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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Have you taken Amitriptyline (Elavil)? Do you recommend it?

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Ystalyfera, UK

I still suffer from "Peripheral Neuropathy" (pins and needles) at night-time, due to overactivity of my CNS (Central Nervous System), related to my HIV.

About 8 months ago, on advice from my HIV clinic, I began taking one Vitamin B12 tablet daily to hopefully repair my nerve pathways, to hopefully stop the "Peripheral Neuropathy", but the daily B12 hasn't remedied the problem. I still sleep badly and still suffer from the itching.

So my HIV doctor has now suggested I consider taking… read more

November 22, 2023
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members shared their varied experiences with amitriptyline for HIV-related peripheral neuropathy, with several noting that it worked well for... Read more

Members shared their varied experiences with amitriptyline for HIV-related peripheral neuropathy, with several noting that it worked well for establishing healthy sleep patterns when taken at bedtime, though the dosages for neuropathy are typically lower than those used for depression. Many members emphasized that neuropathy caused by HIV medications can be difficult to treat and may require a combination of approaches, including B12 shots, gabapentin, iron infusions, and IVIG treatments, with outcomes varying widely from person to person. A recurring theme was the exhausting trial-and-error nature of finding relief, the importance of working closely with knowledgeable doctors who acknowledge HIV-related nerve damage, and leaning on faith and community support when living with chronic, life-altering symptoms.

A myHIVteam Member

@A myHIVteam Member, to me your situation sounds intolerable. I don't think I could cope with it. Your situation and that of some other people I know of proves the untruth of all those articles which I see in general news stating that ARVs mean that people with HIV can now live a normal life. Your situation isn't anywhere near normal. I wonder how you bear it, day after day. 🌻

November 26, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

Lamivudine most likely causing your problems Amitriptyline didn't work
HIV toxic poly neuropathy most doctors don't want to admit it took me 7 years tons of test and a few good doctors gave me lots of treatments and admitted it depending on how long you've had you mite not be able to repair it b12 shot every month all the iron test there's 8 of them hard fight good luck my friend

November 22, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

@A myHIVteam Member, thank you for that important warning.

November 22, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

I hope you find a solution, friend...

November 22, 2023
A myHIVteam Member

Faith in God all I have left

November 26, 2023

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