Need info/opinions please

Hello all, I have been taking 600mg a day Tegretol for about 6 months and suddenly that's not enough to keep the pain away. Tried 800mg but it did not make any difference.  Apparently i can either space my tablets out to 200mg 4 times a day or i can add 75mg Lyrica but take the Tegretol down to 300mg a day. Does anyone have any experience with Lyrica/Tegretol combination or even just with Lyrica alone? I would appreciate any thoughts on this.

Hi Valkryie.  I take Lyrica as well as the Tegretol but it doesn't help at all when I'm having a TN moment! But, I do think going to the dentist and opening my mouth has 'kicked' them off, as on each occasion this has happened.

I also attend a chiropractor for something else but got into conversation about my TN. He said that many patients come to him as a final result for treatment of TN..  He has manipulated my head and neck (I did think it had come off at one point!) on three visits. He said he could feel a blockage that could be causing the TN. I am pain free, at the moment.  I tell you this as I think it might help people with TN.  Anything is worth a try if it works and it seems to be for me.  Not sure how I will cope with going to the dentist again. 

HI Valkryie  I started on Tegretol 3 years ago but unfortunately it affected my sodium level so came off of it.  Been on Lyrica (Pregabalin) for 2 years and currently on a maximum of 600mg per day (300mgx2).  Did try to reduce it due to side effects of feeling a bit dizzy and no energy but had to up it as symptoms worse.  Ive been told by nurses who have nerve pain that Lyrica is the best one to be on so Im sticking with it.  I hope you get on ok with whatever you choose.  Im about to order a Tens machine for my face so fingers crossed.  Paula

Ah, yes, i was get!ting leg cramps and tried a few things then my daughter remarked that it sounded like salt deficiency. What do you know, i went on the net and it said Tegretol affected the salt level in your body! Just started on the Lyrica last night. My doc wants to put me on half Tegretol and half Lyrica. BTW, i am interested in how you go with then TENS machine. There is also a device called a PENS which i know a little about. Please get back to me when you can.

Morning Valkyrie.  Reading all the comments from other people and this conditions is hideous.  Ive tried to get an appointment to see lady at UCL who apparently is the best person to see re TN but she doesnt do private and I havent heard a thing back.  So depressing.  Anyway, what do you know about PENS?  Some websites say not to use a TENS machine so Im looking at any alternative to surgery.  I havent ordered a TENS machine as I dont want to make my symptoms any worse.  Hope you are ok today.

only what i saw on this site. here is the link

https://patient.info/doctor/neuropathic-pain-and-its-management