COMPARATIVE STUDY OF EFFICIENCY OF DULOXETINE VERSUS PREGABALIN IN PATIENT OF DIABETIC NEUROPATHY.

Abstract

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common and painful complication of long-standing diabetes mellitus, significantly affecting patient quality of life and increasing the burden on healthcare systems. Duloxetine and Pregabalin are widely used pharmacological agents for managing painful diabetic neuropathy, but comparative studies are essential to guide optimal treatment selection.

Method: A prospective, observational, and analytical study was conducted at S.N. Medical College, Agra, involving 144 patients with clinically diagnosed DPN. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A received Duloxetine 20 mg daily, and Group B received Pregabalin 75 mg daily. Efficacy was assessed using clinical symptom evaluation and nerve conduction studies (NCV) of the common peroneal and median nerves. Follow-ups were conducted at 1, 3, and 6 months. Safety was evaluated through clinical observation and liver and kidney function tests.

Results: Both groups showed improvement in neuropathic symptoms no effect is seen in nerve conduction parameters over the study period. However, overall, there was no significant difference between the two drugs in terms of symptom relief or NCV improvement. Adverse effects were more frequently reported with Duloxetine (nausea, dry mouth), whereas Pregabalin was associated with dizziness and somnolence. A greater percentage of patients reported no side effects in the Pregabalin group (49%) compared to the Duloxetine group (45%).

Conclusion: Both Duloxetine and Pregabalin are effective and safe options for managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Pregabalin showed a slightly better safety profile and tolerability, while both drugs demonstrated comparable efficacy in symptom improvement and nerve conduction outcomes. Pregabalin may be preferred in patients prone to gastrointestinal side effects.