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Nutrient Therapy for Neuropathy
by Lark Lands
Last revision: May 2005
There have been a number of studies that have shown the significant benefit of nutrient therapies for neuropathy associated with HIV/AIDS. And there have been even more showingbenefit for neuropathy that occurs in people living with diabetes. Since it appears likely that atleast some of the mechanisms for the nerve damage may be similar in the two diseases(inflammation and oxidative damage to the nerves combined with nutrient deficiencies), there isreason to believe that therapies which have proven useful for diabetics may also work for peopleliving with HIV who develop neuropathy and vice versa. The same may be true for people who develop neuropathy from other causes such as drug side effects. There are many drugs that can cause neuropathy, including some chemotherapyagents used in the treatment of cancer (including vincristine and many others), the commonlyused antibiotic ciprofloxacin (Cipro), a number of the antiretroviral drugs used to suppress HIV,metronidazole (Flagyl), thalidomide, isoniazid, dapsone, and many others not listed here. Inaddition, alcohol, cocaine, and amphetamines can all cause nerve damage. The therapiesdiscussed here may help to restore drug-damaged nerves. Even when the neuropathy stems fromunknown causes, it appears that this type of nutrient therapy can often help. In the end, thenutrients which are useful for protecting and rebuilding nerves are the same, regardless of theinitial source of the damage.
It is very important to note that nutrient therapy would ideally begin very early, either immediately after the beginning symptoms of neuropathy, or preventively in those who arebeginning drugs known to cause neuropathy. Waiting too long after the appearance of symptomsto begin the nutrients may lessen the chances for complete success. With that said, however, lateis definitely better than never. I have received many reports from people whose long-standingneuropathy did improve substantially with an aggressive nutrient program. Even if theelimination of symptoms is not complete, an ongoing program can help to prevent a worseningof the condition. In such a case, simply staying where you are may be far better than continuingto worsen over time, with ever increasing pain and numbness.
It is also important to remember that for the best results in eliminating neuropathy, the entire disease causing it (diabetes or HIV or any other causative condition) should beaggressively managed. In addition, any drug that might be contributing to neuropathy should beeliminated, where possible, by switching to a different drug that isn’t known to causeneuropathy. With good management of causative diseases and drug switching away from thosethat are known to cause problems, the assault on the nerves will at least be reduced. With HIVand diabetes, good management would include not only appropriate drug therapies but alsoconsuming a nutrient-rich diet and using antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatories to counteroxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body. Regular exercise is also very important. Diabetics should also be doing frequent blood sugar monitoring to help maintain blood sugar at Lark Lands, 1985-2005
Many people living with HIV and/or diabetes, as well as some for whom the exact cause of the neuropathy was never determined, have reported to me that they have successfullyeliminated the problem with some combination of the nutrient therapies discussed here. The bestresults seem to come with an approach that combines at least the B vitamins (and their associatedfactors), acetyl-L-carnitine, gamma-linolenic acid, alpha-lipoic acid, and the thiamine derivativebenfotiamine.
I think that it is very important to understand that this is a problem which may have multiple causes. Thus, the most effective treatment program will address all of these. For manypeople living with HIV/AIDS or diabetes, there are multiple nutrient deficiencies which could becontributing to the vulnerability of the nerves to damage or, in some cases, could be the maincause of neuropathy. Deficiencies of B-12, B-6, magnesium, chromium, fatty acids, and antioxidants are common in both diseases. A program to treat neuropathy needs to replenish allof those nutrients, both through a healthy diet and supplements. In addition, there are high levelsof oxidative stress and inflammation in both diabetes and HIV disease. That means that aneffective program will include the dietary and supplement components that will help counterthose problems.
In addition, HIV itself can damage nerves so for those not currently taking antiretrovirals, the development of neuropathy might point to the need for an effective drug protocol. On theother hand, in many people, there are also the direct assaults on the nerves from neurotoxicdrugs. A number of the nucleoside analogue drugs (“nukes”)—especially the “d” drugs ddC(Hivid), ddI (Videx or Videx EC), and d4T (Zerit or Zerit XR)—have the potential to be nerve-damaging and can cause very serious neuropathy, sometimes very quickly. Addressing this mayrequire changing drugs. At the very least, it will be important for anyone who is taking apotentially neuropathy-causing drug to put in place a program to counter the mitochondrialtoxicity that it may cause.
Recent research has shown that the function of mitochondria (the energy factories inside cells) is affected by the nukes, that HIVers taking antiretrovirals have depletion of mitochondrialDNA (mtDNA, the genetic building block of the mitochondria), and that depletion of mtDNA isgreater in patients with lipodystrophy-associated fat loss (lipoatrophy). It has been shown thatmitochondrial dysfunction may be a cause of fat changes in the body (especially the fat losscalled lipoatrophy), as well as neuropathy, myopathy, pancreatitis, fatty liver, white blood celldecreases, platelet decreases, anemia, and, in its severest form, potentially lethal lactic acidosis, acondition in which lactic acid builds up in the blood, sometimes to life-threatening levels.
Luckily, research has also shown that countering oxidative stress may help prevent this nuke-caused damage. The mitochondria produce lots of free radicals during normal oxidativemetabolism and, especially without sufficient antioxidant protection, the mitochondria may bedamaged. Glaxo Smith Kline researchers have shown that nuke therapy may be associated withoxidative stress as a result of mitochondrial toxicity. In one study, mice were given a nuke eitherwith or without the antioxidants ascorbate (vitamin C) and alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E). Theresearchers found that several metabolic changes, including elevated triglycerides and increasedlactate production (indicative of mitochondrial damage), occurred in high-dose, nuke-treatedanimals, and that concurrent treatment with antioxidants prevented the changes.
Lark Lands, 1985-2005
Studies of gene expression in adipose (fat) tissue also showed the potential value of antioxidant therapy. The expression of genes related to endogenous antioxidant activity weresuppressed with high-dose nuke therapy. In addition, nuke therapy was associated with increasedexpression of TNF mRNA, whose activity promotes oxidative stress, and decreased expressionof PPAR gamma, a key transcription factor for adipogenesis (the formation of fat in the body).
