Sunday, February 21, 2010

Update on IVIG Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy

My last update, 10/25/09, was just after I had received my second infusion of IVIG. I received a third dose 4 weeks later in November. I received 30 g of IVIG each day times 2 for a total dose of 60g. I then met with my Neurologist, Dr. Edgar to evaluate this 3 month treatment period.

It was clear that the IVIG helped my peripheral neuropathy with about 50% improvement in the numbness and tingling and, perhaps, 10-20% improvement in balance and gait. Improvement was noted about 9 days after the infusion. Unfortunately, my symptoms regressed after the third week from infusion. I was told that the effect would last 3 – 4 weeks so this was no surprise.

We then decided to try 30 g x 1 day (half the dose I previously received) but every 3weeks instead of every 4 weeks. Unfortunately, this half dose had no noticeable effect whatever. So, we are now looking at receiving 60 g in a single dose every 3 weeks. I received this treatment on 2/19 with no ill effects and we will go for 3 months and again re-evaluate the situation.

4 comments:

Dick Blide, M.D. said...

I received my second dose of 60 g of IVIG on 3/12/10, three weeks after the last dose and I'm doing very well with no excerbation of symptoms.

Dick Blide, M.D. said...

I receive 60g of IVIG every 3 weeks now, given in one dose with no side effects, the last dose being on 4/2/10. This regimen appears to have stabilized my symptoms. I note no change during the 3 week period between infusions; 2+ numbnes and tingling in the left hand and +- on the right. My balance and gait are stable.

tahera said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
tahera said...

Its good to see that there are new treatment of neuropathy coming up due to constant research. Good job.