Information of Diabetes Peripheral Neuropathy

 

Diabetes peripheral neuropathy is a complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by a loss of sensation in the extremities, typically in a stocking-and glove pattern. Recent reports suggest that peripheral neuropathy affects 16% of patients with diabetes, but 12.5% of them don’t report the symptoms. Untreated peripheral diabetic neuropathy (PDN) can be disabling, greatly affecting quality of life with specific effects on functionality, mood and sleep patterns.

 

The American Society of Pain Educators released a consensus guideline on the treatment of peripheral neuropathy in 2006, but it does not provide guidance about tier 1 agents, which are usually generic drugs with lower out-of-pocket costs to patients.

 

Although the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) published treatment recommendations in 2011, the document incorporates medication cost as an interdependent factor rather than a priority in treatment decision making.

 

To enhance adherence to therapy, factors such as affordability,

comorbidities, treatment goals, current medications and side effect profile should be considered. These factors interdependently contribute to the suitability of a regimen for a particular patient.