These alterations in gene expression were prevented by antioxidants.
This may seem like more Medspeak than you really wish to struggle with, but the bottom line is that the use of antioxidant nutrients along with nucleoside analogue drugs may well helpto prevent the damaging drug side effects that they might otherwise cause. And the sameantioxidants could also help to counter the oxidative stress of HIV disease, in general, in waysthat could protect the nerves, as well as the immune cells, and slow disease progression.
Diagnosis of either oxidative stress or mitochondrial problems is mostly done only in studies since most of the laboratory assessments that can show either are difficult to do and arenot commonly available to individuals. However, the research-based evidence that theseproblems exist in HIVers is compelling enough that it seems clear that everyone living with thisdisease should be doing whatever is possible to counter them.
There is also a large body of research showing that oxidative stress is a major factor in diabetes, and that countering it may be one of the most important things that can be done toprevent the development of diabetic complications.
Included among the most important nutrients for countering these problems are antioxidant vitamins and minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids. Of particular importance are thenutrients that work together to maintain a healthy level of glutathione (including N-acetyl-cysteine, alpha-lipoic acid, glutamine, selenium, and vitamins C and E). These and the otherimportant antioxidants (including the carotenoids and coenzyme Q-10) are needed to counter theoxidative stress and help reduce the body-wide inflammation that HIV infection and diabetesboth cause. The combination of these antioxidants will also help to counter the mitochondrialtoxicity that is caused by antiretroviral drugs.
For countering mitochondrial toxicity, the amino acid carnitine is also very important.
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a naturally occurring molecule in the body, derived from carnitine. It isinvolved in the normal transportation of free fatty acids into the mitochondria, and the normaloxidation of free fatty acids. Without carnitine, the mitochondria cannot function properly. TheB vitamins are also crucial nutrients for mitochondrial support. Thiamine (vitamin B-1) andriboflavin (vitamin B-2) are both important for intact mitochondrial function. Thiamine is acoenzyme of pyruvate dehydrogenase, and thiamine deficiency can lead to defective pyruvatemetabolism and accumulation of lactate. Riboflavin is converted to flavin mononucleotide anddinucleotide, both serving as necessary cofactors for the electron transport chain. Recent reportssuggest dramatic improvement of lactic acidosis after administration of these vitamins. Thecombination of carnitine, antioxidants and B vitamins may significantly help to countermitochondrial toxicity and all the problems that can stem from that, including neuropathy.
Kees Brinkman, MD, the pioneering researcher on the theory that mitochondrial toxicity is the main way in which nucleoside analogues harm the body, was also the pioneer inrecommending this sort of nutrient combination to counter the toxicity. In one of his studies,serious lactic acidosis (one of the most extreme results of mitochondrial toxicity) was reversed in Lark Lands, 1985-2005
all those given intravenous doses twice daily of L-carnitine (1000 mg) and B complex (anintravenous solution containing 100 mg thiamine, 20 mg riboflavin, 100 mg niacinamide, 10 mgpyridoxine and 10 mg dexpanthenol). This reversal is particularly impressive since lacticacidosis is generally estimated to be fatal in fifty percent of cases. In Dr. Brinkman’s study, allthe patients given these nutrients survived.
Thus, for someone wishing to prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and, thus, help protect the nerves in a way that may prevent neuropathy, the most important nutrients are B vitamins(especially riboflavin and thiamine), antioxidants (a broad spectrum that includes alpha-lipoicacid, N-acetyl-cysteine, selenium, and coenzyme Q-10 would be best), and acetyl-L-carnitine.
The good news in all of the above is that, as you will almost certainly have already noticed, the same nutrients are serving many different functions and contributing in multipleways to help prevent or reverse neuropathy. The antioxidants will help to counter the damagecaused by oxidative stress while also helping prevent mitochondrial damage and inflammation.
The acetyl-carnitine will help protect the mitochondria while also directly supporting nervefunction and protecting nerve membranes. The B vitamins will help prevent mitochondrialdysfunction while also reversing deficiencies that could be a direct cause of neuropathy. And soon. Thus, a solid nutrient supplementation program can help provide protection in a great manyways that can help you live without neuropathy.
An Important Note on “Improvement” in Neuropathy
It is important to know that when a nutrient protocol is successful in reversing neuropathy and improving the function of nerves, most of the changes will be good, includinglessening of numbness and pain, and return of more normal feeling in the feet, legs, hands, andarms. However, do note that when the nerves again begin to work, one of the initial symptomsmight actually be pain. The reason is simply that the nerves reach an intermediate stage wherethey can again signal successfully but since they are not yet fully restored, they may initially besignalling “pain.” In all the years that I have been working with people with neuropathyproblems, I have never personally seen this, but in one nutrient trial, this was observed in ahandful of people. So just know that if you experience this, it’s a sign that the nerves are againbeginning to work, not a negative sign.
Important Nutrients for Neuropathy Resolution
Acetyl-l-carnitine has been shown by researchers to help raise nerve myoinositol content
(shown to be linked to peripheral nerve function in Florida research with diabetics), while also
protecting nerve membranes from free radical damage. As discussed above, research has also
shown that it can provide protection against the mitochondrial toxicity that is thought to be an
underlying cause of neuropathy in HIVers taking nucleoside analogue drugs. Blood levels of
acetyl-l-carnitine are decreased in neuropathy associated with those drugs. Supplementation with
carnitine has been shown to enhance neurotrophic support of sensory neurons and promote
energy metabolism, thus leading to nerve regeneration and symptom relief. A number of studies
with diabetics and several studies with HIVers have shown improvement in those treated with
Lark Lands, 1985-2005
acetyl-carnitine. In an early trial at London’s Royal Free Center for HIV Medicine, HIVerssuffering from neuropathy related to “d”drugs (d4T, ddI, ddC) were given acetyl-carnitine in adosage of 1500 mg twice daily for six months. The result was significant improvement insymptoms, including pain reduction, as well as substantial regrowth of healthy nerve tissue, asshown by nerve biopsy results. Half the patients experienced these results even though theycontinued the “d” drugs. A later, significantly larger trial confirmed these results (Hart AM,Wilson AD, Montovani C, Smith C, Johnson M, Terenghi G, Youle M. Acetyl-l-carnitine: apathogenesis based treatment for HIV-associated antiretroviral toxic neuropathy. AIDS. 2004 Jul23;18(11):1549-1560.) Alpha-lipoic acid is a fatty acid that has long been used in Europe for the treatment of
peripheral neuropathy in diabetics. A number of controlled clinical trials have shown its
usefulness for reducing both the pain and numbness suffered by those with diabetic neuropathy,
and its use for this condition is approved in Germany. Its antioxidant properties may help
protect the nerves from the inflammation and oxidative damage that HIV induces, as has been
shown to be true with diabetic neuropathy. By countering oxidative stress, it also can help
provide protection against mitochondrial toxicity which, as mentioned above, appears to be an
underlying cause of neuropathy in HIVers taking nucleoside analogue drugs.
