Depression Drug Unwanted Effects Such as Body Weight, Blood Pressure Fluctuations Range by Drug
- A comprehensive recent investigation discovered that the unwanted effects of antidepressant medications differ significantly by drug.
- Some medications caused weight loss, whereas different drugs led to weight gain.
- Pulse rate and arterial pressure furthermore diverged notably across medications.
- Those encountering persistent, severe, or concerning unwanted effects should consult a medical provider.
Recent studies has revealed that antidepressant medication unwanted effects may be more diverse than previously thought.
The large-scale investigation, issued on October 21st, assessed the influence of antidepressant medications on over 58,000 individuals within the beginning eight weeks of commencing treatment.
The investigators examined 151 research projects of 30 drugs commonly used to address clinical depression. Although not every patient develops adverse reactions, several of the most common observed in the study were changes in weight, arterial pressure, and metabolic markers.
Researchers observed striking variations across depression treatments. For instance, an two-month treatment period of one medication was connected with an mean decrease in mass of approximately 2.4 kilograms (roughly 5.3 lbs), while another drug individuals increased almost 2 kg in the same timeframe.
Additionally, marked changes in cardiovascular activity: fluvoxamine often would reduce pulse rate, while nortriptyline raised it, creating a difference of around 21 beats per minute across the two drugs. Blood pressure fluctuated also, with an 11 mmHg disparity seen among one drug and doxepin.
Antidepressant Adverse Reactions Comprise a Extensive Spectrum
Healthcare specialists observed that the investigation's findings aren't new or surprising to psychiatrists.
"We've long known that distinct antidepressant medications differ in their influences on weight, arterial pressure, and further metabolic indicators," a professional commented.
"Nevertheless, what is remarkable about this investigation is the comprehensive, comparative measurement of these disparities among a wide range of physiological parameters using information from in excess of 58,000 subjects," this professional noted.
This research provides comprehensive proof of the magnitude of unwanted effects, certain of which are more prevalent than others. Common antidepressant adverse reactions may encompass:
- gastrointestinal symptoms (sickness, loose stools, blockage)
- sexual problems (decreased libido, inability to orgasm)
- body weight fluctuations (increase or loss, depending on the medication)
- rest issues (inability to sleep or drowsiness)
- mouth dryness, moisture, head pain
Meanwhile, less common but therapeutically relevant adverse reactions may comprise:
- elevations in BP or heart rate (particularly with SNRIs and some tricyclic antidepressants)
- hyponatremia (notably in older adults, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
- liver enzyme elevations
- Corrected QT interval prolongation (potential of abnormal heart rhythm, notably with citalopram and some tricyclic antidepressants)
- diminished feelings or indifference
"One thing to remember regarding this matter is that there are multiple distinct types of antidepressants, which result in the different unwanted pharmaceutical effects," another specialist commented.
"Moreover, antidepressant medications can impact every individual variably, and negative reactions can vary depending on the specific medication, dose, and individual factors like body chemistry or simultaneous health issues."
Although some side effects, including changes in sleep, hunger, or vitality, are reasonably common and commonly get better with time, others may be less typical or continuing.
Talk with Your Physician About Intense Adverse Reactions
Antidepressant unwanted effects may vary in seriousness, which could justify a adjustment in your medication.
"An modification in depression drug may be warranted if the individual encounters ongoing or unbearable adverse reactions that do not improve with duration or supportive care," a professional said.
"Moreover, if there is an development of recently developed medical conditions that may be aggravated by the current drug, such as high blood pressure, arrhythmia, or substantial increased body weight."
Patients may additionally contemplate consulting with your physician about any absence of significant improvement in low mood or anxiety-related indicators after an adequate evaluation duration. An adequate testing period is typically 4–8 weeks at a treatment dosage.
Personal choice is additionally important. Some people may choose to prevent specific adverse reactions, such as sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition
