Peripheral Neuropathy meds?? - Neuropathy Message Board

joss1000 · 07-03-2003, 01:08 PM

I've had PN Peripheral Neuropathy for over 3 years. I've tried Neurontin with no relief from the body aches, feet and hands throbbing, tingling and burning sensations. My only releif has been from Oxycontin, but I hope to find something not addicting. At one time I was able to use less oxy combined with amitriptyline I believe, or Lamictal, I can't remember. I had bad reactions to the Duragesic patches and hope someone with same condition can suggest an alternative that may help. Mine is quite severe and my doses are large. My doctors know less than I do and seem to just continue whatever the one before did. Please help. joss1000

DanP · 07-03-2003, 03:15 PM

Hi Joss100. I am a newbie here. Have had Idiopathic Painful Sensory Peripheral Neuropathy with Chronic Generalized Moderate to Severe Pain in my legs and feet and the same gradually beginning in my hands. I've had this for 15+ years and I am 71 years old.

Isn't is strange how a medication differs from one person to the other? I've been using the Duragesic Patch (started with the 50 strength - now using 100 strength) for about 2 years and it has worked extremely well for me. On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the worst, my pain is on average a 2. The patch has permitted me to live a relatively normal life. I have no side effects, no 'highs' or drugged feeling, my eyes are clear, hands are steady and I have full control of all my faculties. I drive my car without incident and I walk 1 1/2 to 2 miles everyday rain or shine! I get by with only the use of a cane and lead a relatively normal life for a man of my age.

Addiction to strong opioid medications is rare when true chronic moderate to severe pain is present. One may very well become DEPENDENT on such a medication but there is a big difference between dependency and addiction and knowledgable physicians are fortunately now well aware of this. I do hope that PNers will have their pain level evaluated and if chronic moderate to severe pain is present that appropriate pain relievers are administered. The agony of this type pain should no longer have to be endured.

I strongly recommend you find a physician that is experienced in treating pain...especially PN pain. No one knows your body better than you and you are you own best advocate. You might want to seek out a Pain Management Clinic. Sometimes it takes a combination of meds to bring PN pain under control and this takes patience on your part as well as an EXPERIENCED physician who understands the complexities of chronic severe pain. Do whatever it takes to find relief...you deserve it. Good luck.
DanP

BrianKosh · 07-20-2003, 09:55 PM

this is going to sound like a rather stupid comment, and because of the tos of this board (no offense), I can't say much of anything about this. The actor/comedian Jerry Lewis suffers from chronic pain, and has found a device, which I guess is Implanted within him, and he pushes a button for relief. Would this kind of pain relief (not being a drug) work for conditions such as yours, or am I entirely out in left field..? ( it wouldn't be the first, won't be the last.). For any other info on the device, you will have to look it up. (no, it won't work for everyone, and it is in no way a cure..)

kevin69 · 07-25-2003, 02:58 PM

i've been in a wheelchair and disabled for over 2 yrs.due to perpheral neuropathy.the oxycontin&oxycodone along with 1600mg. of neurotin is all that works for me.i understand your concern about addicted but like my doc. says i have to take it the rest of my life to be somewhat pain free so not much of a choice.good luck, kevin

Earnestii5 · 07-25-2003, 07:16 PM

Kevin,I have neuropathy and have been in a power chair for 16 months.That medication is pretty expensive is'nt it?So far I have not found any thing to control my pain.

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Earnest