Gamma linolenic acid is an essential fatty acid found in borage oil, grape seed oil, black currant
oil, and evening primrose oil that has been shown to be successful in reversing nerve damage in
diabetics suffering from peripheral neuropathy. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study
using 480 mg of GLA daily, all the diabetics given the fatty acid experienced gradual reversal of
nerve damage and improvement in the symptoms related to the peripheral neuropathy, while
those on placebo gradually worsened. It is thought that GLA may help to rebuild the myelin
sheath around the nerves.
B vitamins, including especially biotin, choline, inositol, and thiamine, have all been found
useful in treating the peripheral and autonomic neuropathies found in diabetes and may also help
with HIV-related neuropathies.
Biotin was long ago studied for the treatment of neuropathy in diabetics at the University
of Athens. The research showed that regular, long-term use of biotin was very effective both forimprovement in nerve conduction and relief of pain. Improvement in nerve conduction occurredafter only 4-8 weeks of therapy. In this study, biotin was given via daily intramuscular injection(10 mg/day) for 6 weeks; then 3 times per week (10 mg), intramuscularly, for 6 weeks; then 5mg/day taken orally for up to two years. The researchers hypothesized that deficiency,inactivity, or unavailability of biotin in diabetics may result in disordered activity of thebiotin-dependent enzyme, pyruvate carboxylase, leading to an accumulation of pyruvate and/or adepletion of aspartate, either of which could adversely affect nervous system metabolism. Thereare a number of reasons why HIVers may be deficient in biotin and, thus, potentially at risk for asimilar problem. It has been suggested that those with neuropathy symptoms might try 10-15mg/day (10,000 mcg to 15,000 mcg) orally, taken in conjunction with the other B vitamins found Lark Lands, 1985-2005
useful for improving nerve function. An excellent biotin supplement is CardiovascularResearch’s Megabiotin (7500 mcg per capsule); most other companies’ products contain muchlower dosages.
B-12 deficiency, common in HIVers and diabetics, is a known cause of neuropathy so
this vitamin, along with its coworker folic acid, should certainly be included in any program
aimed at eliminating this symptom. Typical symptoms of peripheral neuropathy related to B-12
deficiency include the type of leg and foot pains experienced by many. B-6 deficiencies, also
common in both HIV disease and diabetes, are known to cause both carpal tunnel syndrome
(with symptoms of numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and wrists) and degeneration of
peripheral nerves and may be responsible for some peripheral neuropathy problems.
Choline and inositol also seem to be very important parts of the combination of vitamins
needed for neuropathy resolution. As discussed above, diabetic neuropathy is known to beassociated with a reduction in myoinositol levels in nerves and tissues. The decreased level ofmyoinositol is believed to cause a decrease in the activity of the sodium-potassium pump and,thus, to change the sodium permeability of nerves. Both diets high in inositol and inositolsupplementation have been shown to improve diabetic neuropathy. Researchers at theUniversity of Alabama found a statistically significant improvement in nerve function indiabetics placed on a diet high in inositol. Included in the diet were high-inositol foods such ascantaloupe, peanuts, grapefruit, and whole grains. Other researchers have reported thatsupplementation with inositol in doses of 2-6 grams per day has resulted in improvements inneuropathy. Robert Atkins, M.D., reported successful use of 2-6 grams per day for reversingdiabetic neuropathy. Physicians at St. James Hospital in Leeds, England, have reported goodresults with even smaller dosages.
Thiamine is clearly important for countering neuropathy-causing mitochondrial toxicity
in HIVers taking nucleoside analogues. It has also been shown to be useful in treating diabetic
neuropathy. Stanley Mirski, M.D., has reported that a large percentage of his diabetic patients
who suffer from neuropathy have achieved improvements with daily thiamine supplementation
in doses of 50-100 mg. Using a fat-soluble form of thiamine is preferable because of the poor
absorption of water-soluble forms of this vitamin. However, because many HIVers and some
diabetics suffer from fat malabsorption, it may be best to take fat-soluble thiamine with both a
food containing fat and a pancreatic enzyme containing lipase, the enzyme that digests fat and
will help ensure proper uptake of the nutrient. A fat-soluble thiamine derivative called
benfotiamine, formerly available only in Europe, is now available online. Benfotiamine has
been shown to very significantly improve diabetic neuropathy in a number of trials and appears
to definitely be the best form to use. In fact, for diabetics the benfotiamine appears to potentially
provide huge additional benefits since it may block three of the four main pathways via which
high blood sugar causes the damage that leads to virtually all of the serious diabetic
complications. [For more information on this, see Lark’s fact sheet Nutrient Supplementation for
Diabetics: Eliminating Symptoms and Preventing the Complications of Diabetes.] For
information on purchasing benfotiamine, go to www.houstonbuyersclub.com. For info on trials
Lark Lands, 1985-2005
showing its benefit, go to www.benfotiamine.org.
Lecithin. Phospholipids are fats which are important in the structure of all membranes. They are
beneficial to myelin sheath production and, thus, nerve protection. A common source of
phospholipids is lecithin. Food-grade lecithin (usually derived from soybeans) is a substance
commonly used as a food additive which contains phosphatidylcholine, as well as other
phospholipids, including phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylethanolamine. [To avoid
confusion, note that to a chemist lecithin is phosphatidylcholine; we are using the term here to
refer to the food-grade lecithin granules available in health food stores as a supplement.]
For anyone concerned about preventing or treating neuropathy, Phoenix naturopathic physician Kären Van der Veer recommends 1 tablespoon of lecithin granules twice daily. It canbe blended into protein or fruit shakes (which it will make creamier), or sprinkled on cereal oroatmeal or on salads. Even simpler, its mild flavor makes it possible to simply swallow it with amouthful or two of water or juice. For those with serious neuropathy, Dr. Van der Veerrecommends using 1 tablespoon, four times daily, along with a plentiful intake of omega-3 andomega-6 fatty acids (discussed above).
Magnesium and chromium. Magnesium, shown by researchers to be deficient in a significant
percentage of HIVers and many diabetics, is also known to be necessary for nerve conduction.
Deficiency of this mineral can also cause peripheral neuropathy symptoms. Thus, including
optimal amounts of magnesium might contribute to elimination of neuropathy. Chromium
deficiency has also been reported to cause peripheral neuropathy. Diabetics are often deficient in
this mineral that is crucial for blood sugar control. Since chronic infection is known to deplete
body stores of chromium, people with chronic infections, including HIV, may also be deficient.
Natural anti-inflammatories. Since inflammation may play a role in causing neuropathy,
especially in HIV disease and other conditions in which inflammation is commonly present, the
idea of suppressing that inflammation is appealing. There are certainly a number of potent drugs
that suppress inflammation but there are several problems with long-term use of such drugs. One
problem is that over-suppressing the inflammatory response might increase the risk for infections
(since the inflammation is part of the immune system’s way of countering infections). In
addition, anti-inflammatory drugs can cause many side effects, particularly gastrointestinal
bleeding.
It would appear much less risky to use foods that have natural anti-inflammatory qualities. Because such foods have been used for thousands of years with no apparent adverseeffects on immune responses, it seems likely that long-term consumption of them would beconsiderably safer than long-term use of drugs. Their anti-inflammatory effects would be muchmore subtle, but might still provide substantial benefit. Included on the list of naturally anti-inflammatory foods and seasonings would be garlic, ginger, curcumin, bioflavonoid-rich fruits,and omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods like fatty fish, flaxseed, and walnuts.
Eating fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, cod and halibut) is a
particularly good source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Eating several meals weeklythat contain such fish would be a good idea. Ground flaxseed, which can be eaten with cereal or Lark Lands, 1985-2005
added to casseroles or soups or other foods, are also a rich source of omega-3's. Eating a handfulof walnuts several times per week will also contribute to your total intake of these importantfatty acids.
Dark-skinned berries and other bioflavonoid-containing fruits (especially
blueberries, black raspberries, blackberries, boysenberries, cherries) and quercetin-containing
foods like onions and garlic may also have anti-inflammatory benefits. NOTE: Garlic may have
interactions with some drugs and so should be used only after careful discussion with your
physician about possible interactions with the drugs you’re taking.
Turmeric is the seasoning that gives mustard and many Indian dishes their yellow
coloring. It is found in curries, chutneys, and many Indian rice dishes. Adding this seasoning tofoods is a good way to obtain its natural anti-inflammatory benefits. Curcumin, the maincompound in turmeric, can also be taken in capsule form.
Ginger is another potent natural anti-inflammatory. Chopped ginger root can be added to
many dishes where it will add its spicy flavor, along with its ability to counter inflammation. Itcan also be consumed by drinking ginger tea. Chop up two or three tablespoons of fresh gingerroot and add to a cup or so of boiling water. Then simmer this for at least five to ten minutes anddrink several times daily. You can add lemon or pasteurized honey if you’d like to flavor thistea. There is also a commercially available ginger syrup by New Chapter which can be put inhot, fizzy or cold water to make a sipping beverage.
Supplements derived from such foods may also be useful. Fish oil (2 capsules, three
times daily with meals) or flaxseed oil (2 capsules, three times daily with meals) and ginger (two500 mg capsules, two or three times daily with meals) and curcumin (500 mg capsule, three tofour times daily) may all be useful.
A broad spectrum of antioxidants is also important for countering inflammation. Early
in the process in which inflammation is created in the body, oxidative stress plays a key role.
Countering this with antioxidants is another key way to help avoid the inflammation that cancontribute to heart disease. The doses listed above under Nutrient Therapies would beappropriate.
Avoiding fats that promote inflammation is also important. Included are all partially
hydrogenated oils (and all the products made with them) and polyunsaturated vegetable oils. A Multiple Nutrient Approach
As is obvious, there are a goodly number of nutrient deficiencies which might contribute to neuropathy. It is very likely that for most people this is a multifactorial problem that can onlybe solved with a multiple-agent approach. Thus, an aggressive approach would probably need toinclude all the nutrients necessary for nerve health and protection from oxidative stress andinflammation in order to ensure their presence in adequate amounts in the body. In addition,note that higher than usual dosages of certain nutrients may be needed to improve the symptomsof neuropathy in some. Because there can be so much individual variation it is impossible to saywhich of all these nutrients might be the most important for a particular person. In my experience, the key ones appear to be acetyl-L-carnitine, benfotiamine, biotin,
Lark Lands, 1985-2005
inositol, choline, gamma linolenic acid, and alpha-lipoic acid. However, it should never be
forgotten that the B vitamins work together, that deficiencies of several B vitamins and many
other nutrients are common in both HIV disease and diabetes, that nutrients work as a package in
the body, and that one missing link could sabotage the effectiveness of other nutrients. The best
overall approach is almost certainly to add the specific nutrients that may improve neuropathy to
the overall plan for good nutrition and nutrient supplementation discussed in my other fact
sheets. Even with the underlying program in place, it may still be necessary to add a very
complete list of all of the nutrients discussed here initially. If the neuropathy improves, gradual
cutbacks or elimination of various nutrients can help to ascertain which are most crucial for
maintenance.
