Hi there, I'm 45 yrs young. I was diagnosed with TN in March of this year. It started a month after I was rear ended. Apparently this is what caused the neuralgia.
I have been on several meds, but the Gabapentin helps the most with the least amount of side affects. Don't get me wrong, I'm still a zombie on them, but not as bad as the Tegretol.
I just returned to work in the last 3 weeks & have already missed 2 shifts. I think the problem is, I'm trying to wean myself off the Gabapentin, because I can't take it & drive/work, & then neuralgia then rears it's ugly head.
I'm scheduled to attend a pain clinic on Nov.8th, but just don't understand how that's gonna help.
I find that I'm starting to get depressed, I guess the change of seasons isn't helping that. Now this sounds bad, but I also find that the only time I feel better is after a few wobbly pops (beer). I know that alcohol is a depressant, but at the time I feel better. Does anyone else feel this way???
I can't wait to talk to someone who gets it. I tried to explain it to my supervisor & she actually had the nerve to say that I should leave my emotions out of it & she has never heard of Gabapentin affecting anyone in that way. So in other words, I'm a lier. That's how I took it. Our unit pharmacist said that she didn't know what she was talking about & she's a nurse...

Hi Jiggered and welcome to NeuroTalk. Here is the link to our TN Forum..

http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum26.html

I'm glad you've joined us but sorry for the reason.

Hi Jiggered ~ I have peripheral neuropathy, and I find that TOPAMAX works much better than what you're taking. It's the exact same type of medication but it doesn't have the side effects. You don't retain water, you don't get loopy, and most people lose weight on it. I've been on it for about 9 years, and it works GREAT for me. All the burning/stinging/zapping/etc. is gone!

Yes I can see how a beer would help. You'd have to be a patient with this kind of trouble in order to "get it." lol Your supervisor is an *** ~ pardon. I can't stand "holier than thou" people. Keep your emotions out of it???? Is she kidding or something??? Sheesh.

I hope pain management helps you ~ they DO help alot of folks. Mention Topamax, cause it's really a great medication.

Take care and I hope & pray you get relief from your pain. God bless. Hugs, Lee

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Happy to see you have come to be with us. Just let us know if we can be of any help.

There are great number of fellow members here to assist as possible. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around.

Darlene

Jiggered...Welcome to Neuro Talk...no you not going crazy...

I can't take Gabapentin for the same reason...makes me feel...well...fuzzy. I also develop a stutter...go figure...?

Alffe gave you a great link that might help...take care!!