Off label Ambien for neuropathic pain?

CMT #2 · 08-20-2012, 03:10 AM

Hi,

I'm new here and have a question for everyone.

I have peripheral neuropathy CMT type 2 that was asymtomatic until I had 5 spine surgeries for herniated discs that relieved severe pain but my nerves never healed properly after surgery due to the neuropathy and now I have constant burning pain in both legs and feet level 2-5.

If I take an opioid it helps with the pain about 50% and have taken all the usual meds (neurontin, lyrica, cymabalta, etc with no results) but I've discovered that if I take 5-10mg of Ambien it stops the burning pain almost 100%.

Has anybody else here taken Ambien and had it relieve neuropathy pain?

My brother is a Neurologist and he has never heard of Ambien relieving pain, neither has my personal Neurologist or any pain doc I've talked to.

Any neuropathy patients or docs out there who have any input on why Abien kills my neuropathy pain when other drugs dont?

Kitt · 08-20-2012, 08:44 AM

I haven't a clue. Perhaps others might.

ginnie · 08-20-2012, 08:57 AM

Welcome to Neuro Talk. I hope others will be able to help you with your question. Medicines work differently for every single person. If this works for you to reduce your pain. I would tell the doc. that very thing, and take the medication. If I were getting 100% relief, I would take a sugar pill! Pain in hard to deal with in all respects. I also seek those things which helps my own pain. take care, and glad to have you at Neruo Talk. ginnie

Kitt · 08-20-2012, 09:31 AM

Ambien helps you sleep and relax. Perhaps that is why it helps you with the pain. IDK

alt1268 · 08-20-2012, 09:55 AM

Welcome to the forum. Please feel free to look around and join in there is also a topic on PN that may be able to help you answer questions. Neurotalk is a great place to meet others with similiar problems who have been where you are or are going through what you are.

Here is the link:

http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/fo...aysprune=&f=20

I have to agree you are probably getting relief because of the relaxation mechanism in the ambien.

Darlene · 08-20-2012, 11:53 PM

CMT,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Please keep us up to date on her condition. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene