians in treating neuropathic pain. Treatment is a challenge given the diverse mechanisms of pain and variable responses in individuals. However, most patients derive pain relief from a well-chosen monotherapy or well-designed polypharmacy that combines agents with different mechanisms of action.