The amitriptyline will make you very sleepy for first 2 weeks and make also constipate you. Take it before bed. How much are you taking?

I am only using 10mg a night. I was on another a decade ago, called doxepin for sciatica. It is a TCA too. It wasn't so sedating, but it also does not have the peripheral effects attributed to amitriptyline either.

This is pretty sedating, I agree. But my shingles arm is not hurting like it was every night, and I can sleep at least.

My shingles arm has been pretty bad since this spring. The doctor on Weds thought it might help me sleep and it is doing that more than expected. LOL

Hello:

This is my first 'response' post...

Just want to say how beautiful MrsD's flowers are, whether indoors or out!

Also want to give thanks for some really good info in this thread regarding pain, pleasure and the balance of the two!

Before I had pain issues, I did take comfort in food. Even WITH the pain issues, I feel I tend to use food innappropriately which is probably a huge no-no! I suppose I've always rationalized in my mind that the food is/was ok since I've never had any other vices (smoking/alcohol etc).

As DonS so insightfully added, it's best to choose from a 'variety' of sources of pleasure - I'm going to ponder that for a while as I try to beat these symptoms.

Take Care,

JB

Dark chocolate is indeed good for you. I included it into my weight loss issue. You can have it, even every day, just not so much. I used it as a reward for eating right during the day, and only if I kept to the good foods. No soda, or soft drinks was one I gave up altogether. Little things at first do the most. I never thought I could do it eithor until I gave my heart to the issue. I do believe anybody can do it if I could. My very best to you in this healthy endeavor. Have a peaceful and healthy holiday. ginnie