Expert: Eric Brandt - 12/4/2010

Question
Hello Eric, I'm writing as a response to your comment on Lyrica. My daughter now 12 was diagnosed with RSD Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy 2 years ago. She is no longer in a wheel chair, no longer uses a walker, but pain continues. When she was released she was on 2400,g. Neurontin. We were living in France, and a Pain Specialist there, put her on Lyrica,,at the time it seemed the drug of choice. Now, back in the States, after a short time in remission, the Doctor's here want to increase a dose again, it would seem they are not concerned about adverse affects. I suggested an Rx for THC but they claim there are complications,,I can't imagine any worse than the Lyrica. She's refused a pain shots,,and is tired of being "drugged up". Currently she's able to function moderately,,but we are seeking alternatives to increased medication. Any suggestions ? Full blood panel showed no significant deficiencies. Kindest Regards,Robin

Answer
Hi Robin,
Depending on where the pain is, one can have topical creams and ointments compounded with pregabalin, ketamine and other analgesics that can be applied topically directly to the pain area. I have had experience with that applied to a foot and it worked well.
Thank you for using Allexperts
Sincerely,
Eric Brandt, B.Sc. Pharm