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Real members of MyLupusTeam 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.

My severe Neuropathy keeps me up all night. I take 3700mg of gabapentin and 60mg Cymbalta. May calm a few times but not always .

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Houston, TX

They are not adjusting mt medicine I need this for relief somewhat because I can’t take narcotics, steroids and NSAIDs. So changing medication is a no. I’m actually just talking out loud.

December 23, 2025
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Reactions
A MyLupusTeam Member

I don't have an answer for your neuropathy, but my sister has lupus and she has to take lorazepam every night or she can't sleep. She takes the smallest amount and I can't remember if it's a 1 mg tablet or a 5 mg tablet, but if she doesn't take it she's awake all night. She also takes gabapentin for her seizures, and they apparently go together OK. Just an idea. I'm sorry for your pain. 💕

December 23, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Carla2 do you have burning/throbbing pain in your thighs? If so, does Nerve Renew help?

December 23, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

I take the supplement Nerve Renew to help my neuropathy. Works very well. There are many different nerve supplements to choose. Easy to find. Something to think about.

December 23, 2025
MyLupusTeam

How can you manage severe neuropathy that disrupts sleep despite taking gabapentin and Cymbalta?

It sounds like you're dealing with persistent nerve pain even with your current medications. Both gabapentin and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are commonly used to treat neuropathy in people with lupus, but they don't always provide Show Full Answer

How can you manage severe neuropathy that disrupts sleep despite taking gabapentin and Cymbalta?

It sounds like you're dealing with persistent nerve pain even with your current medications. Both gabapentin and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are commonly used to treat neuropathy in people with lupus, but they don't always provide complete relief.

Here are some things to consider:

Medication-Related Factors:
- Gabapentin may need dose adjustments or timing changes. Some members find taking it right before bed helps with both pain and sleep
- Cymbalta can sometimes cause fatigue or affect sleep patterns, which might complicate nighttime symptoms
- These medications can interact with each other and may cause drowsiness, mood changes, or other side effects that affect sleep quality

Important Safety Note:
Your gabapentin dose is quite high. Gabapentin can cause serious breathing problems, especially when combined with other medications that affect the central nervous system. This risk increases with age and certain health conditions.

Next Steps:
Talk to your healthcare provider about your current regimen. They may suggest:
- Adjusting medication timing or dosages
- Adding topical treatments like lidocaine patches or capsaicin cream
- Exploring other pain management options
- Evaluating whether medication interactions might be contributing to your symptoms

Many MyLupusTeam members report that finding the right combination takes time and close communication with their doctors.

December 23, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Priase God! You are stable! Go God!!! Hugs

January 8

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