Depression Drug Side Effects Like Weight, Blood Pressure Changes Vary by Drug
- An large latest research determined that the side effects of antidepressant medications differ substantially by drug.
- Some pharmaceuticals led to reduced body weight, whereas other medications caused increased body weight.
- Cardiac rhythm and BP also varied notably among treatments.
- Individuals experiencing persistent, serious, or concerning unwanted effects should consult a physician.
New investigations has found that antidepressant side effects may be more extensive than previously thought.
This large-scale study, released on October 21, examined the effect of depression treatments on in excess of 58,000 participants within the initial 60 days of commencing therapy.
These investigators studied 151 studies of 30 medications typically employed to address depression. While not everyone experiences unwanted effects, some of the most prevalent recorded in the investigation were changes in weight, BP, and metabolic indicators.
There were striking differences across antidepressant drugs. As an illustration, an 60-day treatment period of one medication was linked to an typical reduction in body weight of around 2.4 kilograms (about 5.3 pounds), whereas another drug users gained almost 2 kg in the same timeframe.
Furthermore, marked changes in heart function: one antidepressant tended to reduce pulse rate, whereas nortriptyline raised it, creating a gap of around 21 beats per minute across the both treatments. BP differed too, with an 11 mmHg disparity observed between one drug and doxepin.
Antidepressant Medication Unwanted Effects Comprise a Broad Array
Medical professionals noted that the research's findings are not considered recent or startling to psychiatric specialists.
"Clinicians have long recognized that distinct depression drugs range in their effects on body weight, blood pressure, and other metabolic parameters," one expert explained.
"Nonetheless, what is notable about this study is the comprehensive, comparative assessment of these differences among a wide range of physical indicators utilizing findings from over 58,000 participants," the professional added.
The investigation delivers strong evidence of the extent of adverse reactions, certain of which are more prevalent than other effects. Frequent antidepressant side effects may encompass:
- digestive issues (queasiness, loose stools, constipation)
- sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, anorgasmia)
- weight changes (addition or reduction, depending on the drug)
- sleep disturbances (insomnia or sedation)
- oral dehydration, sweating, migraine
Meanwhile, less common but therapeutically relevant side effects may include:
- increases in BP or pulse rate (particularly with SNRIs and certain tricyclics)
- low sodium (notably in elderly individuals, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
- elevated hepatic parameters
- Corrected QT interval prolongation (risk of irregular heartbeat, notably with one medication and some tricyclics)
- diminished feelings or lack of interest
"One thing to remember here is that there are several distinct classes of depression drugs, which lead to the varying unwanted medication side effects," a different professional explained.
"Additionally, depression treatments can influence every individual differently, and unwanted side effects can vary based on the specific drug, amount, and patient elements such as body chemistry or co-occurring conditions."
Although certain side effects, like fluctuations in sleep, hunger, or energy levels, are quite common and often enhance over time, others may be less typical or more persistent.
Speak with Your Doctor Concerning Serious Adverse Reactions
Depression drug unwanted effects may differ in severity, which could warrant a adjustment in your medication.
"An modification in antidepressant may be necessary if the patient experiences continuing or unbearable unwanted effects that don't get better with time or supportive care," one expert stated.
"Furthermore, if there is an development of new health problems that may be worsened by the present medication, such as high blood pressure, arrhythmia, or significant weight gain."
You may furthermore think about consulting with your physician concerning any deficiency of meaningful enhancement in depression-related or anxiety-related symptoms after an sufficient trial period. The adequate evaluation duration is generally 4–8 weeks duration at a therapeutic dose.
Patient inclination is additionally crucial. Certain individuals may want to avoid specific side effects, including sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition
