Protocol · Neurological/Pain Management
Neuropathic Pain Support Protocol
Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Acetyl-L-Carnitine are the core of this stack, with 3 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Neuropathic Pain Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
5 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Alpha-Lipoic Acid | Amount listed: 600–1,200 mg daily | Antioxidant; evidence for diabetic neuropathy pain | Not graded yet | |
| Acetyl-L-Carnitine | Amount listed: 1,500–3,000 mg daily | Supports nerve regeneration; reduces neuropathic pain | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Vitamin B12 | Amount listed: 1,000–2,000 mcg daily (methylcobalamin preferred) | Essential for nerve health; deficiency causes neuropathy | Not graded yet | |
| Benfotiamine (Vitamin B1) | Amount listed: 300–600 mg daily | Fat-soluble B1; blocks pathways causing nerve damage in diabetes | Not graded yet | |
| Capsaicin (Topical) | Amount listed: 0.025–0.075% cream 3–4 times daily to affected area | Depletes substance P; reduces localized neuropathic pain | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Neuropathic pain is caused by damage or disease affecting the nervous system. It's often described as burning, shooting, stabbing, or electric shock-like pain, and can be difficult to treat.
COMMON CAUSES:
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Postherpetic neuralgia (after shingles)
- Nerve injury or trauma
- Chemotherapy-induced
- Multiple sclerosis
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injury
SYMPTOMS:
- Burning or shooting pain
- Tingling or numbness
- Electric shock sensations
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Pain from normally painless stimuli
CRITICAL: Neuropathic pain requires comprehensive medical evaluation and treatment. This protocol is SUPPORTIVE ONLY.
MEDICAL TREATMENTS:
- First-line: Gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine, TCAs
- Second-line: Tramadol, topical lidocaine, capsaicin
- Interventional: Nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation
- Physical therapy: Important for function
LIFESTYLE MEASURES:
- Good blood sugar control (if diabetic)
- Regular exercise (improves nerve health)
- Avoid alcohol
- Quit smoking
- Stress management
Alpha-lipoic acid* has evidence for diabetic neuropathy.
B vitamins* support nerve health and repair.
Topical capsaicin* can help localized pain.
Expected timeline: Supplements may take 4-8 weeks to show benefit. Neuropathic pain is often chronic and requires multimodal management.