Comparison of pregabalin and placebo effects in treating eye pain following cataract surgery by phacoemulsification method

Abstract

Background: Cataract surgery sometimes is associated with adverse effects, such as dryness, burning, and patient discomfort. This study evaluates the treatment of dry eye syndrome and pain caused by corneal damage following cataract surgery with pregabalin compared to placebo. Method: In our double-blind clinical trial a total of 60 cases were divided into two groups. The pain score was assessed by the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and the impact of pain and dryness on the patient's performance was evaluated by the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI). The patient's pain score was evaluated postoperatively and followed for 6 weeks after the procedure. Results: After the sixth week of the study NRS, BPI, and photophobia in the pregabalin group were significantly different from the placebo group. Conclusion: Pregabalin can significantly reduce chronic and resistant eye pain after cataract surgery.

Keywords

• pregabalin
• eye pain
• cataract surgery