Neuropathy Secondary to Drugs

Alternate Names : Drug-Induced Polyneuropathies, Drug-Induced Neuropathy

What are the treatments for the disease?

Once the neuropathy is diagnosed, the medication causing the problem may be stopped, reduced in dose, or changed to another medication.

Pain caused by neuropathy may be treated with medications that are normally used to control seizures, depression, or pain. Sometimes topical agents on the skin are used. These agents may actually increase the pain in the beginning of treatment. Then, a person may feel a decrease in the pain associated with the neuropathy.

A person with loss of sensation should be instructed on safety measures to prevent injury. He or she should regularly examine the affected area for injury and seek treatment as needed.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects depend on the medication used, but may include allergic reactions and drowsiness.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Unfortunately, treatments are not very effective. Only about 25% of each treatment may work each time it is tried.

How is the disease monitored?

The health care provider will monitor blood levels of medication used that may cause neuropathy. The goal is to maintain the amount of medication needed to treat the condition, while preventing toxic levels of the medication.