Neuroleptic drugs are often prescribed to help patients with nerve type pain (which typically shows as leg pain) and for patients who have neuropathy (degeneration of the nerves). These drugs can also be helpful for patients who have continued leg pain after surgery.
While it is not well understood why they help relieve pain, patients may take neuroleptic drugs safely for prolonged periods of time. They are not addictive and are well tolerated by most patients. As an example of a neuroleptic medication, gabapentin (e.g. Neurontin) is commonly prescribed in dosages of 300-400mg taken three times daily. Side effects may include fatigue, dizziness, or nausea.
By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., MD
Updated March 2, 2005
