Role of voltage-gated sodium channel blockers in the treatment of chronic pain: Potential uses in clinical practice based on available evidence

Abstract

Once patients have failed first line therapy, there is an apparent lack of knowledge on how to proceed with choosing subsequent therapy. To choose amongst alternative agents, an understanding of pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and available evidence in targeting various pain conditions is necessary. This article focuses on the use of the carboxamide class of voltage-gated sodium channel blockers (carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, eslicarbazepine acetate) for adjunct pain medication management; including research updates in pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and evidence for pain along on this therapeutic group with promising future areas of research. Although evidence for voltage-gated sodium channel blockers in chronic pain management is limited, emerging research has identified this area as promising for additional clinical trials to better guide clinical practice.

Keywords: Acetato de eslicarbazepina; Adjunct therapy; Bloqueadores de los canales de sodio; Carbamazepina; Carbamazepine; Chronic pain management; Eslicarbazepine acetate; Manejo del dolor crónico; Oxcarbazepina; Oxcarbazepine; Sodium channel blockers; Tratamiento adyuvante.