Abstract
Background
Peripheral neuropathy is a painful condition deriving from many and varied etiologies. Certain medications have been implicated in the iatrogenic development of Drug Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (DIPN) and include chemotherapeutic agents, antimicrobials, cardiovascular drugs, psychotropic, anticonvulsants, among others. This review synthesizes current clinical concepts regarding the mechanism, common inciting medications, and treatment options for drug-induced peripheral neuropathy.
Methods
The authors undertook a structured search of bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed research literature using a focused review question and inclusion/exclusion criteria. The most relevant and up to date research was included.
Results
Drug-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common and painful condition caused by many different and frequently prescribed medications. Most often, DIPN is seen in chemotherapeutic agents, antimicrobials, cardiovascular drugs, psychotropic, and anticonvulsant drugs. Certain drugs exhibit more consistent neuropathic side effects, such as the chemotherapeutic compounds, but others are more commonly prescribed by a larger proportion of providers, such as the statins. DIPN is more likely to occur in patients with concomitant risk factors such as preexisting neuropathy, diabetes, and associated genetically predisposing diseases. DIPN is often difficult to treat, however medications including duloxetine, and gabapentin are shown to reduce neuropathic pain. Advanced techniques of neuromodulation offer promise though further randomized and controlled studies are needed to confirm efficacy.
Conclusion
Awareness of the drugs covered in this review and their potential for adverse neuropathic effect is important for providers caring for patients who report new onset symptoms of pain, paresthesia, or weakness. Prevention of DIPN is especially important because treatment often proves challenging. While many pharmacologic therapies have demonstrated analgesic potential in the pain caused by DIPN, many patients remain refractive to treatment. More studies are needed to elucidate the effectiveness of interventional, neuromodulating therapies.
Keywords: Drug induced peripheral neuropathy, chemotherapy, statins, gabapentinoids, pain, paresthesia, weakness
1. Introduction
Drug-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (DIPN) occurs when a chemical substance causes damage to the peripheral nervous system [1]. DIPN is potentially irreversible, resulting in sensory deficits and paresthesia typically in a glove and stocking type distribution; motor involvement is rare. The onset of signs and symptoms usually takes weeks to months, as dose-dependent onset requires neurotoxins to build up and reach peak concentrations in the bloodstream. The neurotoxins can affect and modify both peripheral neurons and glial cells through a variety of mechanisms [2]. With rising neurotoxin levels, axonal distal degeneration occurs not dissimilar to a demyelinating process. DIPN accounts for only 4% of all neuropathies, yet 60% of patients undergoing chemotherapy will develop DIPN [2, 3].
2. Pathophysiology
Most drug-induced peripheral neuropathies cause damage at the dorsal root ganglia. Six mechanisms of peripheral nerve injury have been described in relation to peripheral neuropathy including metabolic dysregulation, covalent modification, organelle damage, intracellular inflammatory signaling, axonal transport defects, and channelopathies [4] Metabolic dysregulation is specifically related to diabetic peripheral neuropathy and will not be discussed further in this paper.
A covalent modification is thought to induce pathology through DNA modification, particularly in drugs containing platinum. A study involving cisplatin, a platinum-containing medication, demonstrated that cisplatin binds dorsal root ganglia sensory neuronal DNA 10 fold greater than a neuron-like dividing cell line. Platinum accumulates in peripheral neurons, covalently binds to DNA and interferes with replication, eventually resulting in apoptosis and sensory neuropathy [5].
Organelle damage is associated mainly with mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum damage. Chemotherapy drugs in the taxane family target microtubule depolarization and in turn affect mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum function. As microtubules depolarize, calcium channels on endoplasmic reticulum open, which causes mitochondrial permeability transition pores to open. This releases reactive oxygen species and cytochrome C, ultimately initiating apoptotic pathways [6].
Intracellular inflammation can be seen in both chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and HIV-induced peripheral neuropathy. The inflammation from chemotherapy drugs is linked to organelle damage and apoptotic death of the neuronal cell, leading to an overall inflammatory state in the nerve. HIV’s interactions with gp120 induce inflammation and activation of the complement cascade, damaging dorsal root ganglia and leading to neuronal cell death [7].
Axonal transport defects occur via interactions of microtubule depolarization with organelle damage induced by drugs such as paclitaxel, cisplatin, and borezomib [8]. Borezomib prolongs proteasome inhibition in addition to increaseing alpha-tubulin polymerization, which results in the death of rapidly dividing cells [8].
As previously discussed, channelopathies may result from microtubule polymerization interference and subsequent calcium channel dysregulation. Sodium channels are also subject to interference by several drugs. Oxaliplatin, for instance, increases sodium currents and prolongs the cell’s refractory period, while having no effect on potassium channels [9].
