The Use of Transdermal Buprenorphine in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases

摘要

Management of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) can be challenging. Various pharmacological approaches have produced mixed results. Buprenorphine activates rnu-opioid receptors and antagonizes kappa and delta receptors, acts at A/-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, and is an orphan-related ligand-1 receptor agonist. It is available in transdermal patches that last for up to 7 days. This report describes two patients with refractory CRPS who were treated with transdermal buprenorphine. The patients experienced approximately 50% reduction in pain intensity scores. Application site rash that occurred was managed with topical steroid spray used before applying the patch.