Adenosine, an endogenous antinociceptive compound acting in the centra
l nervous system, was infused intravenously (50-70 mu g/kg/min) to 2 p
atients with peripheral neuropathic pain. In 1 subject, spontaneous pa
in was alleviated, and tactile allodynia was essentially relieved duri
ng 40 min of infusion. Allodynia to warmth and touch were abolished in
the other subject. In addition, hyperalgesia to pinprick was markedly
attenuated as was pressure-induced allodynia. The reported effects la
sted for hours after termination of the infusion. Our preliminary enco
uraging data call for further controlled studies of the potentially re
lieving effect of adenosine in painful neuropathic conditions.