What measures relieve postherpetic neuralgia?

Abstract

Tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentin, and pregabalin effectively reduce pain (strength of recommendation [SOR]: A, at least 2 good-quality randomized controlled trials [RCTs] and/or meta-analyses). Opioids have demonstrated pain relief in 3 RCTs (SOR: A, consistent RCTs). Capsaicin and the lidocaine 5% patch relieve pain and decrease allodynia (SOR: B, recommendations from meta-analyses and lower-quality RCTs).