What is a recommended treatment for neuropathic pain in stroke patients?

Anticonvulsants like gabapentin are considered a recommended treatment for neuropathic pain in stroke patients because they specifically target nerve pain mechanisms. Neuropathic pain is often characterized by a range of symptoms including burning, tingling, and shooting pain due to nerve damage or dysfunction, a common occurrence following a stroke. Gabapentin and similar medications help to stabilize nerve activity and reduce the hyperexcitability often present in neuropathic pain conditions.

While nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids are commonly used for pain management, they are generally more effective for nociceptive pain rather than neuropathic pain. Muscle relaxants may provide temporary relief for muscle spasms or cramping but do not directly address the underlying issues related to neuropathic pain. Therefore, the use of anticonvulsants like gabapentin is supported by research and clinical practice as a first-line treatment for managing neuropathic pain in patients who have experienced a stroke.