CIDP (chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy) can affect different people in different ways. Similarly, not everyone will respond the same way to CIDP treatments or have the same results.

To help properly diagnose and treat people with CIDP, the European Academy of Neurology/Peripheral Nerve Society—a group of medical experts—established guidelines for CIDP diagnosis and treatment in 2005 and most recently revised them in 2021. Understanding the available first-line treatment options and recommendations outlined below may help inform you as you partner with your doctor to find the right plan for you.

Be sure to consult your healthcare team with any questions or concerns about your treatment plan and goals.

Types of treatment for CIDP

The following are recommended by the European Academy of Neurology/Peripheral Nerve Society as first-line treatments for CIDP.

Immunoglobulins

Immunoglobulins are a common treatment for CIDP. They are naturally occurring antibodies from healthy donors, which can be given as IVIg (intravenous immunoglobulin) or SCIg (subcutaneous immunoglobulin) infusions. IVIg is delivered directly into the bloodstream through a vein, while SCIg is an infusion given under the skin.

Speak with your doctor to learn more about immunoglobulin therapies.

Steroids

Corticosteroids are recommended as a treatment for CIDP and can be taken orally or given through an IV. These may be prescribed daily at first, but over time, your doctor may lessen the dose or change the frequency of treatment based on symptom improvement.

Ask your doctor for more information about corticosteroids.

Plasma exchange

Plasma exchange is another initial treatment used for treating CIDP. This therapy removes blood from a patient and separates the plasma. The plasma is replaced with a protein called albumin and/or healthy donor plasma and reinfused back into the patient.

Talk to your doctor if you have questions about plasma exchange.

Discussing treatment options with your doctor

There can be a lot to think about when considering a CIDP treatment: how well it works and potential side effects, how it’s given, and more. Plus, it’s important to share with your care team your current symptoms and abilities, any changes you experience, and what factors matter most to you personally. Here are some questions you can consider asking your doctor about managing CIDP:

1. What treatment options should I consider?
2. Which of those treatments is a recommended fit for me and why?
3. What side effects should I expect or look out for?
4. How is this treatment given and how often do I need it?

Did you know?

In addition to questions you might have about CIDP treatment options, you may also want to ask your doctor about the following:

Symptom tracking

Keeping track of your symptoms can help your doctor better understand how well your treatment is working for you. This easy-to-use discussion guide is aimed to help you track your symptoms and abilities to have a more productive conversation with your doctor.

Physical and occupational therapy

Physical and occupational therapy can be important for managing CIDP when properly incorporated into your care plan. They may help you reduce pain, build strength, and increase stamina. They could also help prevent muscle and joint problems and improve balance and movement. Always let your doctor know how you are doing with these therapies.

Emotional well-being

A CIDP diagnosis can bring up a lot of difficult feelings. Taking care of your emotional well-being may help you manage challenges and could make a difference in how you’re feeling physically. If possible, surround yourself with family and friends who are understanding of your condition and with whom you can share your ups and downs. You can also talk to your healthcare team about advice on how to help manage how you’re feeling.

Moving forward

Understanding the evolving treatment options for CIDP may offer hope and help empower those in the CIDP community. By staying informed and working closely with your healthcare team, you can have an active role in your treatment journey as you work toward meeting your personal goals.