Antidepressant Side Effects Like Weight, BP Fluctuations Range by Drug

• An comprehensive latest investigation found that the unwanted effects of depression drugs differ substantially by drug.
• Some drugs led to weight loss, whereas others resulted in weight gain.
• Heart rate and arterial pressure furthermore differed notably between treatments.
• Those suffering from ongoing, serious, or concerning side effects must speak with a healthcare professional.

Recent investigations has found that antidepressant medication side effects may be more diverse than previously thought.

This large-scale research, issued on the 21st of October, examined the impact of antidepressant medications on in excess of 58,000 individuals within the beginning 60 days of starting therapy.

The scientists examined 151 research projects of 30 medications commonly employed to treat major depression. Although not all individuals encounters unwanted effects, some of the most prevalent observed in the investigation were fluctuations in weight, BP, and metabolic indicators.

The study revealed significant disparities among depression treatments. For example, an two-month course of one medication was connected with an mean weight loss of about 2.4 kilograms (roughly 5.3 lbs), whereas maprotiline users gained close to 2 kg in the equivalent period.

There were also, notable changes in cardiac function: one antidepressant often would decrease heart rate, while nortriptyline raised it, producing a disparity of about 21 BPM among the both treatments. Blood pressure fluctuated as well, with an 11 millimeters of mercury difference observed between one drug and doxepin.

Healthcare specialists commented that the study's findings aren't new or unexpected to psychiatric specialists.

"It has long been understood that different antidepressant medications vary in their effects on body weight, BP, and additional metabolic indicators," a professional commented.

"Nonetheless, what is notable about this research is the comprehensive, comparison-based assessment of these variations throughout a wide array of physiological parameters employing data from more than 58,000 individuals," this expert commented.

This investigation delivers comprehensive support of the magnitude of side effects, some of which are more frequent than others. Frequent antidepressant medication side effects may encompass:

• digestive issues (queasiness, bowel issues, constipation)
• intimacy issues (decreased libido, inability to orgasm)
• weight changes (addition or reduction, according to the medication)
• rest issues (sleeplessness or sedation)
• oral dehydration, moisture, head pain

Meanwhile, less frequent but medically important adverse reactions may encompass:

• elevations in blood pressure or heart rate (particularly with SNRIs and certain tricyclic antidepressants)
• low sodium (particularly in older adults, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
• elevated hepatic parameters
• QTc extension (risk of abnormal heart rhythm, especially with one medication and some tricyclics)
• reduced emotions or lack of interest

"One thing to remember in this context is that there are several varying types of antidepressants, which lead to the different unwanted drug side effects," another specialist stated.

"Furthermore, antidepressant drugs can impact each person distinctly, and negative side effects can range depending on the specific pharmaceutical, amount, and individual considerations including body chemistry or co-occurring conditions."

Although some unwanted effects, like fluctuations in rest, appetite, or energy levels, are reasonably typical and often enhance as time passes, others may be less common or more persistent.

Antidepressant medication side effects may differ in intensity, which could justify a modification in your medication.

"A adjustment in depression drug may be appropriate if the patient experiences continuing or intolerable unwanted effects that fail to enhance with passing days or management strategies," one professional commented.

"Furthermore, if there is an appearance of new medical issues that may be worsened by the current treatment, for example elevated BP, irregular heartbeat, or considerable increased body weight."

Individuals may additionally think about speaking with your healthcare provider regarding any deficiency of substantial progress in depression-related or worry indicators following an adequate trial period. The adequate testing period is typically 4–8 weeks' time at a effective dosage.

Patient inclination is additionally crucial. Certain individuals may choose to evade particular side effects, including intimacy issues or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition