Ways To Treat Postherpetic Neuralgia

Antidepressant Medication

Research has found antidepressant medications can also be used to relieve chronic pain conditions like postherpetic neuralgia, even when depression isn’t also present. Although the mechanism isn’t well understood, scientists believe antidepressants increase the neurotransmitter chemicals that reduce the sensation of pain. Several different types of antidepressant medications appear to help with postherpetic neuralgia, including tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). However, these medications do not reduce pain immediately, and the effects must accumulate over weeks. Some of the medications have side effects individuals may not tolerate well. However, changing to a different medication in the same category can improve tolerance.

Get the details on the next way to treat postherpetic neuralgia now.

Anticonvulsant Medication

The same medications used to control seizures have been found to have a beneficial effect in reducing certain types of pain, including postherpetic neuralgia. Science does not provide a complete explanation of why anticonvulsants work, but evidence suggests the medications interfere with the overactive pain signals from damaged nerves. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, double vision, drowsiness and trouble with coordination, and some individuals experience swelling in the feet and legs. New types of anticonvulsant medications cause fewer side effects than the older types and are better tolerated. Doctors will monitor patients carefully for side effects from these medications.

Reveal more information on how to treat postherpetic neuralgia now.