Antidepressant Adverse Reactions Including Weight, BP Fluctuations Differ Depending on Medication
- A large latest study determined that the unwanted effects of depression drugs range substantially by drug.
- Certain drugs caused decreased mass, while other medications caused added mass.
- Cardiac rhythm and arterial pressure additionally differed notably among drugs.
- Patients suffering from ongoing, serious, or concerning side effects should consult a medical provider.
Latest research has revealed that antidepressant adverse reactions may be more varied than previously thought.
The comprehensive research, published on October 21st, assessed the effect of antidepressant medications on more than 58,000 individuals within the beginning eight weeks of starting therapy.
These scientists examined 151 studies of 30 drugs commonly prescribed to treat major depression. While not all individuals encounters unwanted effects, certain of the most frequent recorded in the investigation were fluctuations in weight, blood pressure, and metabolic parameters.
There were notable differences among antidepressant medications. For instance, an two-month treatment period of one medication was associated with an mean reduction in body weight of approximately 2.4 kilograms (about 5.3 pounds), while another drug users gained nearly 2 kg in the equivalent duration.
Furthermore, marked variations in cardiovascular activity: one antidepressant was likely to slow heart rate, while nortriptyline increased it, producing a disparity of around 21 heartbeats per minute between the both treatments. Blood pressure fluctuated also, with an 11 millimeters of mercury disparity seen across one drug and another medication.
Depression Drug Side Effects Encompass a Extensive Range
Clinical experts noted that the study's results aren't new or unexpected to psychiatric specialists.
"We've long known that various depression drugs differ in their impacts on weight, arterial pressure, and additional metabolic measures," one specialist explained.
"Nonetheless, what is significant about this study is the comprehensive, comparative assessment of these differences among a wide array of physical indicators using findings from in excess of 58,000 individuals," the expert added.
The investigation offers comprehensive evidence of the degree of side effects, certain of which are more frequent than others. Typical antidepressant adverse reactions may encompass:
- stomach problems (nausea, diarrhea, blockage)
- intimacy issues (reduced sex drive, anorgasmia)
- weight changes (addition or loss, depending on the agent)
- sleep disturbances (insomnia or sleepiness)
- oral dehydration, perspiration, headache
Meanwhile, rarer but medically important adverse reactions may encompass:
- elevations in arterial pressure or pulse rate (notably with SNRIs and some tricyclic antidepressants)
- hyponatremia (notably in elderly individuals, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
- liver enzyme elevations
- QTc prolongation (risk of irregular heartbeat, notably with one medication and some tricyclic antidepressants)
- reduced emotions or lack of interest
"One thing to consider regarding this matter is that there are various different categories of antidepressants, which contribute to the varying negative drug effects," a different specialist commented.
"Furthermore, depression treatments can impact each person distinctly, and adverse side effects can vary based on the specific medication, dose, and individual considerations such as metabolism or simultaneous health issues."
While some side effects, like variations in sleep, appetite, or vitality, are quite common and frequently enhance as time passes, other effects may be less frequent or longer-lasting.
Talk with Your Physician About Severe Side Effects
Antidepressant adverse reactions may vary in intensity, which could warrant a modification in your treatment.
"An modification in antidepressant may be appropriate if the patient experiences continuing or unbearable adverse reactions that do not improve with duration or management strategies," a professional commented.
"Additionally, if there is an development of recently developed health problems that may be aggravated by the current treatment, for example high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or significant weight gain."
You may furthermore consider consulting with your doctor about any lack of significant progress in depressive or anxiety signs following an sufficient evaluation duration. An adequate trial period is typically 4–8 weeks' time at a therapeutic dosage.
Personal choice is also crucial. Some individuals may choose to prevent certain side effects, such as sexual dysfunction or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition
