Craig R. DuBois, M.D. - Medications and side effects
	Donald R. Nixdorf, D.D.S., M.S. - Medications and potential oral conditions
	Michael E. Foster, D.D.S. - Medications and potential oral problems
	David A. Sirois, D.M.D., Ph.D. - Complications of taking pain medications
	Donald R. Nixdorf, D.D.S., M.S. - Dry mouth from opioids and tricyclic antidepressants

Medication Side Effects

A side effect is an undesirable secondary effect that happens in addition to a drug’s therapeutic effect.  While it is always good to know about the potential side effects of the medications being taken, these are events that could happen. While some might not be able to tolerate a particular medicine; others will have few or no ill effects.

Almost all of the medications used for facial pain can have potential side effects of drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and decreased mental alertness— especially when first started or when a dosage is raised.  Talk with your health care practitioner about selected drug interactions with alcohol and other items before taking these medications.  Avoid driving, using machines, or doing any other dangerous activities until you have adjusted to the medication.

Do not abruptly stop taking any of the facial pain medications --talk with your doctor about any reactions or symptoms that occur.  Note if allergic reactions such as skin rash, itchiness, or hives occur, notify your physician immediately and do not take another dose unless directed to do so by your medical professional.
Withdrawal symptoms are possible with most of facial pain medications, so gradual tapering is needed when a medication is to be stopped.
See Medication Treatment Options for TN chart for more specific side effects for each medication

Why does my medication give me side effects?
http://www.ncpamd.com/side_effects.htm

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