Antidepressant Medication Unwanted Effects Including Body Weight, Blood Pressure Variations Range by Drug

New study provides strong evidence of the extensive spectrum of antidepressant unwanted effects.
  • A large latest investigation determined that the unwanted effects of antidepressants differ significantly by drug.
  • Some drugs resulted in weight loss, while different drugs resulted in added mass.
  • Pulse rate and BP additionally diverged notably among medications.
  • Individuals experiencing persistent, severe, or troubling side effects ought to consult a physician.

Recent investigations has revealed that antidepressant adverse reactions may be more extensive than once assumed.

The comprehensive study, issued on October 21st, assessed the effect of antidepressant medications on over 58,000 participants within the first two months of beginning treatment.

These scientists studied 151 research projects of 30 medications commonly employed to treat major depression. Although not every patient encounters side effects, several of the most prevalent recorded in the investigation were changes in weight, BP, and metabolic parameters.

Researchers observed notable disparities between depression treatments. For instance, an eight-week regimen of agomelatine was linked to an typical decrease in mass of approximately 2.4 kilos (roughly 5.3 pounds), whereas another drug users gained nearly 2 kg in the same duration.

Furthermore, significant fluctuations in cardiovascular activity: fluvoxamine was likely to reduce pulse rate, in contrast nortriptyline elevated it, causing a disparity of about 21 BPM among the two medications. BP differed as well, with an 11 mmHg difference observed across nortriptyline and another medication.

Antidepressant Medication Adverse Reactions Encompass a Broad Spectrum

Medical experts noted that the investigation's findings are not considered novel or unexpected to psychiatric specialists.

"It has long been understood that distinct antidepressant medications differ in their impacts on body weight, BP, and other metabolic indicators," one specialist commented.

"Nevertheless, what is significant about this study is the comprehensive, relative assessment of these variations among a extensive range of physical indicators using findings from over 58,000 participants," the expert added.

The study delivers strong support of the magnitude of adverse reactions, several of which are more common than others. Common depression drug side effects may encompass:

  • digestive issues (sickness, bowel issues, blockage)
  • sexual problems (reduced sex drive, orgasmic dysfunction)
  • weight changes (addition or loss, based on the drug)
  • rest issues (insomnia or drowsiness)
  • dry mouth, sweating, headache

Additionally, rarer but medically important adverse reactions may encompass:

  • increases in arterial pressure or heart rate (particularly with SNRIs and certain tricyclic antidepressants)
  • hyponatremia (notably in senior patients, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
  • liver enzyme elevations
  • Corrected QT interval lengthening (chance of abnormal heart rhythm, especially with citalopram and certain tricyclics)
  • diminished feelings or lack of interest

"A key factor to consider regarding this matter is that there are several different classes of antidepressants, which lead to the different negative medication side effects," another specialist stated.

"Furthermore, antidepressant drugs can impact each patient distinctly, and negative reactions can vary depending on the exact drug, amount, and patient considerations such as metabolism or comorbidities."

While several side effects, such as variations in rest, hunger, or stamina, are reasonably frequent and often get better as time passes, different reactions may be less common or more persistent.

Talk with Your Physician Regarding Intense Adverse Reactions

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

"An change in antidepressant medication may be warranted if the person suffers continuing or unacceptable unwanted effects that don't get better with passing days or supportive care," one specialist commented.

"Moreover, if there is an appearance of recent health problems that may be aggravated by the current medication, for instance hypertension, irregular heartbeat, or significant increased body weight."

Individuals may furthermore consider speaking with your doctor about any lack of meaningful enhancement in low mood or anxiety-related indicators following an sufficient evaluation duration. An sufficient trial period is usually 4–8 weeks' time at a effective dose.

Individual choice is also crucial. Certain people may prefer to avoid specific unwanted effects, like sexual dysfunction or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Amy Hall
Amy Hall

A passionate writer and lifestyle enthusiast with a background in digital media, sharing practical advice and personal experiences.