Antidepressant Side Effects Including Body Weight, BP Variations Differ Based on Pharmaceutical

New investigation offers robust proof of the extensive spectrum of depression treatment side effects.
  • A large latest study discovered that the unwanted effects of antidepressant medications range substantially by drug.
  • Some pharmaceuticals caused reduced body weight, while different drugs caused added mass.
  • Cardiac rhythm and blood pressure also differed markedly across drugs.
  • Those suffering from persistent, intense, or worrisome side effects must discuss with a physician.

Latest studies has revealed that depression drug adverse reactions may be more diverse than once assumed.

The extensive research, published on the 21st of October, analyzed the influence of antidepressant drugs on over 58,000 participants within the beginning 60 days of beginning medication.

The scientists analyzed 151 investigations of 30 pharmaceuticals commonly employed to manage major depression. Although not everyone develops unwanted effects, some of the most common observed in the study were variations in body weight, BP, and metabolic indicators.

There were notable differences across depression treatments. As an illustration, an eight-week course of one medication was associated with an typical reduction in body weight of approximately 2.4 kilograms (about 5.3 lbs), whereas another drug users added almost 2 kg in the same period.

There were also, notable variations in cardiovascular activity: fluvoxamine often would decrease cardiac rhythm, in contrast nortriptyline raised it, producing a gap of approximately 21 beats per minute among the two medications. Arterial pressure varied also, with an 11 mmHg variation observed between nortriptyline and another medication.

Antidepressant Medication Side Effects Encompass a Wide Range

Medical professionals commented that the study's results are not considered new or surprising to psychiatrists.

"We've long known that distinct antidepressant medications range in their influences on body weight, arterial pressure, and additional metabolic parameters," a specialist stated.

"However, what is significant about this research is the thorough, comparative assessment of these disparities across a wide range of bodily measurements utilizing information from more than 58,000 subjects," the expert added.

The research delivers comprehensive proof of the extent of side effects, certain of which are more frequent than different reactions. Typical depression drug adverse reactions may comprise:

  • gastrointestinal symptoms (sickness, bowel issues, constipation)
  • intimacy issues (decreased libido, anorgasmia)
  • mass variations (addition or decrease, based on the agent)
  • sleep problems (inability to sleep or sedation)
  • mouth dryness, perspiration, head pain

Meanwhile, less frequent but clinically significant side effects may include:

  • elevations in arterial pressure or pulse rate (notably with SNRIs and certain tricyclic antidepressants)
  • reduced blood sodium (especially in older adults, with SSRIs and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
  • increased liver enzymes
  • QTc extension (chance of abnormal heart rhythm, notably with citalopram and certain tricyclics)
  • emotional blunting or indifference

"A key factor to remember here is that there are multiple distinct classes of antidepressants, which result in the different unwanted medication effects," a different professional stated.

"Furthermore, antidepressant medications can affect each person distinctly, and unwanted reactions can vary based on the exact medication, amount, and patient elements like metabolism or co-occurring conditions."

Although some unwanted effects, like fluctuations in rest, appetite, or stamina, are quite frequent and frequently improve with time, different reactions may be less common or more persistent.

Talk with Your Healthcare Provider About Serious Unwanted Effects

Depression drug adverse reactions may vary in severity, which could warrant a change in your treatment.

"An modification in depression drug may be necessary if the patient encounters continuing or intolerable unwanted effects that don't get better with passing days or supportive measures," a expert said.

"Furthermore, if there is an appearance of new medical conditions that may be worsened by the present medication, for instance elevated BP, irregular heartbeat, or substantial increased body weight."

You may also consider consulting with your healthcare provider about any absence of significant progress in low mood or anxiety-related indicators after an adequate trial period. The sufficient testing period is usually 4–8 weeks at a treatment amount.

Individual choice is furthermore important. Certain individuals may prefer to avoid certain adverse reactions, such as sexual dysfunction or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Diana Richards
Diana Richards

A passionate writer and life coach dedicated to helping others achieve their full potential through mindful practices.