Remember that nutrient supplements should almost always be taken with food for properabsorption. Fat-soluble nutrients, including fatty acids, benfotiamine, and vitamins E and D,should always be taken with a fat-containing meal or snack. Because many people living witheither diabetes or HIV have absorption problems, taking pancreatic enzymes with meals andsnacks, including those in which you take nutrient supplements, is best.
Appropriate Nutrient Dosages for Neuropathy Resolution
For those wishing to try an aggressive approach to reversing neuropathy or
preventing its worsening with nutrients, the following dosages might be reasonable to try:
Acetyl-L-carnitine (500-1000 mg, three times per day); note that the higher end of this is
probably better; the success seen in reversing neuropathy caused by antiretroviral drugs occurred
with doses of 1500 mg twice daily (3000 mg total daily dose);
Alpha-lipoic acid (200-400 mg, 3 times per day);
B-6 (50-100 mg/day in the form of pyridoxal-5-phosphate, or a combination of pyridoxine
hydrochloride with pyridoxal-5-phosphate would probably be an appropriate starting dose,
although higher dosages, of perhaps 100 mg, three times per day, might be required for treatment
of some neuropathies);
B-12 (1000 mcg of B-12, 3-7 times per week; oral forms can work for some but for those with
absorption problems a nasal gel or subcutaneous or intramuscular injection may be required for
the best results);
Benfotiamine (450-600 mg daily appears to be the most effective dosage for neuropathy for
diabetics; it has not been studied for HIV-associated neuropathy and it’s not clear if it would be
useful for this; available online at www.benfotiamine.net; information and a lengthy list of
abstracts of studies showing its benefit are available at www.benfotiamine.org);
Biotin (5-20 mg/day may be necessary; note that this is usually found in “mcg” strengths in
Lark Lands, 1985-2005
which case this dose would be 5000 mcg to 20,000 mcg daily); an excellent product isCardiovascular Research’s Megabiotin (7500 mcg per capsule; this company also sells itsproducts under the brand name Ecological Formulas; take 2-3 capsules daily); Choline (400-800 mg of choline citrate or 1000-3000 mg of phosphatidylcholine, 3 times per
day);
Folic acid (1600 mcg, 3 times per day);
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) (240 mg, 2-3 times per day; least expensive source is usually
borage oil);
Inositol (500-2000 mg of myoinositol, three times per day);
Lecitihin (one tablespoon, two or three times daily);
Magnesium (500-600 mg/day with one meal per day may be useful; best to take magnesium
separately from calcium as they compete for absorption);
Niacin (25-50 mg, 3 times per day);
Thiamine in the form of benfotiamine (600 mg daily; taken as four 150 mg capsules spread
throughout the day).
The Easiest and Least Expensive Nutrient Combination
The simplest and least expensive way to obtain the above dosages is to start with an
excellent multiple vitamin/mineral formula. One I recommend is the potent multiple
vitamin/mineral called SuperBlend from SuperNutrition. [Note: if you cannot find the
SuperNutrition SuperBlend locally, it is available at a discount from the Houston Buyers Club;
see information below.] The SuperBlend contains appropriate starting levels of the B
vitamins niacin, thiamine, folic acid, and B-6, as well as the associated factors choline and
inositol, the magnesium, and the chromium.
It would be necessary to add additional amounts of the two fatty acids (alpha-lipoic
acid and gamma-linolenic acid) and the acetyl-L-carnitine since the amounts in the multiple
are too low for neuropathy resolution. Aim for a total daily dosage in the above ranges. In
addition, taking a tablespoon of lecithin two or three times daily would be very useful.
Because of the success seen with its use in multiple trials, it also seems very
important for diabetics to add the benfotiamine in the 600 mg dose listed above (four 150
mg capsules daily, spread throughout the day). Its usefulness for HIV-associated neuropathy
has not yet been studied so its possible effectiveness for this has not been shown in a clinical
Lark Lands, 1985-2005
trial. However, since (1) mitochondrial toxicity is a major factor in the causation of drug-
induced neuropathy in HIVers and (2) thiamine can help reverse this, and (3) benfotiamine is a
more advanced form of this vitamin that is better used by the body, it seems likely that this
product will be very helpful for HIV-associated neuropathy, as well.
If there are other symptoms that indicate serious B-12 deficiency (especially chronic
fatigue and memory problems), it would be a good idea to add either the nasal gel B-12 or
an injectable B-12 since although B-12 is included in the multiple, it does not always absorb
well orally. This may be particularly important for people who have been on chemotherapy that
is bone marrow suppressive, and for HIVers, especially those with more advanced disease since
the incidence of B-12 deficiency is extremely high in these people, and the ability to absorb B-12
is adversely affected by the disease. In anyone past the age of 50, it is also advisable to use either
a nasal gel or injection form since the body’s ability to produce the intrinsic factor needed to
absorb B-12 decreases with advancing age.
If the above approach is insufficient to resolve neuropathy, higher doses of the
nutrients found in the multiple could be tried, within the ranges given above.
A large number of HIVers and quite a few diabetics have reported to me their successful elimination of neuropathy with the combined use of the nutrients discussed here. Research hasmade it clear that people living with HIV are often deficient in many of these nutrients, sosupplementation may be a crucial part of any neuropathy elimination program. I have also beentold of successful resolution of neuropathy by people in whom the cause was unknown so, again,simply providing all the nutrients needed for protection and repair may be useful, regardless ofthe cause.
If you are considering supplementation with any of the B vitamins discussed above, never forget that although B vitamins are by and large non-toxic, any individual B vitaminshould always be taken along with the full B complex to prevent imbalance in the body. Long-term use of very high doses of individual B vitamins taken alone, without the rest of the Bcomplex, can induce imbalances or deficiencies in other B vitamins.
A Buyers Club for Obtaining Nutrients at the Lowest Possible Expense
All the supplements discussed in this fact sheet can be obtained through the Houston Buyers Club in Houston, Texas, a non-profit organization whose goal is to provide nutrientsupplements to people living with chronic diseases or conditions at the cheapest possible cost. They are able to use bulk purchasing to obtain supplements at low cost, and they only mark themup a small amount over their cost. This can lead to huge savings for the average purchaser since most supermarkets, pharmacies, whole foods stores, and health food stores mark up their nutrient supplements onehundred percent. That’s right. They double the cost when they sell them to you, so you’repaying twice as much as they paid. Because the HBC is a non-profit group that does not do this,the savings can be very substantial. Lark Lands, 1985-2005
Purchases can be made online on their website at www.houstonbuyersclub.com or you can contact them at 800-350-2392 or 713-520-5288 or at their storefront location at 3224Yoakum Blvd., Houston, TX 77006.
