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Trigeminal Neuralgia

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Preston, UK

Morning all,

I have recently been diagnosed with Trigiminal Neuralgia, I was experiencing pain in my jaw, teeth, ear, temple, scalp and had shooting pains in my head.

I was originally prescribed Carbamazapine with no effect, has anyone else had this ? And if so what kind of medication did you find helpful?

Xx

August 17
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Reactions
A MyMSTeam Member

The worst pain ever. Sending you a big hug. I have TG as well. It took some time for my Oxcarbazepine to work. I started out with a low dose, i think 200mgs in the am and 200mgs in the pm. I finally reached an amount that worked, 600mgs in the am and 600mgs in the pm. A total of 1200mgs a day. Pain free for 6 months now.
I wish you well.

August 18
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member , I’ve had that kind of pain too and I completely understand you as many others on here do too 💕
I take Tylenol for the pain 2 500mg pills then an hr later 1 800mg Ibuprofen and it helps but knocks you out so I try not to take the Ibuprofen . I also use toothpaste for sensitive teeth because I also have very sensitive teeth, in conjunction with all that I also do warm compresses where I feel pain or even ankle, knee, hand braces and such . Oh also Epsom salts soaks .
We’re here for you and you definitely have a friend here 💕

August 18
MyMSTeam

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) can be a really painful part of living with MS, but there are several medication options that may help. Working closely with a neurologist is key to finding the right fit, especially since some treatments can interact with MS medications.

Here's a summary of the main medication options:

Show Full Answer

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) can be a really painful part of living with MS, but there are several medication options that may help. Working closely with a neurologist is key to finding the right fit, especially since some treatments can interact with MS medications.

Here's a summary of the main medication options:

Anticonvulsants (most commonly prescribed):
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
- Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)
- Gabapentin (Neurontin)
- Pregabalin (Lyrica)
- Lamotrigine (Lamictal)

Muscle Relaxants (sometimes added to boost effectiveness):
- Baclofen (Lioresal)

Topical Options:
- Voltaren gel (diclofenac) — one MyMSTeam member shared applying it along their cheekbone provided some relief

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may offer mild relief, but TN usually requires something stronger. It's worth knowing that anticonvulsants, while effective for many, aren't always well-tolerated by people with MS. They can cause drowsiness and affect movement, which may impact quality of life.

If medications aren't working well enough, surgical options also exist — but that's a conversation to have with a neurologist when the time comes.

August 17
A MyMSTeam Member

I take rivotril tabs. But lately not helping much plus. Pain meds

It is. Painful hard to treat
Ihope you get on top of this please let me know

August 18
A MyMSTeam Member

Trigeminal neuralgia is so painful! The medication can take some time to work, but if it continues to not have much effect for you speak to your neurologist ur MS nurse. Mine increased gabapentin for me, although that didn’t provide much relief. Hope yours improves soon, take care 💜

August 17

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