Neuropathic pain encompasses a myriad of painful disease states that are often hard to treat, especially with one single medication. In the comprehensive treatment of neuropathic pain, the concept of complex polypharmacy is a rational approach, accompanied by physical and mental health therapies. Medications primarily used for neuropathic pain generally fall into the categories of anticonvulsants, antidepressants, opioids, and topical agents. Generally, most first-line medications used today show a response rate of approximately 30% to 50% reduction in pain in up to 50% of patients treated. There is no "gold standard" in regard to one medication for neuropathic pain. Some new medications have emerged during the past few years that help to augment the armamentarium of medications used in neuropathic pain. This paper reviews the definition of neuropathic pain and introduces the reader to the evidence-based literature on these new medications available for the treatment of neuropathic pain.

Chronic pain is a costly and prevalent problem. Pain, itself, is a symptom. Pain has received attention in the form of health care policy reform, development of assessment tools, and treatment protocols. Chronic pain is an ongoing problem that requires constant monitoring and can be challenging to health care providers and patients. Many barriers exist in treating chronic pain, especially when treating with opioid analgesics. Pharmacists can help in the assessment and treatment of chronic pain. This article discusses the impact of chronic pain, barriers to care, and the role of the pharmacist in managing chronic opioid therapy.