Comparison The Effects of Duloxetine and Nortriptyline On Diabetic Neuropathy-Related Pain Control Download PDF

Diabetic neuropathy is considered as one of the most common complications in both types of diabetes. The neuropathy associated with type 2 diabetes is estimated about 45% with pain, numbness, hypoesthesia, tingling and paraesthesia. The aim of this study was comparison of the analgesic effects of duloxetine and nortriptyline in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Methods In this clinical trial study, 54 diabetic patients with neuropathy manifestation were subjected to treat with 25-75 mg/d nortriptyline for 3 months. After one month treatment disruption, 60 mg/dl duloxetine administered of additional 3 months. Investigation and interpretation of pain were performed based on Visual Analogue Scale. Results Analogue Scale score of patients after being treated with duloxetine and nortriptyline were 2.5 ± 1.35 and 3.2 ± 1.54, respectively (p<0.05). No sex-related significant differences were observed (p=0.823). The mean Visual Analogue Scale score was also 3.9 ± 1.2 (p<0.05) after one month drug discontinuation. Conclusion: Duloxetine is more effective with lower side effects for pain control in diabetic neuropathy compared to nortriptyline.