Hi Scoopy,
I have used capsaicin creme topically when I run out of other options. I just put a dab on the pad of one of those little round bandaids, and stick that directly over the spots where the nerves come through the skull. It has definitely worked on the pain, or confused my nerves enough to where the pain is not so bad.
I take nortriptyline, it is the first cousin of amiltriptyline, and it was the first thing that helped with my TN before I went on to the anti-seizure meds and the opiates. I still take it.
I hope that this info helps.
Lily