Pain Medications
It is my hope that nutrient therapies will eventually be able to reverse most neuropathy symptoms, including pain. However, even with the best nutrient protocol, resolution ofsymptoms will not occur overnight. The is not a drug effect that happens in short order. This isrebuilding the body, cell by cell. Thus, symptoms may take a period of weeks or months togradually disappear, and in some cases, they may not be fully resolved. Therefore, for thosewhose neuropathy is causing pain, adequate treatment of that pain will be very important.
Untreated pain is a very bad thing, both emotionally and physically. It can greatly degradequality of life. And if pain goes untreated too long, it can actually become permanent because thebrain’s signaling mechanism goes awry. [For more information on this, see Lark Lands’monograph on Treatments for Pain.] Unfortunately, although opiates are generally considered to be the most powerful pain medications, neuropathic pain is the kind of pain for which they are the least effective. In thepast few years, however, an alternative has come along. The anti-seizure drug gabapentine(Neurontin) has been found to act as a nerve stabilizer that can quiet the misfiring nervesresponsible for neuropathic pain. It is now generally recommended that Neurontin be the firstpain medication that is tried for neuropathic pain. Doses usually start at 100 mg daily but can beincreased to as much as 3000 mg to 3,600 mg daily, taken in from 1 to 3 doses. Neurontin hassedating effects that some find difficult.
For pain that mostly occurs at night, the standard recommendation is for oral amitriptyline (Elavil, a tricyclic antidepressant), beginning with low doses in order to minimizecertain side effects (dry mouth, sedation, urinary retention, and low blood pressure uponsuddenly sitting up or getting out of bed, termed orthostatic hypotension. A starting dose of 25mg at bedtime is gradually increased to 75 mg (or as high as 100–150 mg if needed). Elavil maybe particularly useful when sleep problems accompany the neuropathy because it has sedativeeffects.
For predominantly daytime pain, oral nortriptyline (Pamelor) is often advised since it is lesssedating, also beginning with a low dose of 10 mg per day, and gradually increasing to 30 mg, 3times daily. With these drugs, effective reduction of pain may not occur for up to two or threeweeks, so patience is required. When one of these is not effective, another may still be.
For occasional pain, standard anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) may help with mild neuropathic symptoms. The use of topical analgesic or anesthetic creams can alsosometimes be effective. In addition, topical aspirin has been reported to work to relieve pain insome people. An aspirin tablet is crushed and dissolved in a small amount of water or gel orcream, and then applied topically to a painful area.
Two other therapies have recently shown promising results for treatment of neuropathic pain. A pilot study showed that lamotrigine (Lamictal), an anticonvulsant, worked significantlybetter than placebo to decrease neuropathic pain in HIVers. However, severe rash, a known Lark Lands, 1985-2005
side-effect of lamotrigine treatment, occurred more frequently than in studies of lamotriginetreatment for epilepsy so the possibility of this should be carefully monitored. This drug isapproved for the treatment of seizures and, thus, is available for off-label use. Another recentstudy looked at the effects of NGF, a neurotrophic growth factor that stimulates regeneration ofdamaged nerve fibers, on HIV-associated peripheral neuropathy. Results showed thattwice-weekly injections of NGF reduced neuropathic pain. The drug was well tolerated, althoughsome patients complained of injection-site pain. (This drug is not yet approved, and itsdevelopment has been halted, at least for now.) If the above meds are insufficient for treating the pain, it is generally recommended that the World Health Organization (WHO) four-step approach to drug treatment of pain be used. Ingeneral, it is thought best for medications on each step of the WHO ladder to be given in themaximum tolerated doses before moving up to the next step. Where there is chronic pain, it isthought best to treat around the clock in order to prevent pain. If necessary, the usual meds canbe augmented by short-acting drugs in order to treat breakthrough pain. With all these drugs,individual responses may vary and will be the best guide for proper med use.
The choice of specific pain meds should take into consideration a number of factors.
First, discuss with your physician any possible interactions with other drugs you are takingbefore beginning any pain med. Second, consider any other medical conditions you have and theeffect that certain pain meds, most of which have side effects that could be serious, may have onthem.
G Step One: try acetaminophen or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as
aspirin, naproxen, sulindac, or ibuprofen. These are most effective for mild pain. Possibilities
include: ibuprofen (200-600 mg, 3-4 times per day); aspirin (500-1000 mg, every 4-6 hours); or
naproxen (500 mg initial dose, followed by 250-375 mg, every 6-8 hours).When one NSAID
doesn’t work, another might. Long-term use can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and should be
avoided, if possible. Those with low platelets, kidney dysfunction, or low serum albumin levels
(common in those with wasting) should not take NSAIDs. Those with gastric Kaposi's sarcoma
should either take them with an antacid or avoid them.
Note that for those with liver problems, acetaminophen (Tylenol) would be inadvisable.
For those with ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding problems, intestinal Kaposi’s sarcoma, lowplatelets, kidney dysfunction or low serum albumin levels (common in those with wasting),aspirin and other NSAIDs would be inadvisable.
In general, unless any such issues make it problematic, aspirin or buffered aspirin is probably the best choice for this first step in pain treatment. Tylenol (acetaminophen)significantly lowers the body’s level of the antioxidant glutathione. Since glutathione levels arealready too low in HIVers, worsening this is not a good idea. In addition, the lowered levels ofglutathione already present in those living with HIV may significantly increase the chance foracetominophen toxicity. Even in doses considered to be in the routine therapeutic range, it isknown that acetaminophen can cause liver injury in people with a tendency for glutathionedeficiency. Aspirin also lowers glutathione, but to a much lesser extent than acetaminophen.