3. Diagnosis
The diagnosis of DIPN remains a diagnosis of exclusion, mainly based on the patient’s history. The clinician needs to consider DIPN especially in the setting of recent initiation of drugs known to cause neuropathy, such as a chemotherapeutic agent. As stated previously, patients typically present with paresthesia in a stocking-glove distribution week to months after starting a new drug regimen [2]. Interestingly, risk factors for DIPN vary by individual drug. For instance, risk of DIPN with brentuximab does not increase with factors such as sex, age, diabetes mellitus, BMI, or prior underlying neuropathy [10]. Taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy, on the other hand, demonstrates increasing risk with demographic factors such as age, neuropathy at baseline, smoking, and diabetes [11]. DIPN, while mainly a clinical diagnosis, will exhibit an axonal pattern of damage on both motor and sensory nerve conduction studies [12].
4. Cardiovascular Agents
4.1. Amiodarone
Amiodarone is a class III anti-arrhythmic used to prevent numerous arrhythmias of atrial and ventricular origin. Although the medication has several known adverse effects on the lungs, thyroid and eye, peripheral neuropathy has not been characterized to the same degree. A recent study examining amiodarone use in 45,173 patients found the incidence rate of peripheral neuropathy to be 2.38 per 1000 person-years [13]. A previous study of 707 amiodarone-treated patients noted only 2 patients who experienced peripheral neuropathy [1]. The greatest risk factors were found to include increased dose and duration of therapy, with affected patients exhibited both sensory and motor deficits. Previous investigations on amiodarone-induced peripheral neuropathy attributed such deficits to both demyelination and axonal loss with lysosomal inclusions. Recent findings have further characterized the degenerative process, suggesting the contribution of enhanced oxidative stress and impaired lysosomal degradation within Schwann cells as an additional component to the neuronal pathogenesis [14].
4.2. Statins
The Statin class consists of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, including simvastatin, pravastatin, and fluvastatin. Although these are universally prescribed for the reduction of cardiovascular disease and mortality, long-term use of statins can result in adverse effects such as peripheral neuropathy. Previous cohort studies have shown an increase in the incidence of DIPN in patients treated with statins, and increased duration of treatment appears to be a significant risk factor in the development of sensory neuropathy. In a population of 1,084 patients diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, an odds ratio of 4.6 was found for patients treated with a statin, while another study of 2,040 patients with statin exposure reported an odds ratio of 1.19 for development of peripheral neuropathy [1]. While there is a lack of recent significant research, a study comparing sensory perception among 30 statin-treated patients against patients without statins demonstrated decreased vibration perception in the study group, suggestive of peripheral sensory neuropathy [15] In a recent case-control study, sensory and motor wave features in peripheral nerves were evaluated in 39 patients who had received statin treatment using electrodiagnosis. While there was no significant difference in peripheral neuropathy as defined clinically, the amplitude of peroneal motor and sural sensory nerve responses exhibited significant differences. Additionally, a 2017 meta-analysis of 3,104 patients from 1999 to 2013 showed no association between history of statin use and increased risk of idiopathic polyneuropathy [16].
To date, the pathogenesis of statin-induced peripheral neuropathy is not well understood. Current theories surmise that the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis and alterations of membrane function within nerves disrupts ubiquinone synthesis, subsequently disturbing energy utilization within neurons [17]. While clinical data has shown statins to be neuropathic pain-inducing, pre-clinical data has shown statins to be neuropathic pain attenuating – possibly attributed to cholesterol independent inhibition of the inflammatory cascade and free radical generation [18]. While the significant cardiovascular benefit of statins still appears to outweigh the risks of peripheral neuropathy development, further research is needed to better understand the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations [19]. Table 1 lists the characteristics of cardiovascular agent-related DIPN.
Table 1.
Characteristics of cardiovascular agent-related DIPN.
| Agent Group | Drug Dosage | Incidence | Risk Factors | Pathogenesis | Neuropathy Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statin | Increased treatment duration and cumulative dose associated with increased polyneuropathy relative risk [17] | Odds ratio: 1.2-4.6 |
Duration of treatment >2 years |
alterations of membrane function, disruption of ubiquinone synthesis and energy utilization in nerves | Primarily sensory neuropathy |
| Amiodarone | >200 mg has highest association with DIPN [19] | 2/707 patients 2.38/1000 person-years |
Increased dose, length of drug therapy | Demyelination, loss of large axons with lysosomal inclusions; oxidative stress and impaired lysosomal degradation | Sensory and motor, chronic |
5. Chemotherapeutic Agents
5.1. Vinca Alkaloids
The Vinca alkaloids are chemotherapeutics used for the treatment of hematologic, lymphatic, and gynecologic malignances, as well as solid tumors. Among this class of therapies, vincristine is associated with the greatest incidence of neurotoxicity, although studies have also reported DIPN in patients treated with vinorelbine and vinblastine [20]. In afflicted patients, the neuropathy typically manifests in the distal lower extremities and progresses proximally. Changes in sensation are characterized by decreased touch, vibration, and temperature sensations as well as paresthesia and diminished deep tendon reflexes (DTR) [21]. Higher single dose and cumulative drug concentration are predictive risk factors for the development of DIPN, but the incidence varies widely due to the lack of standardized patient assessment and grading of severity. In pediatric populations, studies report as high as 96% of patients developed some degree of vinca-induced DIPN, with incidence rates ranging from 0% to 37% for grade 3 or 4 [21]. While the pathogenicity is not yet fully understood, a proposed mechanism suggests a polymerization dysfunction within axonal microtubules as a contributory mechanism [21].
