Antidepressant Side Effects Such as Body Weight, Blood Pressure Fluctuations Vary by Drug
- A large recent study determined that the adverse reactions of antidepressants vary considerably by drug.
- Some pharmaceuticals caused weight loss, whereas others resulted in added mass.
- Heart rate and blood pressure also diverged notably across medications.
- Those experiencing persistent, severe, or concerning side effects should consult a medical provider.
Latest studies has revealed that antidepressant side effects may be more diverse than earlier believed.
The extensive research, issued on the 21st of October, analyzed the effect of antidepressant medications on more than 58,000 participants within the first two months of starting medication.
These researchers examined 151 studies of 30 pharmaceuticals typically prescribed to manage major depression. Although not all individuals develops unwanted effects, some of the most prevalent observed in the investigation were variations in body weight, BP, and metabolic markers.
Researchers observed notable variations among depression treatments. For example, an eight-week treatment period of agomelatine was linked to an average weight loss of about 2.4 kg (about 5.3 lbs), whereas maprotiline individuals added close to 2 kg in the identical duration.
Additionally, notable fluctuations in cardiac function: fluvoxamine often would reduce pulse rate, whereas another medication elevated it, creating a gap of around 21 heartbeats per minute between the two drugs. Blood pressure fluctuated also, with an 11 mmHg difference observed between nortriptyline and another medication.
Depression Drug Unwanted Effects Encompass a Wide Range
Clinical professionals noted that the research's findings aren't new or surprising to psychiatric specialists.
"We've long known that various antidepressants differ in their impacts on weight, BP, and other metabolic measures," a professional commented.
"However, what is significant about this investigation is the comprehensive, relative quantification of these disparities among a wide spectrum of bodily measurements using data from in excess of 58,000 subjects," this specialist added.
The study offers robust proof of the magnitude of side effects, several of which are more frequent than other effects. Common depression drug unwanted effects may include:
- gastrointestinal symptoms (queasiness, loose stools, constipation)
- sexual problems (decreased libido, inability to orgasm)
- mass variations (gain or reduction, based on the agent)
- sleep problems (insomnia or drowsiness)
- dry mouth, perspiration, head pain
At the same time, less common but therapeutically relevant adverse reactions may include:
- rises in blood pressure or cardiac rhythm (especially with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and some tricyclic antidepressants)
- reduced blood sodium (especially in senior patients, with SSRIs and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
- liver enzyme elevations
- QTc lengthening (chance of arrhythmia, particularly 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 contribute to the varying unwanted drug effects," another expert commented.
"Furthermore, depression treatments can impact each patient distinctly, and negative effects can vary based on the specific pharmaceutical, dose, and patient factors like body chemistry or co-occurring conditions."
While several adverse reactions, like fluctuations in rest, appetite, or energy levels, are reasonably typical and often get better as time passes, others may be less common or longer-lasting.
Talk with Your Healthcare Provider Concerning Intense Side Effects
Depression drug unwanted effects may range in intensity, which could warrant a change in your medication.
"A adjustment in antidepressant medication may be appropriate if the individual suffers continuing or unbearable side effects that do not improve with duration or supportive measures," one professional said.
"Moreover, if there is an development of new medical conditions that may be worsened by the existing medication, for example high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or considerable mass addition."
Patients may furthermore consider talking with your physician regarding any deficiency of significant improvement in low mood or worry signs following an adequate trial period. The appropriate testing period is generally 4–8 weeks at a effective dosage.
Individual preference is furthermore crucial. Some people may prefer to evade certain unwanted effects, including sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition
