Question

The most appropriate drug suitable as first-line pharmacotherapy for diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain is _______

• A. Aspirin
• B. Pregabalin
• C. Ibuprofen
• D. Acetaminophen

Hint:

Pregabalin and gabapentin are commonly used for neuropathic pain, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept:
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy causes nerve pain due to long-term damage to peripheral nerves in diabetes mellitus.

Step 1: Nature of neuropathic pain.
Neuropathic pain is different from ordinary inflammatory pain. It may feel like burning, tingling, electric shock, numbness, or shooting pain.

Step 2: Role of pregabalin.
Pregabalin is commonly used for neuropathic pain. It binds to the \(\alpha_2\delta\) subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels and reduces release of excitatory neurotransmitters.

Step 3: Why NSAIDs are not preferred.
Aspirin and ibuprofen are useful for inflammatory pain, but they are not the best first-line therapy for neuropathic pain.

Step 4: Acetaminophen comparison.
Acetaminophen is useful for mild pain and fever, but it is not the preferred drug for diabetic neuropathic pain.

Step 5: Final answer.
Therefore, pregabalin is the most appropriate first-line pharmacotherapy. \[ \boxed{\text{Pregabalin}} \]