5.2. Platinum
All platinum chemotherapeutics are characterized by chronic sensory neuronopathic effects via accumulation in the dorsal root ganglion, with an incidence of 30-40% in patients treated by oxaliplatin and cisplatin [22, 23]. Risk relates to higher cumulative dosing, and a “coasting” phenomenon may be observed as effects tend to worsen in the months after stopping treatment. In addition to the long-term manifestations, Oxaliplatin is also associated with acute,cold-induced neuropathic pain. The mechanism of chronic pathogenesis with cisplatin involves damage to dorsal root sensory neurons mediated by irreversible cross-linking to DNA and neuronal apoptosis, while the acute toxicity seen with oxaliplatin is attributed to voltage-dependent sodium channel dysfunction [20].
5.3. Bortezomib & Thalidomide
Thalidomide and Bortezomib are both used in the treatment of multiple myeloma. Higher cumulative doses and longer treatment durations are risk factors for the development of DIPN. Incidence has been reported between 23% and 70% with thalidomide treatment, up to one third of patients grade 3-4, and between 37% and 64% in bortezomib treatment with up to 13% grade 3-4 [24, 25]. While both cause a predominantly sensory neuropathy, thalidomide is characterized by prominent paresthesia in the hands and feet along with numbness and mild motor dysfunction. Bortezomib shows distal paresthesia and numbness especially in the lower limbs, along with substantial small c-fiber involvement presenting as sharp or burning pain in the feet [26]. While the mechanism of pathogenesis appears multifactorial, bortezomib is shown to promote mitochondrial calcium release leading to apoptotic cascade activation and interference with microtubule stabilization. A recent study by Yin et al. proposes that bortezomib-induced neuropathy generates from activation of Activating Transcription Factor 3 (ATF3) in primary cultured Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) neurons and in DRG, as demonstrated in painful peripheral neuropathic rats [27]. Thalidomide’s neurotoxicity may be related to antiangiogenic activities, among other potential mechanisms [24].
5.4. Epothilones
Epothilones such as ixabepilone are used in the treatment of advanced breast cancer as well as refractory prostate cancer. Risk factors for the development of DIPN include dose per treatment cycle, duration of infusion, and cumulative dose [28]. The neuropathy is predominantly sensory and cumulative, and all-grade incidences ranged from 15% in the neoadjuvant setting to 64% with monotherapy for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer [28]. The mechanism of pathogenesis is unclear, but the neurotoxicity profile is similar to that of other microtubule-stabilizing agents such as taxanes [28].
5.5. Arsenic Trioxides
Arsenic Trioxide (ATO) is often used in the treatment of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL). While highly effective, peripheral neuropathy is a notable side effect of ATO treatment in APL patient populations. In a recent retrospective analysis, the cumulative incidence of peripheral neuropathy was found to be 10.3% following ATO therapy [29]. The neuropathy has been characterized as both mild and reversible, but sensory and motor polyneuropathy has been observed chronically. The pathogenesis is not well understood, but findings of acute axonal damage with demyelination have been reported previously in addition to associations with thiamine deficient states [30].
5.6. Taxanes
Taxane compounds like Paclitaxel and Docetaxel have been utilized for advanced ovarian and breast cancer and are associated with DIPNvia the protein kinase C/extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway in the spinal cord in lumbar segments 4-6 and dorsal root ganglions [31]. Increased frequency and dose, as well as cumulative dosing, increases the risk of taxane-induced DIPN, but most patients show symptom improvement or complete resolution after 6 months, with the exception of the most severe cases. The incidence of DIPN was found to be 30% when paclitaxel was administered as a single agent in the treatment of breast cancer. When used at a lower dose and in combination with carboplatin for treatment of ovarian cancer, the incidence decreased to 6%. However, the incidence of DIPN has been reported up to 70% with the addition of platinum chemotherapy to paclitaxel [1]. Although primarily a sensory neuropathy, severe cases have included motor deficits [20]. Taxane compounds interfere with metabolic calcium signaling, subsequently interfering with tubulin depolymerization in the neuronal axons. Paclitaxel has also been shown to alter sensory axon and neuroglial function within the dorsal root ganglion. Table 2 lists the characteristics of chemotherapeutic agent-related DIPN.
Table 2.
Characteristics of chemotherapeutic agent-related DIPN.
| Agent Group | DIPN Dosage | Incidence | Risk Factors | Pathogenesis | Neuropathy Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinca alkaloids | 2 mg [21] | All grade: up to 96% Severe (grade 3-4): up to 37% |
Single dose level, cumulative dose level | Microtubule-mediated cellular and axonal transport dysfunction | Sensory; distal lower extremities and progresses proximally. |
| Platinum | 60 mg/m2 [20] | 30%-40% | Single dose level, cumulative dose level, infusion duration (oxaliplatin), treatment duration (oxaliplatin) Late presentation common with cisplatin |
Cisplatin, Oxaliplatin (chronic): Irreversible cross-linking to DNA and neuronal apoptosis Oxaliplatin (acute): voltage-dependent sodium channel dysfunction |
Cisplatin: Chronic sensory neuropathy Oxaliplatin: acute symptoms and chronic sensory neuropathy |
| Bortezomib and thalidomide | Bortezomib: 5th cycle dose of 30 mg/m2 [23] Thalidomide: >200 mg/ d |
Bortezomib: 37-64%, up to 33% severe Thalidomide: 23-70%, up to 13% severe |
Single dose level, cumulative dose level, treatment duration | Mitochondrial dysfunction in axons; mitochondrial calcium release leading to apoptotic cascade activation |
Bortezomib: Small fiber sensory neuropathy (i.e. c-fibers) associated with burning pain; distal lower limbs Thalidomide: sensory neuropathy – prominent paresthesia in the hands and feet along with numbness and mild motor dysfunction |
| Epothilones | >40 mg/ m2 [26] | 15-64% | dose per treatment cycle, duration of infusion, and cumulative dose | Microtubule dysfunction | Sensory predominant, reversible |
| Arsenic trioxides | 10 mg/d [28] | 2-42% | Acute axonal damage and demyelination | chronic sensory and motor polyneuropathy | |
| Taxanes | 175 mg/m2 every three weeks [20] | Up to 30% as monotherapy, 70% when combined with platinum |
Increased frequency and dose, as well as cumulative dosing | interfere with metabolic calcium signaling; disruption of tubulin depolymerization in axonal transport | Sensory predominant with motor deficits in severe |
6. Antibiotics
6.1. Antimycobacterials
Various classes of antibiotics have been associated with peripheral neuropathy, but only the antimycobacterial agents and metronidazole are considered herein. Tuberculosis (TB) treatment requires multiple drugs for months to prevent resistance, Including Isoniazid (INH), Ethambutol (EMB), rifampin, and pyrazinamide. Both INH and EMB are associated with DIPN, as well as linezolid, a second line drug for TB treatment.
INH is an inhibitor of mycolic acid synthesis of mycobacteria, but also interferes with human vitamin B6 synthesis, which is the suspected mechanism behind INH-induced peripheral neuropathy. According to van der Watt et al., the risk of developing DIPN is dose dependent, as 2-12% of patients treated with low or standard doses of isoniazid at 3-5 mg/kg/day developed DIPN, whereas 44% treated with increased doses of 16-25 mg/kg/day developed DIPN [32]. These rates are increased with concomitant HIV infection, but HIV status does not affect symptom onset. Biehl and Nimitz report that those receiving higher doses of INH (>10 mg/kg/day) were more likely to develop neuropathy complications within 3-5 weeks, while those receiving doses of 3-5 mg/kg/day were shown to develop complications after 16 weeks [33]. These complications can be reversed within weeks to months via supplementation with pyridoxine, and it is recommended that vitamin B6 be given concomitantly with INH.
Ethambutol inhibits mycobacterial cell wall synthesis but is associated with the serious side effect of optic neuritis. It is suspected that EMB chelates zinc, affecting mitochondrial metal-containing enzymes in retinal ganglion neurons, as demonstrated by Yoon et al. [34]. The usual onset of symptom is months after starting treatment and usually presents as bilateral vision loss, which is mostly reversible. However, unilateral vision loss at first has been noted, with an ultimate loss in the other eye. Moreover, Koul et al. report that EMB toxicity is dose dependent, in that the percentage of optic neuritis in those taking >35 mg/kg/day, 25 mg/kg/day, and 15 mg/kg/day was 18%, 6%, and <1% respectively [35].
Irreversible peripheral neuropathy has also been associated with linezolid, a bacterial protein synthesis inhibitor used to treat MRSA and multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB). There is some debate as to whether linezolid alone can cause DIPN since it is usually implemented after regimens of isoniazid and ethambutol. For example, in a 30-person retrospective trial regarding MDR-TB treatment, patients were treated with 600 mg linezolid, at least 3 other antibiotics, and vitamin B6. Six patients developed irreversible peripheral neuropathy, yet a correlation between linezolid and DIPN could not be made due to the MDR-TB treatment regimen [36]. However, in another study, 9 of 94 patients with osteomyelitis developed DIPN after being treated with linezolid alone or in combination with rifampin [37].
