Atorvastatin as Novel Treatment for Neuropathic Pain

• DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0b013e3182a03c2e
• Publication Date: 2013-07-25T17:02:47Z
• Authors: Jason T. Gillon; Sarah E. Smith; Max R. Lowden
• Keywords: Phantom Limb Pain; Phantom pain

Introduction: Managing neuropathic pain can be very challenging, with standard medical therapies often providing inadequate relief. It has recently been reported in the literature that statins alleviate rat model. We present a case report which an above-the-knee amputee achieved relief of his stump atorvastatin. Case Report: describe 50-year-old man 12-year history chronic and sporadic phantom limb following amputation. For 11 years was managed gabapentin 300 mg 3 times daily plus oxycodone 10 twice daily. He autonomously weaned himself to once daily, exacerbating process. After starting atorvastatin 20 for hypercholesterolemia, he immediately experienced decreased intensity pain, but persisted at its usual intensity. Conclusions: More studies are needed characterize analgesic effects better. In patients who have refractory traditional treatment options or, rather, decline options, statin therapy may helpful.