Preliminary data from trials of NGF in people with and without neuropathy suggest that the drug is safe and well tolerated. A few years ago, Genentech had initially agreed to supply the drug, but when the study was finally ready to begin enrolling, Genentech rescinded its original offer. Hundreds of hours had been dedicated to developing this protocol at public expense and with overwhelming activist support. Nearly single-handedly, Matt was able to reverse the company's decision, ensuring that the time and money would not be wasted. His efforts helped guaranty that people living with AIDS would see NGF evaluated as a therapy and reaffirmed that by getting involved, each of us can truly make a difference.
Peripheral neuropathy is characterized by pain, tingling, burning or numbness in the hands and feet.
All currently available options treat the symptoms of pain associated with peripheral neuropathy, not the cause. These include acupuncture and antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and mexilitine. While treating the symptoms associated with neuropathy is important, neuropathy in HIV can have many different causes. Neuropathy caused by HIV involves both large and small nerve fibers. Large nerve fibers are related to burning and tingling sensations in the feet and loss of sensation, whereas small nerve fibers are associated with pain, loss of sensation to heat and cold and ulceration.