Metronidazole (MNZ), a bacterial DNA binder, used for a variety of bacterial and protozoan infections, has also been associated with DIPN. DIPN is a rare consequence of prolonged treatment with MNZ, but in a study of 13 patients with Crohn’s disease treated with 15-20 mg/kg/day MNZ for months, 11 developed peripheral neuropathy, reversible upon cessation of treatment [38]. Interestingly, a case of autonomic neuropathy in a 15-year-old treated with MNZ for vaginitis has been reported, as well as an instance in which long term use caused reversible optic neuropathy [39]. (Table 3) lists the characteristics of antibiotic-related DIPN.
Table 3.
Characteristics of antibiotic-related DIPN.
| Antibiotic | Incidence of PN | Risk Factors for PN | Pathogenesis | Type of Neuropathy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isoniazid | 2-44% | Alcohol dependence, malnutrition, diabetes, HIV, elderly and pregnant | Interference with vitamin B6 synthesis | Sensory peripheral neuropathy |
| Ethambutol | 1-18% | increasing age, prolonged duration of EMB, a higher dose, hypertension, poor renal function, diabetes, and concurrent optic neuritis, related to tobacco and alcohol [4] | Zinc chelation affecting mitochondrial metal-containing enzymes and excitotoxic pathway | Optic neuropathy |
| Linezolid | 13-20% | Prolonged treatment and increased doses | Unknown, could be related to protein inhibition and mitochondrial toxicity | Sensory peripheral neuropathy and optic neuropathy |
| Metronidazole | 10-85% | Chronic treatment and increased dose | Axonal degeneration, shown to bind to neuronal RNA | Motor and Sensory peripheral neuropathy, optic and autonomic neuropathy |
7. Immunosuppressive Agents
Immunosuppressant drugs of various classes have been shown to cause DIPN. Biologicals like adalimumab, infliximab, and etanercept are tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitors indicated for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and other diseases to tamper the inflammatory response. They can unfortunately induce autoimmune conditions themselves, including Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), Miller Fisher syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, and others. Shin et al. report that a 56-year-old with rheumatoid arthritis presented with ataxia and dysarthria after a flu-vaccine and infusion with infliximab, thereon progressing to hyporeflexia, generalized weakness, and abducens palsy after subsequent infliximab injections. The symptoms were consistent with Miller-Fisher syndrome and the diagnosis was ultimately confirmed. The patient rapidly improved after two doses of IVIG [40]. Similarly, the FDA has reported 15 patients who developed GBS roughly 4 months after starting TNF-α inhibitor therapy. Nine received infliximab, five received etanercept, and one received adalimumab. Once each drug was stopped and IVIG, plasmapheresis, or corticosteroids started, symptoms regressed partially or completely in 12 patients, and remained in another [40]. Some patients had antecedent infections that predisposed them to developing GBS, but the involvement of biologicals in the development of symptoms cannot be ignored given the improvement once the drug was stopped.
Interferons are cytokines that inhibit T-cell proliferation, increase anti-inflammatory cytokines, and are known to decrease TNF-α. These drugs are used as therapy for a wide array of disease, with the noteworthy indications of interferon β’s role against multiple sclerosis, and interferon α’s application against hepatitis B and C. DIPN caused by interferons is rare, but a few cases exist in which interferon α treatment for chronic hepatitis caused both autoimmune polyradiculopathy and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. Once treatment was stopped and either plasmapheresis or IVIG started, the patients’ leg weakness and paresthesia improved [41, 42]. Additionally, a few reports exist regarding interferon β-induced peripheral neuropathy in patients with MS, also resolving with cessation of treatment. Additionally, focal neuropathy at interferon β injection sites for MS has been reported, specifically in the radial nerve distribution, again resolving in months after cessation [43].
A relatively new treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, Leflunomide inhibits proliferation of T cells and pyrimidine synthesis by inhibiting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase. It has also been associated with reversible peripheral neuropathy. Bharadwaj and Haroon reported peripheral neuropathy developing in 10% of patients treated with leflunomide. Those who experienced neuropathy reported paresthesia, confirmed by nerve conduction studies, about 3 months after starting the drug, and stopping the drug reversed the symptoms [44]. Similarly, a case report of 14 instances of leflunomide-induced neuropathy noted that, although some patients were on other neurotoxic drugs, had a history of diabetes, a previous diagnosis of neuropathy, or other risk factors for neuropathy, their neuropathy worsened while on leflunomide or improved once the drug was stopped [45]. DIPN is possible with the treatment of leflunomide, but other contributing factors warrant close monitoring, especially when starting treatment [46]. Table 4 lists the characteristics of immunosuppressant-related DIPN.
