I took Gabapentin and experienced medicine induced depression. I couldn't understand what was going on at first. I was down with nothing that I could pinpoint that I was down about. I had a tremendous amount of hope that I would be delivered from TN even when I had it. God gave me this faith this knowing that was unwavering. The medicine was relentless with how it affect my disposition. I finally came off it and the depression/oppression went away in a few days. I switch to Lyrica and I have had no problems. Of course Lyrica is name brand . . . but I had no choice.

I would not taper off without consulting a Neurologist. What about Carbatrol? So much better for the typical (tazer) pian then anything in my opinion. I bet that would help so much! It took out the typical TN pain I was feeling in 2 days. Unfortunately for me the TN kept jumping over the dose I was on.

Your Neurologist will work with you to find the right combo. I would exhaust every possible drug combination before you consider surgery.

I had a MVD after 10 months of TN but I failed medical treatment according to my Neurologist. My body could not after awhile handle the Carbatrol.

Surgery is not without risk. I am free from TN but the Neurosurgeon inadvertently damaged the nerve and I am still dealing with the fall out of that. I know many have had a great experience. Although being completely free from TN and dealing with what I have is workable. Although I couldn't talk for the first 5 months after surgery. Thank God I am a stay at home mom. I also had my mother-in-law out for 2 weeks after the surgery and she stayed 7 weeks. I really needed her for 8. We wouldn't have made it without her help due to the damaged nerve pain and horrible side effects from Baclofen.

Let us know what you decide.

My best to you!
Kimberly