摘要
[Objectives]To observe the effects of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction on pain behaviors in rat models of postherpetic neuralgia(PHN)and analyze potential mechanisms.[Methods]Twenty SD rats with PHN models induced by intraplantar injection of 50μL(6×106)varicella-zoster virus(VZV)into the left hind paw were randomly divided into two groups(n=10 each)using a random number table:the model group(PHN group)and the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group.From day 7 after inoculation,the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group received oral gavage of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction twice daily for 14 days,while the PHN group received an equal volume of 0.9%saline.Thermal withdrawal latency(TWL)and mechanical withdrawal threshold(MWT)were measured at 1,4,7,14,and 21 d after inoculation.Pain-related behaviors(vocalization,scratching,and licking/biting of the hind paw)were recorded.[Results]Compared with the PHN group,the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group exhibited significantly prolonged TWL and increased MWT at days 14 and 21(P<0.05).At day 4 post-inoculation,both groups showed marked pain-related behaviors(e.g.,vocalization,scratching,licking/biting).These behaviors persisted until day 21 in the PHN group but significantly decreased in the Huanglian Jiedu Decoction group at days 14 and 21(P<0.05).[Conclusions]Huanglian Jiedu Decoction reduces pain sensitivity and alleviates pain-related behaviors in PHN model rats.The mechanism may involve elevating pain thresholds and decreasing pain conduction velocity.
