TMJ and anti-depressants: a link? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

SRH_NF · 05-20-2003, 09:25 AM

Hey, board:

I read somewhere (perhaps on this board) that anti-depressants may have a helping hand in causing TMJ. I am wondering how this is the case. Does anyone know the link between the two?

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Sheldon

PINKYPRISCILLA · 05-20-2003, 10:44 AM

I don't know that they cause tmj but they can
help tmj by their relaxing effect.

hbep · 05-20-2003, 11:41 AM

Hello,

The side effect of some anti depressants is bruxism (teeth grinding) or clenching - that's how anti depressants can play a part. Old style try cyclic anti depressants are used to treat tmj also - works on pain receptors in the brain and relaxes muscles. I am on one, nortryptiline, seems to be helping some of my symptoms but ever since taking it have been terribly dizzy. Sigh. Still waiting to talk to the specialist to find out if the anti dep is causing the dizzines.

CherylLynn24 · 05-20-2003, 06:38 PM

Hi There,

SSRI's can cause bruxism. By the way, hbep, Pamelor (nortriptyline) does cause dizziness. It's a common side effect.
Cheryl

donnalynne1966 · 05-20-2003, 07:52 PM

Hello,
I have been on PaxilCR now for approx. 2 months and can not stop clenching my teeth! I never thought to ask if it was a common side effect????

Quote:

Originally posted by SRH_NF:
Hey, board:

I read somewhere (perhaps on this board) that anti-depressants may have a helping hand in causing TMJ. I am wondering how this is the case. Does anyone know the link between the two?