The project is evaluating the analgesic efficacy of amitriptyline at two doses in comparison to placebo for the mamagement of chronic orofacial pain; to determine an optimal dose to be used; and to determine the mechanism of action of antidepressants in pain management. A double-blind incomplete cross-over design of drug administration is used and each subject is administered in two four-week periods, separated by a two week washout, one of the following: placebo, high dose amitriptyline, or low dose amitriptyline. Both high dose (up to 150 mg) and low dose (10-30 mg) of amitriptyline result in significant pain relief in comparison to placebo. Amitriptyline reduced depression scores in the depressed patients but not in non-depressed patients, providing evidence that its analgesic effect is not associated with a parallel change in mood.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01DE000378-03
Application #
3963733
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1986
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Dental & Craniofacial Research
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code