Antidepressants in chronic pain syndromes.

Antidepressants are often effective in the management of chronic pain syndromes. They are most useful for certain types of pain complaints, such as headache, diabetic neuropathy, arthritis and facial pain. The choice of antidepressant depends on the side effects and the patient's ability to tolerate the medication. The dose is usually half of that used in the management of depression.