Should I stop my medicines that are causing the neuropathy?

Generally speaking, the best way to manage peripheral neuropathy is to stop (or switch) any medications that may be causing the problem. For example, if you are taking an anti-HIV drug regimen that contains Zerit, the first approach should be to switch the Zerit for another NRTI that is less likely to cause peripheral neuropathy (options might include Retrovir [zidovudine], Viread [tenofovir], or Ziagen [abacavir]). Of course, you should discuss this option with your healthcare provider—do not attempt to stop any of your medications or to switch them without first checking in with your doctor.

It can sometimes take a few weeks or months for symptoms of peripheral neuropathy to improve after stopping an offending drug. In some cases, symptoms can worsen before they get better.

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