Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is one of the treatments commonly used for diabetic neuropathy?

1. Beta-blockers

2. Antidepressants

3. ACE inhibitors

4. Anticonvulsants like gabapentin

The correct answer is: Anticonvulsants like gabapentin

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur with diabetes, often leading to pain and discomfort. One of the treatments that are commonly used for this condition involves anticonvulsants, particularly medications like gabapentin. Gabapentin works by modulating the transmission of nerve signals and reducing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, which can help alleviate neuropathic pain. Anticonvulsants have been found effective in managing the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy due to their ability to stabilize neural membranes and decrease the excessive firing of pain pathways in the nervous system. This makes them a preferred option in pain management specifically for nerve-related conditions. Other treatments, such as antidepressants, can also be used to help with pain relief in some cases, as they have effects on neurotransmitter systems that may contribute to pain perception. However, the use of anticonvulsants like gabapentin is more specifically targeted towards the neuropathic pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and is thus a commonly recommended choice in clinical practice.