Clinical Trials for Intervertebral Disc Protrusion
There is currently 1 ongoing clinical trial investigating treatment options for intervertebral disc protrusion. This trial is evaluating the effectiveness of Gabapentin for managing acute nerve pain caused by herniated discs in the lower back. The study is being conducted in France and involves comparing Gabapentin to placebo for short-term pain relief in adults experiencing acute symptoms.
Clinical trial locations
Study on Gabapentin and Placebo for Short-Term Relief of Acute Lower Back Pain from Herniated Disc in Adults
This clinical trial is investigating whether Gabapentin can provide effective short-term pain relief for people suffering from acute lumbosacral radiculopathy, a condition where a herniated disc in the lower back causes nerve pain that radiates down the leg.
Main inclusion criteria: Participants must be at least 18 years old and experiencing lower back and leg pain for less than 3 months. The pain must be at a moderate to severe level, scoring at least 4 out of 10 on a visual pain scale. A CT or MRI scan performed within the last 3 months must confirm a disc herniation that matches the symptoms. Participants need to stay in the hospital for at least 72 hours after enrolling in the study and must have valid health insurance coverage. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during the trial.
Main exclusion criteria: People cannot participate if they have other significant medical conditions that could interfere with the study, are currently taking medications that might affect the results, or have had spinal surgery within the past 6 months. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are excluded, as are individuals with a history of allergic reactions to the study medication. Those participating in another clinical trial, with a history of drug or alcohol abuse, or unable to follow study procedures are also not eligible.
Focus and goal: The trial aims to determine whether Gabapentin is more effective than placebo in reducing acute nerve pain caused by herniated discs over a short period. Researchers will monitor pain levels on days 1, 4, and 7 of treatment using a standardized pain measurement scale. The study will also track any side effects experienced during the first week of treatment to assess the medication’s safety profile.
Investigational drug: Gabapentin is a medication commonly used to relieve nerve pain. In this trial, it is administered as a 300 mg oral capsule. Gabapentin works by affecting how nerves send pain signals to the brain, potentially reducing the intensity of pain. While classified as an anticonvulsant, it is frequently prescribed for managing various types of nerve pain.
Summary
Currently, there is only one active clinical trial for intervertebral disc protrusion, taking place in France. This trial focuses specifically on evaluating Gabapentin for managing acute nerve pain resulting from herniated discs in the lower back. The study is designed to provide quick answers about short-term effectiveness, with a monitoring period of just one week. The trial requires participants to remain hospitalized for at least 72 hours, ensuring close medical supervision during the initial treatment phase. This research may help determine whether Gabapentin offers a viable option for people experiencing acute episodes of disc-related nerve pain.