Good afternoon Michelle. Thanks for your reply and the additional information about your husband's efforts to live with and regulate the medication he has tried for idiopathic peripheral neuropathy. First, a question. Has your husband received a diagnosis? Did any of the neurologists request a skin biopsy? There is a difference between Small Fiber Peripheral Neuropathy (SFPN) and idiopathic Peripheral Neuropathy (PN).

The only medication that I noticed might be more helpful than we think is Gabapentin. Three weeks ago I had a Total Knee Replacement. At first, the medications were for the surgery and recovery...delaying my normal daily efforts to mitigate my SFPN. The first thing that happened was a return of intense "tingle tangles" and pain in my hands, wrists, and lower arms. Obviously, those parts of my body missed the daily dose of 600 mg of Gabapentin that I was taking every evening. I have tapered off from 1200 mg but I sure won't go any further.

You are correct, Dioxepene appears to have similar effects to Cymbalta. I replaced Nortriptlene with Duloxetine (Cymbalta). I briefly used Doxipene for a neuropathic itch problem but feel the Cymbalta is better for anxiety and depression which in turn can create more pain.

One more question......what is the purpose of the 3-5 miles a day that is worth such extreme pain? Sometimes we have to let go of activities that are no longer of value. I, too like to walk and most days can do 1-2 miles. The 5 mile days are a part of my past which I have replaced with a wonderful Yoga program that we do every morning to stretch muscles and build stamina.

I am glad that you are finding Connect helpful. We are always here for you.
Chris