New options for neuropathy?

DutchgirlRN, ASN, RN · Oct 13, 2006

My father has Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and as a result from all the Chemo has developed terrible neuropathy in his hands and especially his feet. He has went to doctor after doctor. He has been seen in pain clinics, physical therapy clinics, etc.. Does anyone know of treatments that actually work? He is on a lot of meds, none of which seem to help.

I have a friend with the same problem. He has had IV lidocaine through a port-a-cath 24/7 at home. Didn't help much and made his mouth and tongue numb. He's had IV Dilaudid 24/7 at home, he stayed stoned all the time. He has had the best results from Fentanyl patches and Fentanyl in a new form called Actiq (?). He still rates his pain as a 7.5

He is going to have an Interthecal pump inserted next week. Also next month is going to a neuropathy specialist at the mayo clinic. This poor man has lost his job due to his chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy. Thank God his wife's job provides the medical insurance. I'll let you know what happens.

P_RN, ADN, RN · Oct 14, 2006

The lidocaine patch 12h a day helps. Actiq (buccal fentanyl) is also helpful. Fentanyl patches are good but they don't go to work immediately. There are also spinal cord stimulators. I take Amitrip. for peripheral neuropathy in my left leg. A tiny dose (10 mg) at bedtime does wonders. Nursing 2005 had a good series on new pain management options. I don't have the site right now but will look for it for you.

slinkeecat · Oct 14, 2006

I just started taking LYRICA for the neuropathy I am experiencing down both legs and feet. I have been on it for a month and I am so pleased w/ the results. It has helped me so much. I am finally feeling my toes for the first time in years... I have diabetic neuropathy....

DutchgirlRN, ASN, RN · Oct 14, 2006

Thanks, I'd appreciate that 2005 article on pain management. He has been on Lyrica (HUGE dose), IV IGG, IV Prednisone, IV Lidocaine, IV Dilaudid, Mepergan, Valium, the list goes on....He has neuropathy so bad that his urethra burns and he injects lidocaine gel into his member several times per day.

AfloydRN, BSN, RN · Oct 15, 2006

My dad's already on Lyrica no change yet. He has been on it a few months now. I'm just afraid he will fall because he is so unsteady. He says he can't feel his feet on the floor sometimes.