Treatment satisfaction and quality of life among neuropathic pain patients: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate treatment satisfaction and quality of life in neuropathic pain patients.

Methods: This cross-sectional study, carried out over eight months at a tertiary care hospital, employed four various tools: patient-reported demographic and clinical data, the Medication Adherence Rating Scale for adherence measurement, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for evaluating pain discomfort, and the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication.

Results: Among 300 participants, 264 fulfilled the inclusion criteria, with an average age of 39.27 years (± 45.25) and 62.12% being male; 50.38% were aged 56 to 75. Diabetes mellitus was the most prevalent comorbidity (32.20%), while 9.47% were obese and 26.51% were overweight. Medication usage indicated that 51.65% of patients were on a combination of pregabalin, nortriptyline, and methylcobalamin, with 11.36% on pregabalin plus nortriptyline. Adherence rates showed that 198 patients had high adherence (75%), while 66 had low adherence (25%). Quality of life assessments revealed significant impacts across SF-36(Short Form Health Survey) domains (p < 0.001), affecting physical functioning, emotional well-being, and social functioning. Additionally, higher treatment satisfaction scores (>50) correlated with improved overall quality of life and general health (p = 0.039).

Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of addressing patient-reported physical and mental challenges, as these factors are closely linked to medication adherence, treatment satisfaction, and overall quality of life. Highly satisfied patients are more likely to adhere to their medication regimen and experience an improved quality of life.