Expert: Eric Brandt - 9/3/2008

Question
I have been diagnosed with Neuropathy in my right hand due to a broken wrist from a fall 4 years ago.  After seeing many doctors and trying different medicines, therapies, acupuncture and other treatments,I have found very little relief from the burning pain and severe tightness.  I am now being treated by a pain management doctor.  I have been on 600mg daily of Lyrica for about 2 1/2 yrs. Last week we have added 60 mg of Cymbalta at a low dose and increasing over the next 4 weeks to 90 mg.  I have heard some people have found very good results with this combination.  My question is:  What is your feeling on this combination of Lyrica & Cymbalta?  I have suffered severe pain with this condition.  Do you have any other suggestions for pain relief?

Pat

Answer
Hi Pat,
This is a reasonable combination that can help this type of pain. Have ou tried any topical preparations for this? Ask you doctor if you could try topical diclofenac or ibuproen that can be made by a compounding pharmacy. I also know of a topical ketaine formulation made by a compounding pharmacy that can help.
Thank you for using Allexperts
Sincerely,
Eric Brandt, B.Sc. Pharm