Antidepressants in Pain Control

Medication that is typically used in the treatment of mood disorders (antidepressants) can also be used in the treatment of some types of pain. Below is some information on the use of antidepressant medication in pain management.

What are antidepressants?

Antidepressants are a group of medications used in the treatment of long-standing depressive illnesses, however they can also be used for treatment of pain. They are typically useful in the treatment of certain types of pain, such as headaches, facial pain and nerve pain. They can also relieve the effects of sleeping difficulties, lowered mood, loss of energy and interest in life, that are typically associated with living with chronic pain.

How and when do you take the medication?

Your prescribing doctor should discuss this with you. Because the antidepressant medication can make you sleepy, it is typically taken at night but sometimes your doctor will prescribe a dose during the day. If the sleepiness is noticeable during the day, discuss this with your treating doctor.

What are the expected side effects?

As with any medication, there are some side effects with antidepressant medication. these include:

Sleepiness - Many people experience sleepiness, particularly in the first few days. If it does not settle, the dose or medication may have to be altered. Caution must be taken with regard to driving a motor vehicle, and operating machinery or power tools, especially if you are drowsy.
Dryness of the mouth - this is usually more common early on in treatment and can often be relieved by sips of water throughout the day.
Constipation - Your doctor may advise you to take a mild laxative.

Lightheadedness - This is most noticable when you stand up from a chair or from lying down. It is important to be aware of this and take care when standing up.

Blurred vision - Some people find that they initially have some difficulty focussing on small print while reading. If you wear glasses do not change your prescription as this normally goes away with continued medication use or cessation of therapy.

Weight gain - Some people find that when taking antidepressants they have an increased appetite or crave sweet foods. This can lead to an increase in weight.

Difficulty passing urine - This is not a common side effect. It is usually only seen in elderly people on antidepressants.

While many of these side effects are commonly encountered none of them is dangerous. It is important to remain under your doctors supervision while on antidepressant medication and discuss any of these or other side effects with them.

How long does the treatment continue?

This is an individual matter and it is best to discuss this with your treating doctor. It is important that you do not stop taking your medication with out first discussing this with your doctor. It is best to taper the dose of your medication gradually, rather than suddenly stopping it. Your doctor will give you advice as how best to do this.

Is this medication affected by other medicines?

It is important to discuss other medications that you may be taking with your doctor when they prescribe antidepressants. This includes all herbal remadies. Sometimes other medications and preparations can be affected by antidepressant medications and may cause other health concerns. It is important to let your doctor know of any other medications or preparations that you are taking prior to commencement of treatment.

It is important that these medications are kept in a safe place where children can not reach them.

It is best to avoid all medications during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. Discuss this with your doctor if you are planning on becoming pregnant or if you are currently pregnant.