Peripheral Neuropathy, What Dosages of Omega-3 for Pain?

I have been suffering from neuropathy in my lower limbs for four years, worsened by bilateral plantar fasciitis, a condition caused by chemotherapy treatment I underwent four years ago to remove a mediastinal seminoma, further aggravated by venous insufficiency and muscle contractures throughout my body, having also undergone median sternotomy surgery. I would like to use Tiobec 600, which I have used in the past with very slight improvement, and I want to add vitamin E and your capsules. Could you please tell me if they might be helpful and at what dosages? Massimo

Dear Massimo,

Unfortunately, peripheral neuropathy is a common side effect of many neurotoxic chemotherapy treatments and can be severely disabling due to neuropathic pain. In this condition, dietary supplementation with alpha-lipoic acid is generally recommended due to its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. However, for managing neuropathy, combining alpha-lipoic acid with omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA may be even more beneficial for the following reasons:

• Omega-3 fatty acids, because of their anti-inflammatory activity, reduce the production of pro-inflammatory molecules (cytokines) involved in peripheral neuropathy.
• This anti-inflammatory effect is mainly attributed to DHA: over time, it may help reduce the need for anti-inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDs used for pain symptoms.
• The combination of DHA with alpha-lipoic acid increases the absorption and effectiveness of alpha-lipoic acid compared to taking it alone.

For peripheral neuropathy, VitaDHA 1000 is recommended.

Based on the above, you can continue Tiobec 600 and add VitaDHA 1000 at a dosage of 2-3 capsules daily, to be taken with a main meal. VitaDHA is a dietary supplement based on concentrated and purified fish oil—with a ratio favoring DHA over EPA—each VitaDHA 1000 capsule provides 470 mg of DHA and 100 mg of EPA.

Therefore, VitaDHA is recommended as supportive therapy in cases of peripheral neuropathy. If swallowing capsules is difficult, you may opt for VitaDHA liquid, available in single-dose vials containing 6 g of lemon-flavored fish oil. I recommend informing your doctor if you decide to start omega-3 supplementation alongside your current medications.

I remain available for any further needs.

Best regards,

Dr. Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist