Ganaxolone (3.alpha.-hydroxy-3.beta.-methyl-5.beta.-pregnan-20-one) and 3.alpha.-hydroxy-3.beta.-methyl-5.beta.-pregnan-20-one and their physiologically cleavable esters are useful for treating neuropathic pain. Compositions comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and an appropriate compound, along with methods for preparing the compositions are disclosed. Also disclosed are articles of manufacture wherein the composition is combine with labeling instructions for treating neuropathic pain.