Depression Drug Unwanted Effects Including Weight, Blood Pressure Changes Range Depending on Medication

Recent study delivers comprehensive proof of the wide range of antidepressant side effects.
  • An extensive latest research found that the unwanted effects of antidepressant medications vary significantly by drug.
  • Some medications led to decreased mass, while other medications resulted in added mass.
  • Cardiac rhythm and BP additionally diverged notably across drugs.
  • Patients suffering from continuing, intense, or worrisome unwanted effects should consult a physician.

Latest studies has revealed that antidepressant unwanted effects may be more diverse than once assumed.

The large-scale research, published on October 21, examined the influence of depression treatments on in excess of 58,000 individuals within the first 60 days of starting medication.

The investigators analyzed 151 research projects of 30 pharmaceuticals commonly prescribed to manage depression. Although not all individuals experiences adverse reactions, certain of the most common noted in the investigation were fluctuations in weight, BP, and metabolic indicators.

The study revealed notable disparities among antidepressant medications. For instance, an two-month treatment period of agomelatine was associated with an average reduction in body weight of about 2.4 kilograms (about 5.3 pounds), while maprotiline users increased almost 2 kg in the equivalent duration.

There were also, notable variations in cardiac function: fluvoxamine often would slow pulse rate, in contrast nortriptyline increased it, causing a difference of approximately 21 beats per minute among the two drugs. BP fluctuated as well, with an 11 millimeters of mercury difference observed between one drug and another medication.

Depression Drug Adverse Reactions Encompass a Wide Range

Medical professionals commented that the study's findings aren't new or unexpected to mental health professionals.

"It has long been understood that various antidepressant medications range in their influences on body weight, blood pressure, and further metabolic indicators," one specialist commented.

"Nevertheless, what is remarkable about this investigation is the rigorous, comparative quantification of these differences among a broad spectrum of physiological parameters using data from over 58,000 participants," the professional added.

This investigation provides comprehensive evidence of the extent of adverse reactions, some of which are more prevalent than other effects. Typical antidepressant unwanted effects may include:

  • digestive issues (nausea, diarrhea, blockage)
  • sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, orgasmic dysfunction)
  • weight changes (addition or decrease, based on the agent)
  • sleep disturbances (sleeplessness or drowsiness)
  • dry mouth, perspiration, headache

At the same time, less frequent but therapeutically relevant side effects may comprise:

  • increases in blood pressure or cardiac rhythm (particularly with SNRIs and certain tricyclic antidepressants)
  • hyponatremia (particularly in older adults, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
  • increased liver enzymes
  • Corrected QT interval prolongation (potential of irregular heartbeat, especially with one medication and certain tricyclics)
  • reduced emotions or indifference

"An important point to remember here is that there are various distinct types of antidepressants, which contribute to the different adverse medication side effects," a different professional stated.

"Moreover, antidepressant medications can impact each patient differently, and unwanted side effects can vary depending on the specific drug, dosage, and personal considerations like metabolic rate or co-occurring conditions."

Although some side effects, like fluctuations in sleep, appetite, or vitality, are fairly typical and commonly get better as time passes, others may be less frequent or continuing.

Consult with Your Doctor Regarding Severe Adverse Reactions

Antidepressant adverse reactions may range in seriousness, which could justify a modification in your medication.

"An modification in antidepressant may be necessary if the person suffers ongoing or intolerable side effects that do not improve with duration or supportive measures," a expert commented.

"Moreover, if there is an development of recently developed medical conditions that may be exacerbated by the existing medication, for example hypertension, irregular heartbeat, or substantial weight gain."

You may also consider talking with your doctor about any absence of substantial enhancement in low mood or worry signs following an appropriate trial period. An sufficient evaluation duration is usually 4–8 weeks duration at a effective amount.

Individual preference is additionally important. Certain patients may prefer to prevent particular side effects, like sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Megan Caldwell
Megan Caldwell

A passionate horticulturist with over 15 years of experience in organic gardening and landscape design.