Depression Drug Side Effects Such as Weight, BP Fluctuations Range by Drug

Latest investigation delivers comprehensive findings of the broad array of antidepressant side effects.
  • An comprehensive recent research determined that the side effects of depression drugs differ substantially by drug.
  • Some pharmaceuticals resulted in decreased mass, whereas other medications resulted in weight gain.
  • Heart rate and arterial pressure also differed notably between medications.
  • Those encountering continuing, serious, or troubling unwanted effects ought to consult a healthcare professional.

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

The large-scale study, released on October 21st, examined the impact of depression treatments on more than 58,000 subjects within the initial eight weeks of commencing treatment.

The investigators analyzed 151 research projects of 30 pharmaceuticals typically prescribed to treat clinical depression. While not every patient encounters unwanted effects, several of the most prevalent observed in the research were changes in weight, BP, and metabolic parameters.

There were significant variations among depression treatments. For instance, an two-month regimen of one medication was linked to an average decrease in mass of around 2.4 kilos (about 5.3 pounds), while another drug individuals increased nearly 2 kg in the equivalent timeframe.

There were also, significant variations in heart function: one antidepressant was likely to decrease pulse rate, whereas nortriptyline increased it, causing a disparity of approximately 21 beats per minute across the two drugs. Blood pressure varied also, with an 11 millimeters of mercury difference noted between nortriptyline and another medication.

Antidepressant Unwanted Effects Encompass a Broad Array

Clinical specialists observed that the research's findings aren't novel or startling to mental health professionals.

"Clinicians have long recognized that various antidepressant medications vary in their effects on body weight, BP, and additional metabolic parameters," a expert stated.

"Nevertheless, what is notable about this study is the comprehensive, comparative assessment of these variations across a broad array of bodily measurements utilizing information from over 58,000 subjects," the professional added.

The investigation provides comprehensive support of the extent of side effects, some of which are more prevalent than others. Common depression drug side effects may comprise:

  • gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea, blockage)
  • intimacy issues (decreased libido, inability to orgasm)
  • weight changes (addition or loss, based on the agent)
  • sleep disturbances (insomnia or sleepiness)
  • oral dehydration, perspiration, head pain

At the same time, less frequent but medically important adverse reactions may encompass:

  • increases in blood pressure or heart rate (particularly with SNRIs and certain tricyclics)
  • low sodium (especially in elderly individuals, with SSRIs and SNRIs)
  • liver enzyme elevations
  • QTc prolongation (risk of arrhythmia, particularly with one medication and certain tricyclics)
  • reduced emotions or apathy

"A key factor to remember here is that there are various varying categories of antidepressant medications, which contribute to the varying unwanted medication effects," a different specialist explained.

"Moreover, antidepressant medications can affect every individual variably, and negative side effects can differ depending on the specific pharmaceutical, dose, and patient elements such as body chemistry or simultaneous health issues."

Although some adverse reactions, such as variations in sleep, appetite, or vitality, are quite typical and often improve as time passes, different reactions may be less common or more persistent.

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider About Intense Unwanted Effects

Antidepressant side effects may differ in severity, which could warrant a modification in your medication.

"A adjustment in depression drug may be warranted if the person experiences continuing or intolerable unwanted effects that fail to enhance with passing days or supportive measures," a expert said.

"Moreover, if there is an emergence of new health problems that may be worsened by the current treatment, such as hypertension, abnormal heart rhythm, or substantial weight gain."

Individuals may furthermore think about talking with your doctor regarding any deficiency of substantial enhancement in depressive or anxiety indicators subsequent to an adequate evaluation duration. The adequate evaluation duration is usually 4–8 weeks' time at a treatment dosage.

Individual inclination is also significant. Certain patients may choose to prevent particular unwanted effects, including sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Jeffrey Harris Jr.
Jeffrey Harris Jr.

A passionate interior designer with over a decade of experience, specializing in sustainable home transformations and creative DIY solutions.