The Effect of Palmitylethanolamide on Central and Peripheral Sensitization After Heat-induced Hyperalgesia

This planned study is based on a randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over design. Palmityhlethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous fatty acid amide from the group of N-Acetylethanolamides, which analgesic, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects can be attributed to this. In clinical studies, PEA has mainly been used as an adjuvant in pain therapy. The previous data show clinical efficacy without conclusions that can be drawn about the underlying mechanisms - these have not yet been investigated in a human experiment. The planned study, which demonstrates the mode of action of PEA using an established pain model on healthy volunteers, will help to assign the efficacy to peripheral or central nervous systems. These mechanisms allow to establish mechanism-oriented therapy approaches. These findings are essential for a better understanding of the clinical efficacy and to evaluate the correct fields of application.