Table 4.
Characteristics of immunosuppressant-related DIPN.
| Drug Class | Incidence of PN | Risk Factors for PN | Pathogenesis | Type of Neuropathy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biologicals | .003% | Dose and duration of drug, antecedent URI or fever-like illness, too little TNF-α | T cell and humoral immune attack on peripheral myelin [1, 9], vasculitis-induced nerve ischemia, and inhibition of axon signaling | Guillain-Barré syndrome, Miller Fisher syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, multifocal motor neuropathy with conduction block, mononeuropathy multiplex, and axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathies |
| Interferons | Rare | Concomitant autoimmune disease, injection site of interferon β | immune mediated myelin degradation, vessel occlusion leading to nerve ischemia, induction of anti-GM1 antibodies | Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, acute axonal polyneuropathy, demyelinating polyneuropathy, vasculitic neuropathy |
| Leflunomide | 5-10% | Older age, history of diabetes, previous use of neurotoxic drugs, alcoholism | Possibly due to drug induced neurologic vasculitis, epineural perivascular inflammation [43] | Distal axonal, sensory or sensorimotor polyneuropathy |
8. NRTIS
NRTIs associated with peripheral neuropathy include zalcitabine (ddC), didanosine (ddI), stavudine (d4T), and lamivudine. The incidence of peripheral neuropathy with these drugs varies by agent and is a frequent reason cited for discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy. Up to 10% of patients taking zalcitabine have been reported to stop treatment due to this side effect [47]. 34% of patients treated with didanosine develop painful peripheral neuropathy [48], and 1-2% stop therapy as a result [47]. In patients treated with stavudine, 49.8% of patients taking 40 mg b.i.d. developed peripheral neuropathy, and 11.2% taking less than 30 mg b.i.d. developed peripheral neuropathy [48]. Lamivudine seems to have a low incidence of peripheral neuropathy compared to other NRTIs, although the reason for this is unclear [49].
Patient-associated risk factors for NRTI-induced peripheral neuropathy include prior underlying neuropathy [50], prior HIV-associated neuropathy, underlying malignancy [51], and low CD4 count or immunodeficiency as shown in Table 5. Specifically, CD4+ T lymphocyte count <50 cells/mm3 was strongly associated with an increased risk of NRTI-induced peripheral neuropathy [48]. Risk of painful NRTI-associated peripheral neuropathy also varies with dose and treatment regimen: higher doses of NRTIS [51, 52], as well as combination therapy both, seem to be associated with increased incidence of peripheral neuropathy [49]. Additionally, genetic or age-related metabolic impairments may exacerbate side effects due to reduced drug clearance [49]. Alcohol use is common in patients taking NRTIs and has been associated with worse peripheral neuropathy due to the enhanced ddC effect on mitochondrial DNA damage [53].
Table 5.
Peripheral neuropathy with nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors.
| Agent Group | Incidence | Dose | Risk Factors | Pathogenesis | Type of Neuropathy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NRTIs | Zalcitabine: 30-100% Didanosine: 23% Stavudine: 31% Lamivudine: rare |
Zalcitabine 2.25 mg/day Didanosine: 400 mg/day Stavudine: 30-40 mg b.i.d. Lamivudine: 300 mg/day |
Prior neuropathy Underlying malignancy Low CD4 count High dose Combination therapy Metabolic impairments Alcohol use |
Inhibition of γ-DNA polymerase leading to mitochondrial dysfunction |
Distal axonal-type sensory neuropathy |
The pathophysiology of peripheral neuropathy due to NRTIs is not entirely understood; however, it is thought to be primarily due to inhibition of γ-DNA polymerase, which is responsible for replication of mitochondrial DNA. This leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, accumulation of toxic metabolites, and increased lactate production [51]. The neuropathy associated with NRTI use is primarily peripheral, likely due to the fact that peripheral nerves have a leakier blood-nerve barrier compared to central neurons [51], possibly making them more susceptible than central neurons to damage by NRTIs. NRTIs cause a distal axonal-type sensory neuropathy that can be similar to and difficult to distinguish from primary HIV-induced neuropathy [51]. It often manifests clinically as burning, shooting pain, distal weakness, and a decreased ankle jerk reflex [47]. Electrophysiology studies on patients with NRTI-induced peripheral neuropathy show a decreased action potential amplitude with a normal latency, which is a pattern commonly seen in sensory axonal degeneration [49].
9. Other Agents
9.1. Levodopa
Peripheral neuropathy as a side effect of levodopa therapy in patients with Parkinson’s disease has been shown to occur in as many as 55% of patients taking levodopa [54], and at least 20% of patients with cumulative exposure greater than three years as shown in Table 6 [55].
