[shaznics]

Peripheral neuropathy post stem cell transplant

by shaznics on Thu Mar 13, 2014 10:49 pm

Hi All

My husband is now 3 1/2 months post stem cell transplant and having continuous numbness and tingling in his hands and arms which does not appear to be improving. I don't think it is getting worse either.

He is on hardly any medications at the moment and has not had chemo since the transplant. Is it normal for it to continue like this? Also, does anybody have any tips on easing the discomfort?

Really appreciate any feedback/experiences.

Thanks a mil.

[TerryH]

Re: Peripheral neuropathy post stem cell transplant

by TerryH on Fri Mar 14, 2014 12:13 am

Hi shaznics,

Did your husband have the peripheral neuropathy before the transplant as well? If so, what anti-myeloma drugs was he given before the stem cell transplant?

[shaznics]

Re: Peripheral neuropathy post stem cell transplant

by shaznics on Fri Mar 14, 2014 6:21 pm

Hi TerryH

It only came on after SCT. He was initially on Velcade and dexamethasone.

Thanks

[fetalsono8]

Re: Peripheral neuropathy post stem cell transplant

by fetalsono8 on Mon Mar 17, 2014 11:43 pm

One thing you might consider is R-Alpha Lipoic Acid. This supplement available in Vitamin stores has been used in patients with diabetic neuropathy and in myeloma patients as well. It doesn't work for everyone and may only decrease but not eradicate the symptoms. I take 200 mg three times a day, although the Myeloma clinic in Los Angeles often prescribes as much as 1800 mg day. One thing to note is that there are reports of Alpha Lipoic Acid decreasing the effectiveness of Velcade therapy so some clinics tell their patients to not take ALA on the day of Velcade treatment. There apparently is a difference between the regular ALA and the R-ALA, so make sure you get the R-ALA.