Current pain and headache reports
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Curr Pain Headache Rep · Feb 2007
ReviewIntravenous lidocaine for neuropathic pain: diagnostic utility and therapeutic efficacy.
Lidocaine is a use-dependent sodium channel blocker that produces analgesia when administered intravenously to patients with neuropathic pain. This article reviews the role and limitations of intravenous lidocaine infusions for neuropathic pain. ⋯ However, the data supporting diagnostic infusions remain sparse. Therapeutically, infusions should generally be restricted to patients with neuropathic pain who are unable to take oral medication.
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The paroxysmal facial pain of trigeminal neuralgia is notoriously severe. Recent advances in medical science are achieving significant strides toward alleviating this incapacitating condition. ⋯ Further developments also in targeted neurosurgical and radiosurgical techniques are providing pain relief within increasingly wider margins of safety. Much has been accomplished, yet much remains to be done.