Neurontin and Elavil

[Kaye]

I know there are a lot of folks here that have had experience with Neurontin and Elavil.  My ortho wants to start me on them due to the fact that almost 3 years post surgery, I am still having breakthrough pain that is getting worse.  Physical exams and scans are clean.  What can I look forward to with these drugs?

[Cathy]

Kaye,

Especially with Elavil - sedation in the beginning.  But, if you take them at night you will sleep very well.  Neurontin you can expect some sedation also, but not near as much as the Elavil.  I remember being put on Elavil years ago and I felt super great for the first time in years.  I slept like I never slept before.  One other little problem, weight gain and constipation.  Check with your doctor about these problems.  I would caution you to not drive until you are sure how you are going to react to them.  I'm someone who can take double the dosage of sedating meds and not get sleepy, so I would be prepared.  Good luck with them.

Always,
Cathy

[Kaye]

Well, I started them last night.  The dosage he has me on for the Neurontin is 300mg, to me it sounds like it would knock out a horse.  I'm like you tho, it takes alot for me to notice a sedating effect.  I really haven't noticed anything yet, I guess it's a matter of time for it to kick in?

[Tara]

I don't know how long it takes most... My neuro prescribed 300 mg of Neurontin 3xs a day about a year ago.  He told me to take the first dose when I didn't have to drive or anything so I would know how it would effect me.  Within an hour, I was laid out on the couch - couldn't open my eyes, but didn't go to sleep either.  That part wore off about an hour later, but I always felt drugged on it.  I now take 100 mg of Lyrica every night.  It works like a charm on the pain and don't have any ill effects from it.  I wish the cost was better... I don't take Elavil, so i can't help you there.  I take zoloft - it doesn't seem to have any effect (except a side effect of saneness or calmness.... )  My SIL took it and had to get off of it b/c it made her sleep so much.  I guess different meds effect us all different ways.  The most important thing is that it helps you and you are pain free!