Gabapentin for nerve pain

[Kaylz1985]

Hi folks! Still fighting the good fight and trying to get appropriate treatment for my other half who has a B12 deficiency that had obviously been going on for some time. The neurological symptoms are extensive and long lasting but latest bloods show "normal" B12 readings. We all know that tends to equal "you're fine, be on your way".

Anyway after a bit of a fight, he had an appointment yesterday with a neurologist who is concerned about his symptoms and is taking his case forward. He has prescribed gabapentin for the tingling and nerve pain and we just wondered if anyone else has had a similar course of treatment and had any success? He feels quite nervous about this particular drug. He continues to self administer B12 from Germany for the time being.

Thanks so much for any advice! This forum is such a welcome place when you feel like you're banging your head against a brick wall!

M 😊

[fbirder]

Although my neuropathy isn't caused by a B12 deficiency, it produces the same sort of pain. I really couldn't survive without my gabapentin (3 x 300 mg a day). The only really bad side effect I get is vivid dreams. Not too bad if they're nice dreams, not very nice if they're unpleasant.

The gabapentin doesn't stop the pain completely. I still had the evil pixie sticking a hot needle into my toes in the evenings. Often it was bad enough to wake me and/or keep me awake much of the night. It was suggested that I take codeine on those bad nights.

Then I read about alpha-lipoic acid being used for diabetic neuropathy. I discussed it with my neurologist and he said it couldn't do any harm. Since starting on 3 x 600 mg a day I've only needed the codeine once in 2.5 years. They make the difference between feeling like I'm walking on gravel and feeling like I'm walking on broken glass.

[Kaylz1985 in reply to fbirder]

Thanks for this! I've just ordered some alpha lipoic acid capsules that arrive tomorrow. Hopefully they help him too!

[clivealive Forum Support]

Hi Kaylz1985 I've had P.A. (one of the causes of Vitamin B12 deficiency) for over 47 years and I'm on a relatively low dose of Gabapentin (2 x 100mg at night) and it certainly has helped suppress the "burning feet" sensation I suffered with.

Fortunately, unlike fbirder I haven't had the unpleasant dreams, but then he is on a far higher daily dosage.

I wish you and your "other half" well.

[nano2]

Daughter is on Gabapentin 3x700mg was 3 x1000 a day now reduced. Tramadol 2 x100mg & Amitrptyline 30mg at night. She was severe deficiency with B12 & Folate she has severe PN fingers lower legs and feet things improving slowly but will be left with Nerve damage. GP & Gastro say no PA because intrinsic factor negative 🙄. I wish you both well x As for banging your head against a brick wall I think majority on this forum have been there with some GPs & Consultants.