The findings of a placebo-control and double-blinded clinical trial depicted 5% topical baclofen cream as a possible intervention for alleviation of neuropathic pain in the areas of involvement, as evaluated by Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questions (DN4), with no adverse effects. Shahram Ala et al. undertook this study to investigate a safe and effective topical therapy for neuropathic pain and thus the analgesic effect of topical baclofen was assessed in peripheral neuropathic pain triggered by chronic diabetes mellitus.

In total, 60 known cases of diabetes mellitus, with concomitant diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy based on neuropathic pain diagnostic questionnaire (DN4 score ≥ 4), were recruited to get a 5% cream of baclofen or placebo twice daily for three weeks. On the basis of the DN4 scoring system, people were reassessed weekly. Recording of data was done for subsequent statistical assessment. In total, 27 people were given placebo and 33 people were given  baclofen cream.

The primary assessment revealed a better outcome in baseline, and third week for the baclofen group in comparison with the placebo group. Following adjustment for underlying diseases and gender, no profound differences were noted between the two groups for DN4 scores in any of the follow-ups. In both groups, there was a considerable drop in DN4 scores. In any of the study volunteers, no adverse effect was noted.

Thus, a 5% topical baclofen cream is beneficial for the management of neuropathic pain in people suffering from diabetic peripheral neuropathy.