Misuse of gabapentinoids (pregabalin and gabapentin) in patients with neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury

Objective To investigate the misuse of gabapentinoids (pregabalin and gabapentin) in patients with neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury. Study Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Outpatient clinic in a physical therapy and rehabilitation hospital Participants 127 patients, aged 18-70 years, who had neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury (SCI) and disease duration of at least 12 months Outcome Measures Gabapentinoid use disorder of the patients was determined based on the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for substance-related disorders. Patients were divided into 2 groups as those with drug misuse and those without drug misuse. Demographic and clinical information of the patients were compared between the groups. Factors associated with drug misuse were analyzed. Results The misuse rate was 81.9% in patients using pregabalin and 69.69% in patients using gabapentin. Duration of disease and the Leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs (LANSS) score were statistically significantly higher in the drug misuse group. A statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of marital status, education and income level, and smoking and alcohol use. A statistically significant relationship was observed between drug misuse and duration of disease and LANSS score. Conclusion Misuse of gabapentinoids is prevalent in patients with neuropathic pain related to spinal cord injury. The duration of disease and the severity of NP are associated with misuse. Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing gabapentinoids to patients with SCI.