Trigeminal neuralgia refers to condition in which the nerves along the face become swollen and inflammed. MedlinePlus says that symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia include sharp and electric-like pain on one portion of the face. Sometimes, this pain can effect the cheek, lower face or eyes. In some instances, this pain can be more pronounced when chewing, drinking, brushing the teeth or shaving. Medications for trigeminal neuralgia exist.
Gabapentin
Gabapentin, commonly sold as Gabarone or Neurontin, is an anticonvulsant medication that can treat trigeminal neuralgia symptoms. This drug also treats epileptic seizures in children and adults. Drugs.com says that gabapentin's less severe side effects include blurry vision, nausea, vomiting, a skin rash, acne, a lack of coordination and fatigue. Some of gabapentin's serious side effects include a fever, chills, easy bruising and swelling of the feet or hands. In some instances, gabapentin leads to memory problems and difficulty concentrating. A reduction in gabapentin's dose may be necessary when suffering from such diseases as heart, kidney or liver disease. Gabapentin is a tablet or liquid taken daily or as prescribed.
Sumatriptan
Sumatriptan, commonly sold as Imitrex, is a selective serotonin receptor agonist that also reduces the pain and frequency of trigeminal neuralgia. This medication also treats migraines. MedlinePlus says that sumatriptan's less concerning side effects include drowsiness, vomiting, muscle cramps, flushing and pain or redness at the injection site. Its serious side effects include trouble breathing, chest pain, visual changes, a fast heartbeat and redness, itching and swelling of the face, eyelids or lips. Taking medications such as sertraline, duloxetine and venlafaxine may require a decrease in sumatriptan's dose. Sumatriptan is an injection given daily or as prescribed.
Amitriptyline
Amitriptyline, commonly sold as Elavil, Vanatrap or Endep, is a tricyclic antidepressant that also decreases trigeminal neuralgia pain. This medication also treats depression. Drugs.com says that amitriptyline's less concerning side effects include difficulty concentrating, blurry vision, a headache, a dry mouth and a poor appetite. In some instances, amitriptyline may cause drowsiness, fatigue and difficulty having an orgasm. Amitriptyline's serious side effects include hallucinations, seizures, easy bleeding or bruising, a headache and a fast or pounding heartbeat. Phone a doctor when amitriptyline leads to these effects. Having heart disease, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or glaucoma may require a change in amitriptyline's dose. This medication is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