If you are taking either aspirin or acetaminophen long-term, the use of the nutrients that help normalize glutathione levels is very important. Included are alpha-lipoic acid, N-acetyl- Lark Lands, 1985-2005
cysteine (NAC), glutamine, and vitamins E and C. Appropriate doses would be NAC (500 mg,three times daily; always take with food to prevent gastrointestinal irritation); glutamine (5,000to 10,000 mg daily, spread across four doses; a powdered form is best; mix in water or juice andtake on an empty stomach); vitamin E (800 to 1,200 IU daily); vitamin C (because individualneeds vary widely, recommended dosages range from 1,000 to 6,000 mg or more daily, withdoses spread across the day and taken with meals; note that amounts in excess of individualtolerance can result in gas and diarrhea; if you develop sudden watery diarrhea when you beginor increase a vitamin C dose, know that this may be the cause.); selenium (200 to 400 mcgdaily); SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine; 800 to 1,600 mg daily); and alpha-lipoic acid (200 to400 mg, taken three times daily, preferably on an empty stomach; note that a time-released formis very important because alpha-lipoic acid has a very short half-life in the bloodstream; by usingproducts that release the alpha-lipoic acid gradually over time, you increase the total time thatthe nutrient will be available and working in the body.) For much more information on thesenutrients and their usefulness in restoring glutathione in HIVers, see Mitochondrial Support andProtection Against Oxidative Stress.
Always remember that long-term use of aspirin or other NSAIDs can cause damage to the intestines and gastrointestinal bleeding. In general, it is always best to only use such medswhen you absolutely need them to reduce pain, and avoid long-term use, if possible.
G Step Two: if NSAIDs are not enough, try using a weak opiate derivative either alone or along
with a Step One agent. Possibilities include codeine alone (30-60 mg); codeine (30 mg) with
acetaminophen (325 mg); hydrocodone (5 mg) with acetaminophen (325 mg); or oxycodone (5
mg) with acetaminophen (325 mg). Any of these combos would be repeated every 4 to 6 hours.
G Step Three: if the above are inadequate, switch to a stronger opiate such as hydromorphone,
transdermal fentanyl patches, levorphanol, morphine sulfate (intravenous), sustained-release
morphine sulfate (oral), or meperidine. The minimum daily dose that affords pain relief should
be used.
G Step Four: at any point during the preceding steps, add adjuvant therapies to boost the
effectiveness of the other drugs. At the top of this list, due to good effectiveness with few side
effects, is gabapentine (Neurontin), starting at 100 mg daily and going as high as 3000 mg daily,
taken in 1 to 3 doses. As is discussed above, Neurontin may also sometimes be effective when
used as a sole agent. Other boosters include antihistamines like hydroxyzine (Vistaril);
butyrophenones like haloperidol (Haldol) and pimozide (Orap); psychostimulants like
methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine), and pemoline (Cylert); amine
precursors like tryptophan; selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors such as fluoxetine (Prozac),
paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft); and heterocyclic and non-cyclic antidepressants like
trazadone (Desyrel) and maprotiline (Ludiomil).
Lark Lands, 1985-2005
Reducing Symptoms with Physical Approaches
There are a number of physical approaches that may provide benefit. First, reducing symptoms by countering overexertion, reducing pressure, and soothing affected areas can bevery helpful. Several physical practices may help relieve pressure on hypersensitive feet orhands and, thus, reduce pain. This includes limiting walking distances, avoiding standing forlengthy periods, wearing loose-fitting shoes and socks, avoiding repetitive pressure on the hands,and soaking the feet or hands in ice water on a regular basis. Regular exercise also seems to help in some cases, possibly by increasing circulation to the nerves. Support stockings also seem to help some people, although in others they mayactually cause pressure that worsens pain. Some people experience increased pain in certain areas when sleeping. For example, neuropathy in the heels that only causes a slight feeling of numbness during the day may causeserious pain when the mattress presses into the heels during sleep. A simple measure that canhelp is to raise such an affected area (the heels or the hands, etc.) off the mattress by using asmall pillow. Place a small tubular pillow (sold by many chiropractors; a piece of foam rubberwith a pillowcase wrapped around it would also work) under the legs (or the arms) just above theheels (or the wrists) so that the affected areas are slightly elevated. This can remove the pressurethat's causing the pain and allow for uninterrupted sleep. Keeping heavy covers off of painfulareas can also help. If the heels or toes are the problem areas, arrange the covers so that only asheet or light covering is over the feet. Pull any heavier covers farther up so that they stop justabove the feet. An egg crate-type foam mattress will relieve pressure spots from head to heel andmay make sleeping much more restful.
Acupuncture or Acupressure
Acupuncture has been reported to be very effective for the relief of neuropathic pain, with improvement often occurring with the first treatment. Repeated treatments may, however,be necessary for long-term relief. Note that one study of acupuncture found no benefits from itsuse; however, acupuncturists believe that the study was invalid because according to thestandards of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture should always be individualized foreach person; in the study, the identical points were used for everyone. There are many anecdotalreports from the community that support the belief that acupuncture is often helpful withneuropathy.
Where acupuncture is not available, acupressure—in which energy points are pressed or massaged—may be another possibility for treating neuropathy. There are many books availablethat can teach you simple ways to practice this technique. And if you’re interested, mostcommunities will have classes on this and other energy therapies through local adult educationprograms.
Sympathetic Electrical Current Therapy
Recent research has shown that the application of an electrical current designed to affect Lark Lands, 1985-2005
the nervous system systemically may significantly reduce pain and improve sleep in peoplediagnosed with chronic peripheral neuropathy. In a study recently published in the AmericanJournal of Pain Management, Texas neurologist Ernesto H. Guido, M.D., reported effectivetreatment of neuropathy sufferers (not limited to HIVers or diabetics but rather anyone withchronic neuropathy) with the Dynatron STS, a device approved by the FDA. This device deliverslow frequency, high intensity electrical current in a way that is designed to gain access to theautonomic nervous system via peripheral nerves. The treatment was administered daily for 28days to 20 people with a primary diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy. Pain duration for thesepeople ranged from one to 25 years.
