Has anyone had PCS, associated migraine diagnosis and amytryptaline ‘scrip?

[Angostura]

Hi there, 9 months in neurologist says car accident caused PCS migrainous symptoms And recommends amitriptyline. I’m very reluctant, know it can often have Unpleasant side-effects including weight gain and anxiety. But I am having to lead a hermit like existence which is doing my head in! Also being treated by neuropsychologists and physio for complex PTSD. Any advice very welcome! X

[cat3]

I took Amitriptyline for 20years for depression. For the first few weeks I felt a slight change of consciousness and some fatigue but nothing unpleasant or worrying, then as my system assimilated the drug I found great relief. I had no weight gain in all that time 'til the dose was increased from 25ml to 75mg (when my mum died) but then my GP wanted me to switch to the new SSRI antidepressants anyway, as they were considered a more effective antidepressant.

But I didn't have side effects all those years apart from constipation which seems common with all antidepressants and can easily be remedied with herbal supplements. I think the Amitriptyline dosage for nerve pain is quite low ; my sister-in-law takes them for the pain of shingles but on the lowest dose.

I hope you find them ok m'dear. You can always stop them if you're not happy ; there's a definite adjustment period of 3 -4 weeks before the benefits kick in, but worth the wait. x

[1949liz]

Hi 👋I am taking Amitriptyline for shingles as I took them for the pain in my face and also the area of my head injury, they did NOT cause me weight gain but DID and DOES help with my pain. Please give them a try and as Cat has said they do take a few weeks to work. Love Liz x🙏🌹

[Pairofboots]

As a retired RNMH, I was worried about the medication that was being proposed for me. I had despenced these meds and knew that the side effects could be not so good.

Amitriptyline is prescribed for many neurological conditions. The dose is titrated up to an an effective level, they will only aim to give you the lowest dose.

Side effects can be initially a problem, but the body does get used to the medication. If not adjuncts can be added to help.

Weight gain is a common side effect, but hopefully if the therapy works, you will become more active, therefore counter any gain. Most weight gain is mainly due to inactivity.

Hope this helps.

[Angostura]

Dear PairofBoots,

Many thanks for your reply, that is most interesting, particularly the bit about weight gain which does appear to be the case. However I am pleased to say that crossed fingers the amitriptyline is helping control the PCS symptoms and the side effects are few and manageable. This is a great relief and well worth the chubb!

Thank you again!