In part II of this article, the therapeutic value of antidepressants in chronic pain is systematically and critically discussed. First, a review is given of the clinical studies in this field. Secondly, some controversial topics (indications, products, time of latency, mono- or combination-therapy and side-effects) are mentioned. Then, the hypotheses concerning the mechanisms of action are discussed, and some critical remarks are given on the research. Before practical conclusions are formulated, the importance of some psychotherapeutic aspects is emphasized.