Neuropathy Treatment and Diagnosis 3

Question 1

Which medication class is considered first-line for neuropathic pain?

Accepted Answer

Gabapentinoids (gabapentin, pregabalin)

Answer

Gabapentin and pregabalin are first-line agents that reduce abnormal nerve signaling in neuropathic pain.

Question 2

Duloxetine, used for diabetic neuropathy pain, belongs to which drug class?

Accepted Answer

SNRI antidepressant

Answer

Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) FDA-approved for diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.

Question 3

Which topical agent derived from chili peppers can relieve localized neuropathic pain?

Accepted Answer

Capsaicin

Answer

Capsaicin depletes substance P in nerve endings, reducing localized neuropathic pain.

Question 4

Why are opioids generally not preferred as first-line neuropathic pain treatment?

Accepted Answer

Risk of dependence and limited long-term benefit

Answer

Opioids carry addiction risk and offer limited durable relief, so they are reserved rather than first-line.

Question 5

Which tricyclic antidepressant is sometimes used in low doses for neuropathic pain?

Accepted Answer

Amitriptyline

Answer

Low-dose amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, can reduce neuropathic pain by modulating pain pathways.

Neuropathy Practice Test