Table 6. Peripheral neuropathy with other agents.
| Agent Group | Incidence | Dose | Risk Factors | Pathogenesis | Type of Neuropathy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levodopa | 20-55% | Average in patients without neuropathy: 400 mg/day Average dose in patients with neuropathy: 700 mg/day Highest risk at doses > 1500 mg/day |
High dose treatment High serum Hcy Low vitamin B12 LCIG administration Low BMI |
Accumulation of serum homocysteine and cobalamin-related metabolites, free radical accumulation | Axonal-type sensory peripheral neuropathy |
| Triazole | 9-30% | 150-350 mg. b.i.d. | Diabetes mellitus High dose treatment |
Unclear: possibly mitochondrial-dependent | Small fiber axonal-type, predominantly sensory neuropathy, symmetrical |
The risk of developing peripheral neuropathy increases with higher doses, and this risk is particularly high at doses higher than 1500 mg/day [56]. Ceravolo et al. showed that the average dose in patients not reporting neuropathy was 400 mg/day, while the average dose in patients reporting neuropathy was 700 mg/day [57]. Higher blood concentrations of Homocysteine (HCY), and lower levels of vitamin B12 [55] are also associated with an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy. Route of administration affects the incidence of peripheral neuropathy: Levodopa-Carbidopa Intestinal Gel Infusion (LCIG) facilitates higher drug levels compared to oral treatment [56]. A lower BMI seems to correlate with a higher incidence of peripheral neuropathy [56]. Some studies have also suggested that variations in methyl tetrahydrofolate reductase could predispose some patients to the development of peripheral neuropathy [57].
The pathophysiology of levodopa-induced neuropathy seems to be mediated by accumulation of serum homocysteine, cobalamin-related metabolites, and methylmalonic acid and a decrease in the levels of vitamin B12 [55]. Conversion of levodopa to dopamine requires a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine, leading to Hcy formation. Remethylation of Hcy requires vitamin B12, reducing vitamin B12 levels and increasing Hcy. In animal studies, levodopa intake was shown to increase serum Hcy concentration [54] and free radical accumulation [58].
The peripheral neuropathy seen with levodopa treatment is an axonal-type sensory peripheral neuropathy that tends to be mildly symptomatic or even asymptomatic in some cases [54]. On nerve conduction studies, a reduction in sural nerve amplitude has been noted [57].
9.2. Azoles
The reported incidence of peripheral neuropathy in patients treated with azoles is highly varied in the literature. The manufacturer’s data sheets for the triazole drugs list peripheral neuropathy as a rare side effect; however, Boussaud et al. report an incidence of 30% (n=8) in transplant patients taking voriconazole [59], and Baxter et al. report incidence rates of 9% and 17% in patients treated with voriconazole and itraconazole, respectively [60].
The risk of peripheral neuropathy associated with azole therapy seems to be higher in patients with diabetes mellitus, perhaps due to the predisposition to neuropathies in this population [61]. An increased risk of neuropathy has been associated with higher doses of azoles, from 150-350 mg. b.i.d. [59, 60]; however, other studies have shown peripheral neuropathy even when patients are within the therapeutic window [60].
The pathophysiology of azole-induced peripheral neuropathy is unclear. The azole group has been theorized to play a role in the development of peripheral neuropathy; however, many other drugs that have not been shown to induce peripheral neuropathy include azole groups [60]. Chen et al. suggested a mitochondrial-dependent mechanism [62], and mitochondrial destruction has been implicated in other drug-induced neuropathies. A possible predisposition may be the wide variety of genetic polymorphisms in the CYP2C19 system, which metabolizes voriconazole, resulting in a wide range of serum concentrations [63]. Cartwright et al. have observed excess accumulation of phospholipids in canine neurons treated with azoles; however, this has not been shown to cause peripheral neuropathy in humans [64].
Symptoms of azole-induced peripheral neuropathy include tingling and numbness that resolve after discontinuation of therapy [60], decreased position and vibratory sensation, and abnormal EMG [61]. The neuropathy is sensory-predominant, axonal, and typically symmetrical, with small fibers affected the earliest [60, 65].
10. Treatment
Most commonly, DIPN presents with only mild sensory paraesthesias and does not warrant any specific intervention other than a possible reduction or cessation of the specific agent causing neuropathy [1]. However, when the neuropathy causes significant disability or pain several treatment options are available to help reduce the DIPN and subsequent pain. Current management includes Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs), serotonin and noradrenalin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs and SNRIs), gabapentinoids, and other interventional modalities.
While the exact mechanism of TCAs analgesic effects has not been fully elicited, it is thought to act by activating the descending inhibitory pain pathway. TCAs exert analgesic effects at lower doses than typically needed for antidepressant action, and via a mechanism independent of their antidepressant effects [66]. TCAs are well studied, with much evidence to support their use in randomized placebo-controlled studies which evaluated amitriptyline and nortriptyline in the treatment of neuropathic pain. TCAs should be started at low doses (10-25mg) and slowly titrated up to analgesic effects primarily due to concerns for adverse anticholinergic effects [67]. While the risk profile for TCAs is relatively low, precautions should be used in patients with comorbidities such as heart disease, glaucoma, and prostatic hyperplasia. Dry mouth and constipation are common side effects but are rarely seen in the low doses used for neuropathic pain.
