The present study analyzed the preventive effect of 50 mg/day of Pregabalin on postoperative neuropathic pain and any additional benefits related to sleep and respiratory function.

The study included lung resection patients, 20–89 years of age and randomized them to the treatment (Pregabalin; initial dose, 50 mg/day) or control (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) group. The treatment group received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and Pregabalin (25 mg, twice daily) from the second postoperative day. 

The study assessed Pain scores, neuropathic pain, analgesic use, respiratory function, and insomnia scale scores for three months after surgery.

The study included 46 patients, each in the treatment and control groups. Pregabalin patients experienced significantly less postoperative neuropathic pain than control patients, along with a shorter duration of neuropathic pain. Both groups showed similar onset of postoperative neuropathic pain, insomnia scale scores, and respiratory function. None reported any pregabalin-related adverse events.

This study describes that Pregabalin (50 mg/day) possesses a preventive effect on postoperative neuropathic pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) without side effects. Early administration of postoperative Pregabalin would prevent neuropathic pain and provide better pain control after thoracic surgery.

J Thorac Dis. 2019 Mar;11(3):694-701. doi: 10.21037/jtd.2019.02.77. PMID: 31019756; PMCID: PMC6462706.