Depression Drug Unwanted Effects Such as Weight, BP Variations Range Depending on Medication

New research offers robust findings of the broad array of depression treatment unwanted effects.
  • A extensive new study determined that the unwanted effects of depression drugs range substantially by drug.
  • Some drugs resulted in decreased mass, whereas other medications led to increased body weight.
  • Heart rate and arterial pressure furthermore diverged significantly among drugs.
  • Those suffering from ongoing, intense, or concerning adverse reactions must discuss with a medical provider.

Recent studies has discovered that antidepressant side effects may be more varied than previously thought.

The comprehensive research, released on October 21, assessed the impact of depression treatments on in excess of 58,000 participants within the beginning 60 days of starting therapy.

The scientists examined 151 studies of 30 medications commonly employed to address major depression. While not all individuals develops unwanted effects, several of the most common observed in the investigation were fluctuations in weight, arterial pressure, and metabolic markers.

Researchers observed striking differences between antidepressant medications. For instance, an eight-week regimen of agomelatine was associated with an typical decrease in mass of around 2.4 kilos (about 5.3 pounds), whereas maprotiline individuals added nearly 2 kg in the same duration.

There were also, marked fluctuations in cardiac function: fluvoxamine often would reduce pulse rate, whereas another medication raised it, causing a gap of about 21 BPM among the both treatments. Blood pressure differed also, with an 11 millimeters of mercury variation observed among one drug and another medication.

Depression Drug Side Effects Include a Wide Spectrum

Clinical experts noted that the research's findings aren't recent or surprising to psychiatrists.

"We've long known that distinct depression drugs range in their influences on body weight, arterial pressure, and other metabolic indicators," a professional stated.

"Nonetheless, what is significant about this research is the thorough, comparative measurement of these differences across a broad range of bodily measurements employing findings from more than 58,000 participants," this professional added.

The research delivers strong evidence of the degree of unwanted effects, certain of which are more prevalent than others. Common antidepressant side effects may comprise:

  • digestive issues (queasiness, bowel issues, irregularity)
  • sexual problems (reduced sex drive, inability to orgasm)
  • body weight fluctuations (increase or reduction, according to the drug)
  • sleep problems (sleeplessness or drowsiness)
  • mouth dryness, perspiration, headache

Additionally, less common but therapeutically relevant adverse reactions may include:

  • rises in BP or pulse rate (especially with SNRIs and certain tricyclic antidepressants)
  • reduced blood sodium (particularly in elderly individuals, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
  • liver enzyme elevations
  • QTc lengthening (chance of abnormal heart rhythm, notably with citalopram and some tricyclic antidepressants)
  • diminished feelings or lack of interest

"One thing to remember in this context is that there are various distinct classes of antidepressant medications, which lead to the varying unwanted medication reactions," a different professional stated.

"Furthermore, antidepressant drugs can influence each person distinctly, and unwanted effects can vary based on the exact pharmaceutical, amount, and individual factors like body chemistry or co-occurring conditions."

While several unwanted effects, such as fluctuations in rest, hunger, or stamina, are reasonably typical and commonly get better as time passes, other effects may be less frequent or continuing.

Speak with Your Healthcare Provider Regarding Intense Side Effects

Antidepressant adverse reactions may range in intensity, which could require a modification in your medication.

"An adjustment in depression drug may be necessary if the patient suffers continuing or unacceptable side effects that fail to enhance with time or supportive care," a specialist said.

"Additionally, if there is an appearance of recently developed medical conditions that may be aggravated by the present treatment, for instance elevated BP, arrhythmia, or significant increased body weight."

You may also contemplate speaking with your healthcare provider regarding any deficiency of significant improvement in low mood or worry signs following an appropriate trial period. The sufficient testing period is usually 4–8 weeks at a treatment dose.

Personal choice is additionally important. Certain individuals may choose to avoid specific adverse reactions, such as sexual dysfunction or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Laura West
Laura West

Fashion enthusiast and urban lifestyle blogger with a passion for sustainable trends and city living.