Craig R. DuBois, M.D. - Role of antidepressants
	Craig R. DuBois, M.D. - How antidepressants work for pain related conditions

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are sometimes used to treat facial pain and nerve pain.  Tri-cyclic antidepressants have been proven more effective for neuropathic pain.  Withdrawal symptoms are possible, so gradual tapering is best when an antidepressant is stopped.

As with any medication, side effects are possible.  Side effects or adverse reactions to tri-cyclic antidepressants may include constipation, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, decreased sexual functioning, blurred vision, dizziness, daytime drowsiness and an increase in heart rate.  Side effects to some of the newer antidepressants can be sexual dysfunction, headache, nausea, nervousness, insomnia, jittery feeling or agitation.  MAOI medications have many restrictions because of adverse reactions when combined with various medications and foods, so talk with your pharmacist/doctor about things to avoid.

See Medication Treatment Options for Trigeminal Neuralgia chart for specific details on medications used to treat trigeminal neuralgia.

Antidepressants in Pain Control
http://www.ncahs.nsw.gov.au/pain/index.php?pageid=740&siteid=184

Atypical and Idiopathic Facial Pain
http://www.eaom.net/app/prvt/VediNotizia.d/Notizia-61

Neuropathic pain responds better to tri-cyclic antidepressants (TCAs) than to SSRIs or placebo.
http://www.uwo.ca/cns/ebn/CATs/pain-tca-therapy.htm

Pharmacological therapy of atypical facial pain:  actuality and perspective
http://www.springerlink.com/content/tu2647464x8lk663/

Organizations

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