Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: Recognition and Management

The occurrence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is linked to poor glycemic control over time. While most people never develop diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) as a consequence of DPN, enough of them do that we must have effective options for the management of this disabling condition. Two years ago there were no formally approved medications for the treatment of DPNP, and now there are two medications with Food and Drug Administration approval for DPNP. One of these medications, duloxetine has been established to significantly improve pain and to address depression by its reuptake inhibition of norepinephrine and serotonin. This article examines the epidemiology of DPNP, its underlying pathogenesis, necessary evaluation methods, and treatment options available with a focus on the role of duloxetine.