I was a member of this community years ago (for another condition) and posted about my great success with topical capsaicin for TN after Neurontin and Tegretol ultimately failed me or caused very unpleasant side effects.

I have used capsaicin (Zostrix HP in my case) for several years and have complete control of my TN symptoms. I now need to apply it only a couple of times a year. I do not know whether that is because the TN is simply quieter or the nerve is less able to transmit pain.

Everything you need to know can be googled. One useful source of info is the facial neuralgia org -- they have a page on capsaicin but I haven't been back her long enough to post the link.

TN is dreadful! Best of luck to everyone!

I am very happy that you found relief.
My dentist told me to apply this external medication inside my mouth.
I was so sick from this and stopped after 10 days and a call to the poison center.
My pain started after dental treatment and confined to just one tooth. It has now taken over half my face.

Please advise where you are applying this medication?
How many times a day and for how long?
Any info will be of help.
Thank you

I also use Capsaicin. I rub it on my face daily. I was told this is something you need to do all the time for it to be effective. It doesn't help the classis TN pain - lighting bolts....but it does help the lesser atypical sensations.
Best of luck, Nikki