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        Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies >> Amitriptyline and Atenolol works for me
        
(Message started by: RuneWitch on Feb 24^th, 2006, 4:28pm)

Title: Amitriptyline and Atenolol works for me
Post by RuneWitch on Feb 24^th, 2006, 4:28pm

For 45 years I merely survived cluster headaches. Then 5 years ago, I convinced my doctor to try this combination of drugs. Neither one works for me by itself, but the combination has kept me CH-free for the past 5 years. I take 50mg of Atenolol and 100 mg of Amitriptyline before bed each night. About the only bad side-effect I have noticed is weight gain - but to finally be free of the attacks I would tolerate much more.

My headaches were atypical in that they were episodic, long-lasting (5-9 hours each) with pain levels Kip 7-10. A cluster lasted from 6 to 15 weeks and occurred 2 to 4 times a year. From age 18 until age 62, these monsters stole my life.

In 2000, there was a posting here by a lady who had been CH-free for two years by using Amitriptyline but had been taken off it by her new doctor and was thrown back into the headaches. Her sharing of this information made it possible for me to aid my doctor in finding a treatment for me that really works. I hope my sharing of information makes it possible for someone else to live CH-free.

Title: Re: Amitriptyline and Atenolol works for me
Post by LeLimey on Feb 24^th, 2006, 4:39pm

Hello rune witch it's nice to meet you!
I'm glad you have found something that works for you. As you are probably all too aware this vile condition has a habit of changing the rules so stick around and you'll be ready if ever you need another "silver bullet"
I notice you were episodic.. do you take the meds you use all year round now or only when you are in cycle?
Looking forward to getting to know you more!
Helen X

Title: Re: Amitriptyline and Atenolol works for me
Post by Karla on Feb 24^th, 2006, 4:51pm

Yes elavil(amitriptaline) has shown prommising results for a few people here. It is defitetly a medicine to try. I am so glad that you have found something that works for you! :D

Title: Re: Amitriptyline and Atenolol works for me
Post by RuneWitch on Feb 24^th, 2006, 4:51pm

I take the meds year round and am happy to do so - they've worked for me. But I do return to this site often, though I have only now registered. Thanks for the welcome.

Title: Re: Amitriptyline and Atenolol works for me
Post by ilcasastronza on Feb 24^th, 2006, 10:46pm

I tried a similar combination, atenonol and Nortriptyline. Unfortunately, the Nortriptyline gave the worst side effects that I have ever experienced, it was almost worth having the headache (I know, perish the thought). The atenonol, even on low dose, dropped my blood pressure way too far as well. I've tried amitriptyline with no success.

BTW, the side effects with Nortriptyline were quite difficult to take. They were as follows: insomnia, nightmares, ED, fatigue, confusion, anxiety, and severe dry mouth.

Title: Re: Amitriptyline and Atenolol works for me
Post by mynm156 on Feb 25^th, 2006, 8:50pm

Hey There!

Amitriptyline.......NASTY DRUG! I am glad it works for you. Let me just give you one bit of advice. Amitriptyline does not play well with very many other medications and actually has soe LEATHAL effects so ANYTIME you are given something else to take ask the pharmacy to double check your meds. The odds are that your Doctor will not know but the Drug Store will be able to tell you.

Good Vibes and PF days ahead for us all!

Your Brother in Pain

MYNM156