Antidepressant Adverse Reactions Such as Body Weight, BP Variations Vary Depending on Medication

Latest research delivers comprehensive proof of the wide array of antidepressant side effects.
  • An large latest investigation found that the adverse reactions of antidepressant medications vary substantially by drug.
  • Some drugs resulted in decreased mass, while others caused increased body weight.
  • Cardiac rhythm and arterial pressure furthermore varied markedly across treatments.
  • Individuals experiencing ongoing, intense, or troubling unwanted effects must speak with a healthcare professional.

New investigations has revealed that antidepressant adverse reactions may be more extensive than earlier believed.

This extensive study, published on October 21st, examined the impact of antidepressant medications on more than 58,000 individuals within the initial two months of starting medication.

The investigators examined 151 research projects of 30 drugs typically used to treat clinical depression. Although not every patient experiences side effects, some of the most frequent recorded in the research were fluctuations in weight, arterial pressure, and metabolic markers.

There were significant differences between antidepressant drugs. As an illustration, an eight-week course of one medication was linked to an average reduction in body weight of around 2.4 kilograms (about 5.3 pounds), while maprotiline users increased almost 2 kg in the equivalent period.

Additionally, notable fluctuations in heart function: one antidepressant tended to decrease pulse rate, while another medication raised it, creating a gap of around 21 beats per minute among the both treatments. Blood pressure fluctuated also, with an 11 mmHg variation observed among nortriptyline and doxepin.

Antidepressant Side Effects Include a Extensive Range

Healthcare experts observed that the study's results aren't new or surprising to psychiatric specialists.

"We've long known that distinct depression drugs differ in their influences on body weight, arterial pressure, and additional metabolic parameters," a expert stated.

"Nonetheless, what is notable about this investigation is the thorough, comparative measurement of these disparities across a wide array of physical indicators utilizing findings from in excess of 58,000 participants," this expert added.

This study provides robust proof of the magnitude of adverse reactions, some of which are more prevalent than other effects. Frequent antidepressant medication side effects may comprise:

  • stomach problems (sickness, diarrhea, constipation)
  • sexual problems (lowered desire, anorgasmia)
  • body weight fluctuations (addition or reduction, according to the medication)
  • sleep problems (sleeplessness or drowsiness)
  • dry mouth, sweating, migraine

At the same time, rarer but medically important unwanted effects may encompass:

  • rises in blood pressure or cardiac rhythm (notably with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and some tricyclics)
  • hyponatremia (particularly in older adults, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
  • increased liver enzymes
  • QTc prolongation (risk of abnormal heart rhythm, notably with one medication and some tricyclic antidepressants)
  • diminished feelings or indifference

"An important point to remember here is that there are various different types of depression drugs, which result in the distinct adverse medication side effects," another expert explained.

"Moreover, antidepressant medications can influence each person differently, and negative reactions can range according to the particular drug, dose, and individual considerations including metabolism or co-occurring conditions."

While certain side effects, like changes in rest, appetite, or energy levels, are fairly common and frequently get better with time, other effects may be less typical or more persistent.

Speak with Your Physician About Severe Side Effects

Antidepressant medication adverse reactions may vary in seriousness, which could warrant a modification in your treatment.

"An change in depression drug may be warranted if the person experiences continuing or unacceptable side effects that fail to enhance with time or supportive measures," a professional commented.

"Furthermore, if there is an appearance of new health problems that may be exacerbated by the existing drug, for example high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or significant increased body weight."

Individuals may also contemplate speaking with your doctor regarding any deficiency of significant improvement in low mood or anxiety-related indicators following an adequate trial period. The sufficient testing period is typically 4–8 weeks' time at a treatment dosage.

Personal inclination is additionally significant. Some people may prefer to evade certain side effects, like sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Vernon Khan
Vernon Khan

A passionate writer and creativity coach with over a decade of experience in helping individuals unlock their artistic and innovative abilities.