Help researchers learn more about a potential new treatment for nerve pain caused by Shingles, also known as Postherpetic Neuralgia.
What is the purpose of this study?
This study aims to assess the efficacy of a potential new treatment for Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN) versus placebo in the management of PHN-related pain.
What is Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)?
PHN is the most common complication of shingles. The condition affects nerve fibres and skin, causing burning pain that lasts long after the rash and blisters of shingles disappear. It has been estimated that approximately one in five people with shingles will get PHN, with those aged 50 and over particularly at risk. Many people with PHN make a full recovery within a year. But symptoms occasionally last for several years or may be permanent.
The main symptom of PHN is nerve pain in an area of your skin that was previously affected by shingles. The pain may come and go or be continuous, and might be described as burning, stabbing, shooting, aching, throbbing or like electric shocks.
The affected area may also:
- Feel intensely itchy
- Be more sensitive to pain than usual
- Feel painful as a result of something that would not normally hurt, such as a light touch or cool breeze
Who can take part in this study?
In order to be eligible to participate in the study, you must meet all of the following:
- You are aged 18 years or older.
- You are experiencing nerve pain that has persisted for at least 3 months after the shingles rash has healed.
- You are willing and able to comply with e-diary data collection and to attend 10 scheduled study visits over the course of 14 weeks.
Who is unable to take part in this study?
Unfortunately, if you meet any of the following, this study is not the right fit for you:
- Anyone who has other pains that cannot be clearly differentiated from PHN.
How long will the study take?
If you agree to take part, and the study is suitable for you, your participation in the study is expected to last up to 14 weeks. This includes:
- Screening period (maximum 4 weeks)
- Drug treatment period (including two 4-week treatment periods separated by a 1-week washout period),
- 1-week safety follow-up period
- 10 visits to the trial site
Where is my nearest study site?
Here is a list of all of the sites who are currently recruiting for this study:
- ACT, Canberra – Paratus Clinical Research Canberra (Bruce)
- NSW, Sydney – Paratus Clinical Research Western Sydney (Blacktown)
- NSW, Broadmeadow – Genesis Research Services
- SA, Adelaide – PARC Clinical Research
- QLD, Brisbane – Paratus Clinical Research Brisbane (Albion)
What if I have other questions about the study?
Contact the Evrima: Patient Experience team today at patientexperience@evrima.com.au or visit their website
