Could a cheap epilepsy drug ease chronic nerve pain?
NCT ID NCT02100046
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether ethosuximide, a drug already used for epilepsy, can reduce pain in people with nerve damage. 114 adults with peripheral neuropathic pain took either the drug or a placebo for 42 days. Researchers measured pain levels and quality of life to see if the drug offers a new, affordable option.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
ethosuximide (Zarontin)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a new, affordable treatment option for nerve pain that doesn't respond to current medications.
What could go wrong
This is an early Phase 2 trial with only 114 people, so results may not apply to everyone. Ethosuximide is an epilepsy drug and may cause side effects like drowsiness or stomach upset.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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CHU de Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrand, 63003, France