Hi all, my 13 year old son, who was diagnosed with CRPS in December (after fractures and surgery last September) has not been able to tolerate the side effects of any pain medication so far. We've tried Gabapentin (he became suicidal), Tramadol (he became increasingly anxious and couldn't sleep), ibuprofen or Naproxen, (stomach ache after a few months) and Amitriptyline (couldn't function due to grogginess). I've read some encouraging things about low dose Naltrexone for CRPS and it sounds like it's well tolerated as far as side effects go. I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with this and can tell me if this is a safe and effective drug for teens with CRPS. His pain management doctor doesn't seem to be familiar with it.

Yeah, I've been doing some research on the medication too..when I go back to the neurologist, I'm going to ask.... Naltrexone affects the liver, also, long time use of ibuprofin effects the liver as well....

Hello Swimtime,

Low dose naltrexone is mentioned on Dr. Pradeep Chopras video on Rsds.org. He apparently uses it quite a bit. Has nice before and after images with use of that treatment. I think it may have been a relatively young patient also. Sorry to hear about the trouble with meds. It can be frustrating working that out. I too had my mood impacted by neurontin. Amitriptyline however is the first generation of TCA and is known for side effects. Other drugs in that class have less. My neuro prefers nortryptiline, I take 20 mg only at bedtime and tolerate that amount well. 25mg made me dizzy, so even such a small change in dose can make the difference. Desipramine also has fewer side effects so maybe one of those is worth trying. Takes 4-6 weeks they say for maximum relief but mine started earlier. Hang in there! Tell your son we are rooting for him.
BTW - I am pretty small and was worried about the nortryptiline side effects but was assured it is given to 12 year olds routinely for migraine and they usually do fine. I think the key with some of this can be the bedtime only routine for the sensitive...also titrating up can be helpful. I started and 10mg and went from there.

Littlepaw