Occasionally, side effects must be tolerated if no other options exist. Antidepressants work by increasing the amount of either serotonin or norepinephrine at the neuronal connections called synapses. In addition to depression, this effect may be useful in vascular headache management, chronic pain syndromes, sleep disorders, and balance problems. Some degree of depressed mood is expected after a brain injury because of the reaction to the changes experienced. When these mood changes are severe or include early morning awakening, appetite change, weight loss or gain, and other neurovegetative symptoms, antidepressants may be indicated .
Anticonvulsants act to decrease the irritability of the neuron.
In the most extreme situation, a seizure occurs. This irritability can also cause agitation, aggressiveness, and headache. The use of an anticonvulsant may help. Before stopping your medications, you should always inform your physician. If you develop a serious side effect, contact your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room.