Gabapentinoids such as gabapentin and pregabalin have also proven efficacious in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Structurally similar to GABA, each bind to the α2δ subunit of voltage-dependent calcium channel [67]. Their analgesic effect occurs by suppression of the presynaptic calcium influx required for the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Gabapentinoids exhibit a low-risk profile, and common adverse effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, sedation, and edema. Dosage for gabapentin commonly begins at 150mg twice daily and can be titrated up to 300 mg b.i.d.
Duloxetine is a selective noradrenalin reuptake inhibitor commonly used in the treatment of depression and may also be used for analgesia in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Like TCAs, duloxetine activates the descending pain inhibitory system by increasing the availability of serotonin and noradrenalin in the synaptic cleft. Duloxetine is generally well tolerated; common adverse reactions include somnolence, nausea, and constipation [67]. Given Duloxetine’s lower risk profile, it is sometimes preferred over TCAs for neuropathic pain.
The pain inflicted by DIPN is often refractory to pharmacologic non-interventional therapies. In this setting, interventional therapies can offer patients some relief. A recent literature review examined neural blockade, Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS), intrathecal medication, and neurosurgical interventions for neuropathic pain [68]. Due to the lack of quality clinical trials, the authors were unable to provide strong recommendations for interventional therapies in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Interventional therapies should be withheld until the patient has failed pharmacologic, non-interventional therapies.
Aside from the pharmacologic interventions discussed above, recent evidence has emerged regarding the use of vitamins and other alternative therapies in the treatment of neuropathy. Several studies indicate that these alternative medicines may offer significant benefit to patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy and neuropathic pain. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA), acetyl-L-carnitine, benfotiamine, methylcobalamin, gamma-linolenic acid, magnesium, and topical capsaicin have exhibited considerable impact in reducing neuropathic symptoms [69]. Of note, these studies have not explored directly their role in DIPN. Rather, they have exhibited efficacy in other common causes of neuropathy, as supplementation to alternative therapies resulted in significant improvements in diabetic neuropathy. One study investigated the addition of a supplement containing L-methylfolate, pyridoxal 5-phosphate, and methylcobalamin to other medications (e.g., pregabalin, gabapentin, or duloxetine) with a resultant 26% decrease in pain symptoms compared to 15% for those taking the medication alone [70]. Encouragingly, these adjuvants accomplished significant reductions in pain symptoms without incurring any significant adverse effects.
Lastly, it is worth mentioning some exciting developments for the prophylaxis of DIPN in certain classes of chemotherapeutic compounds. The neuropathic side effects of bortezomib and taxanes, in particular, have been limited by concomitant administration of tamoxifen, a protein kinase C inhibitor [31].
Conclusion
Drug-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common and painful condition caused by many different and frequently prescribed medications. Most often, DIPN is seen in chemotherapeutic agents, antimicrobials, cardiovascular drugs, psychotropic, and anticonvulsant drugs. While certain drugs exhibit more consistent neuropathic side effects, such as the chemotherapeutic compounds, others are more commonly prescribed by a larger proportion of providers, such as the statins. As such, awareness of these drugs’ potential for adverse neuropathic effect is important for providers caring for patients receiving said drugs who report new onset symptoms of pain, paresthesia, or weakness. DIPN is more likely to occur in patients with concomitant risk factors such as preexisting neuropathy, diabetes, and associated genetically predisposing diseases. Prevention of DIPN is especially important because treatment often proves challenging. While many pharmacologic therapies have demonstrated analgesic potential in the pain caused by DIPN, many patients remain refractive to treatment. More studies are needed to elucidate the effectiveness of interventional, neuromodulating therapies.
Acknowledgements
Declared none.
List of Abbreviations
- ALA
Alpha-lipoic Acid
- APL
Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
- ATF3
Activating Transcription Factor 3
- ATO
Arsenic Trioxide
- DIPN
Drug-induced Peripheral Neuropathy
- DRG
Dorsal Root Ganglion
- EMB
Ethambutol
- HCY
Homocysteine
- INH
Isoniazid
- LCIG
Levodopa-carbidopa Intestinal Gel infusion
- MNZ
Metronidazole
- MS
Multiple Sclerosis
- NRTI
Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors
- SCS
Spinal Cord Stimulation
- SSRIs and SNRIs
Serotonin and Noradrenalin Reuptake Inhibitor
- TCA
Tricyclic Antidepressant
- TNF-α
Tumor Necrosis Factor-α
Consent for Publication
Not applicable.
Funding
None.
Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest, financial or otherwise.
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