some questions re: supplements
 

Hi. I have small fiber neuropathy which the neurologist is still classifying as idiopathic. I have been taking the following supplements:

-r-lipoic acid - 100 mg a day (for close to 2 months)

-benfotiamine - 300 mg a day (for close to 2 months)

-methylcobalamin - 5000 mcg a day (for a month and a half)

-biotin - 1000 mcg a day (for a month)

-multi-vitamin (for several years)

My questions are as follows:

Do these supplements sometimes take a few months to work, if they are going to work?

Are there any other supplements you would recommend adding for someone such as myself with idiopathic small fiber neuropathy?

I guess what I'm trying to decide is how much longer to try the ones that I have been taking and also whether or not there are some that might benefit me to try that I am not currently taking.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Do you take fish oil? Do you know the B12 and vit D level? Did you have an A1C test? Do you eat sugar and processed carbs?

Any toxins like smoking, meds, etc? There are so many things to look at for nerve health.

Acetyl carnitine also... helps some mostly with the toxic induced neuropathies. Start at 500mg a day.

I don't see magnesium on your list. Magnesium is very important, for PNers.

Vit D is also important and normalizing it can reduce pain.
Vit D normalizes the immune system, as well.

http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/thread1138.html

It does take time to heal. You should see some improvements if they are coming by 3 months, and longer for a significant recovery.
If your PN trigger is still in your life however, supplements will be hindered in what they can do.

What about CoQ10
 

In addition to possibly fish oil, acetyl carnitine, and magnesium, would adding CoQ 10 be something that might help with small fiber neuropathy or do you think it would be not worth adding?

Yes, CoQ10 is excellent. Get a good brand. It is good for mitochondria, nerves heart and muscle. Needed for ATP/energy production, great antioxident.

Thanks. What are some good brands, and are there any safety concerns relating to this supplement?

The new solubilized forms... Qunol and
this one:
http://www.epic4health.com/qgel-coq10.html

These allow for lower dosing because they are solubilized.

100mg a day tops.

ADD the magnesium first...see if that helps. Then add in the CoQ-10.

Thank you.