Evaluating The Effect Of Pregabalin In The Treatment Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to determine the effectiveness of pregabalin for control of symptoms in mild to moderate idiopathic Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods: In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 146 mild to moderate idiopathic CTS patients were randomized into pregabalin (n=74) and placebo group (n=72). Per protocol analysis was done in 131 patients; pregabalin (n=65) and placebo (n=66). Drug titration dose was 50 mg once daily for 1st week, twice daily for 2nd week and thrice daily for next 6 weeks. Primary outcome included change in Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) and Functional Status Scale (FSS) of Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire after 8th week. Secondary outcome was the change in clinical and electrophysiological grading after 8 weeks of therapy. Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in the mean SSS (14.92±3.72 vs. 16.55±4.45; P=0.025) and FSS (10.77±2.64 vs. 12.0±2.55; P=0.007) in the pregabalin group after 8 weeks. Mean clinical and electrophysiological grading changed significantly from 2.3±0.7 to 2.1±0.8 (P=0.001) and 1.9±0.7 to 1.8±0.8 (P=0.020) respectively in pregabalin group but not in placebo group. Discussion: This study demonstrates that pregabalin is effective in ameliorating symptoms and improving functional outcomes in mild to moderate idiopathic CTS.