MedicationsExamples of specific agentsCommon dosage range*Prescription
Tricyclic antidepressantsAmitriptyline (Elavil)10 to 150 mg per day10 mg at bedtime; increase dosage by 10 mg every 4 to 7 days until oral burning is relieved or side effects occur
Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
BenzodiazepinsClonazepam (Klonopin)0.25 to 2 mg per day0.25 mg at bedtime; increase dosage by 0.25 mg every 4 to 7 days until oral burning is relieved or side effects occur; as dosage increases, medication is taken as full dose or in three divided doses
Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)10 to 30 mg per day5 mg at bedtime; increase dosage by 5 mg every 4 to 7 days until oral burning is relieved or side effects occur; as dosage increases, medication is taken in three divided doses
AnticonvulsantsGabapentin (Neurontin)300 to 1,600 mg per day100 mg at bedtime; increase dosage by 100 mg every 4 to 7 days until oral burning is relieved or side effects occur; as dosage increases, medication is taken in three divided doses
CapsaicinHot pepper and waterVariable (see next column)Rinse mouth with 1 teaspoon of a 1:2 dilution (or higher) of hot pepper and water; increase strength of capsaicin as tolerated to a maximum of 1:1 dilution.