Most people reported decreases in pain after only a few days of being treated. By the end of the study period, significant pain relief was reported by 19 of the 20 people, and half of thesufferers reported complete relief. The one individual who did not report pain relief, didexperience improved sleep and a 30 percent reduction in the use of pain medication. Theresearchers note that the pain reduction outcomes of this study may indicate that this therapycould be an effective means of providing symptomatic relief of chronic intractable pain, even inthose who have suffered symptomatically for many years, or have been unresponsive to othertherapies. More information is available at the manufacturer’s website (Dynatronics Corporation,Salt Lake City, Utah; www.chronicpainrx.com) Magnet Therapy
The use of magnets for medical problems has been controversial, with a number of companies selling them and making claims about their usefulness, but not many good medicalstudies showing proof. However, one recent study conducted by neurologist Michael Weintraub,M.D., of the New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York, showed some success withmagnets used for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 375 patients. Half the patients were given footpads with magnets, whilehalf had sham footpads that were identical in appearance but without the magnets. The patientsadmitted to the study had specific abnormalities on physical examination, and complained ofmoderate to severe pain. The footpads were worn 24 hours per day for four months. The resultsshowed that there were significant differences in one or more symptoms in those using the realmagnets compared to those with the placebo footpads. The improvements were not dramatic butby the third and fourth months, magnet-using patients did report at least some reduction ofexercise-induced foot pain (12 percent reduction), numbness and tingling in the feet (10 percentreduction) or burning pain in the feet (12 percent reduction). In a subset of patients whose pain atbaseline was described as severe, the changes were even greater, with a 32 percent improvementin numbness and tingling and a 41 percent improvement in foot pain by the fourth month. Wheninterviewed by ABC news, Dr. Weintraub said, “I was one of those people who was extremelyskeptical until we decided to do these studies scientifically and look at the facts. There is somebiological activity here." The magnets used in the study are sold under the brand name ofMagsteps by Nikken, Inc. This idea of using magnets to help with neuropathy is something Ihave only recently discovered so I don’t have any reports as yet from people who have gainedbenefits from them. However, the results of this study are sufficiently promising for me to Lark Lands, 1985-2005
believe that this might be worth trying, especially when other approaches don’t provide fullrelief. As with all other things discussed here, my belief is that the best results are likely to beseen when something like this is combined with the type of nutrient therapy discussed above.
[Weintraub MI, Wolfe GI, Barohn RA, Cole SP, Parry GJ, et al. Static magnetic field therapy forsymptomatic diabetic neuropathy: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. ArchPhys Med Rehabil. 2003 May;84(5):736-46.] Key Therapies for Autonomic Neuropathy
Antiretroviral medications, nutrient therapies, and natural anti-inflammatories may all help reverse or prevent autonomic neuropathy, the damage to autonomic nerves that occurs inmany people living with diabetes or HIV. Overall, it will be important to consider many of thesame remedies discussed above for peripheral neuropathy. Consideration should be given to theuse of antiretroviral medications to counter HIV-caused nerve damage, nutrients that may helpprotect or rebuild nerves, and natural anti-inflammatories to counter the inflammation that maycontribute to autonomic nerve problems (all of which are discussed above). Although we know much less about the use of any of these for the protection of autonomic nerves, there are anecdotal reports that these therapies may work to improveautonomic neuropathy. Suppressing HIV with antiretrovirals may be very important forprotecting the autonomic nerves.
The most important nutrient therapy for autonomic neuropathy may be acetyl-
carnitine (1,000 mg, three times daily on an empty stomach) combined with alpha-lipoic acid(400 mg, three times daily; absolutely do use an extended release form such as MRI’s ExtendedRelease Alpha-Lipoic Acid). There have been anecdotal reports that using these in combinationhas resulted in improved stomach functioning, and a reduction in the symptoms that damage tostomach nerves can cause (bloating, sometimes to the extent of distention, after meals,discomfort, and gas). Adding to these nutrients the others discussed above would always be best.
To counter stomach dysfunction and the nausea and stomach discomfort which it
can cause, there may be a long-term need for use of metoclopramide (Reglan). Reglan speeds
the emptying of the stomach and small intestine, thus relieving the digestive symptoms of
bloating and uncomfortable fullness in the stomach. By ensuring that food moves on through the
digestive tract as it is supposed to do, the use of Reglan will often not only improve digestion
significantly but also eliminate the nausea and abdominal cramping that the food sitting
undigested for long periods of time can cause. Reglan is available in oral form as a tablet or
syrup, and in injectable form for intramuscular or intravenous use. The dosage range is from 5 to
20 mg, with the most common dosage for digestive problems being 10 mg, given approximately
30 minutes before meals and sometimes also at bedtime. Reglan has a sedating effect in some
people so watch for this (and avoid driving if it occurs).
One note on this is important. With constant daily use of Reglan, its effectiveness will often diminish. Thus, it will always be best to only use the drug when truly necessary. Manypeople will find that if they eat smaller meals, and always avoid over-filling the stomach, they Lark Lands, 1985-2005
may not need to take Reglan all of the time. Then on occasions when a bigger meal will be eaten(it’s Thanksgiving or you’re at your favorite restaurant and want to indulge), the Reglan can beused effectively. By using it only when definitely needed, people report that its usefulness ismaintained. However, chronic daily use with every meal has resulted in losing the drug’seffectiveness, a serious problem for those times when the stomach really locks up and the foodjust keeps sitting there.
Countering orthostatic hypotension is also very important. For those with orthostatic
hypotension (low blood pressure) that is caused by autonomic neuropathy, the use of elasticantiphlebitic (compression) stockings can help. These are thigh-high stockings that applypressure to the legs in a way that helps to prevent pooling of the blood in the lower legs, thushelping to ensure normal blood flow to the head. Countering urinary incontinence is also important for some. If urinary incontinence
is present, it is very important to see a urologist who can determine the cause(s) since autonomicneuropathy is only one of several potentially serious causes of this problem. There are drugssuch as Hytrin or Ditropan which can help with some types of urinary incontinence.
Lark Lands, 1985-2005

Source: http://www.larrylands.com/lark/TR12_Neuropathy-Nutrients.PDF