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Definition Return to top
Neuropathy secondary to drugs is a condition where there is a loss of sensation (or movement) in a part of the body. It is associated with use of a medication that can damage nerves.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The damage is caused by toxic effects of certain medications on the peripheral nerves (the nerves not in the brain or spinal cord). There is usually evidence of damage to the axon part of the nerve cell, which blocks conduction of the nerve impulse through the cell.
Most commonly, there is involvement of multiple nerves (polyneuropathy) which usually appears as sensation changes that begin in outward areas of the body (distal) and progress toward the center of the body (proximal). Occasionally, there may also be changes in movement.
Many medications can be associated with the development of neuropathy, including:
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
A neurological examination may show abnormalities. Blood levels of the medication may show toxic levels. Normal blood levels of certain drugs may be toxic in elderly or other highly susceptible persons.Treatment Return to top
Treatment is based on the symptoms and their severity.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
In many cases, a partial or full return to normal function is possible. The disorder is not usually associated with life-threatening complications, but it can be uncomfortable or disabling.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if you are taking any medication and you experience a loss of sensation or movement of any area of the body.Prevention Return to top
The health care provider will closely supervise treatment with any medication that may cause neuropathy. The goal is to maintain a therapeutic level (the amount of medication needed to control diseases/symptoms) while preventing toxic levels of the medication. Update Date: 5/8/2003 Updated by: Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |