Typically prescribed to control seizures, anticonvulsants also work to relieve chronic pain. According to research, the medication blocks pain signals sent from the central nervous system (CNS). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the majority of anticonvulsant medications and has found that they are effective in treating:
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Migraine headaches
- Central Pain Syndromes i.e. post stroke pain, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries
Some side effects may occur from taking these medications including fatigue, rash, headache, nausea, seizures, drowsiness, and liver dysfunction. To reduce the risk of developing any of these side effects it is important to take the medications as prescribed by your American Spine physician.
Anticonvulsants are not a safe treatment for everyone. Talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently taking and preexisting medical conditions to avoid any complications.