Depression Drug Adverse Reactions Including Weight, Blood Pressure Changes Vary Based on Pharmaceutical

Latest investigation offers robust findings of the broad range of depression treatment unwanted effects.
  • An extensive recent research determined that the side effects of antidepressants differ considerably by drug.
  • Some medications led to decreased mass, whereas different drugs caused increased body weight.
  • Cardiac rhythm and blood pressure furthermore differed significantly across treatments.
  • Patients experiencing persistent, serious, or worrisome unwanted effects must speak with a physician.

Latest studies has found that antidepressant medication adverse reactions may be more extensive than earlier believed.

The comprehensive research, released on the 21st of October, examined the impact of depression treatments on over 58,000 participants within the beginning two months of beginning medication.

The investigators examined 151 research projects of 30 drugs frequently used to address clinical depression. While not all individuals develops unwanted effects, certain of the most frequent noted in the research were variations in body weight, BP, and metabolic indicators.

The study revealed notable variations among antidepressant medications. For example, an 60-day treatment period of one medication was associated with an typical weight loss of around 2.4 kilos (about 5.3 lbs), while another drug individuals added nearly 2 kg in the equivalent timeframe.

Additionally, notable changes in heart function: one antidepressant was likely to reduce pulse rate, whereas another medication elevated it, creating a difference of around 21 heartbeats per minute between the two drugs. Arterial pressure fluctuated too, with an 11 mmHg disparity observed among one drug and another medication.

Depression Drug Side Effects Comprise a Broad Range

Healthcare experts observed that the study's findings are not considered recent or unexpected to psychiatrists.

"Clinicians have long recognized that various depression drugs differ in their effects on weight, blood pressure, and other metabolic measures," a expert commented.

"Nonetheless, what is significant about this research is the rigorous, relative assessment of these differences among a broad range of physical indicators employing information from over 58,000 individuals," this professional noted.

The study provides comprehensive evidence of the degree of side effects, certain of which are more common than different reactions. Frequent depression drug side effects may include:

  • digestive issues (sickness, bowel issues, constipation)
  • sexual dysfunction (reduced sex drive, anorgasmia)
  • weight changes (gain or decrease, based on the agent)
  • rest issues (insomnia or drowsiness)
  • dry mouth, sweating, headache

Meanwhile, less frequent but therapeutically relevant unwanted effects may encompass:

  • rises in arterial pressure or cardiac rhythm (particularly with SNRIs and certain tricyclics)
  • low sodium (particularly in senior patients, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
  • increased liver enzymes
  • QTc prolongation (potential of abnormal heart rhythm, particularly with one medication and some tricyclic antidepressants)
  • diminished feelings or apathy

"An important point to note regarding this matter is that there are multiple distinct categories of depression drugs, which contribute to the varying adverse medication side effects," a different professional explained.

"Moreover, depression treatments can affect each patient variably, and unwanted reactions can vary depending on the particular pharmaceutical, dose, and personal elements like metabolic rate or simultaneous health issues."

While certain side effects, such as variations in sleep, hunger, or vitality, are reasonably frequent and frequently improve over time, different reactions may be less typical or continuing.

Consult with Your Doctor Concerning Severe Unwanted Effects

Depression drug adverse reactions may differ in severity, which could justify a adjustment in your medication.

"An change in antidepressant medication may be appropriate if the person encounters ongoing or intolerable adverse reactions that don't get better with passing days or supportive measures," one specialist said.

"Moreover, if there is an appearance of new medical issues that may be worsened by the present drug, for example elevated BP, irregular heartbeat, or substantial increased body weight."

Patients may furthermore think about talking with your physician regarding any absence of substantial enhancement in depressive or anxiety symptoms following an adequate evaluation duration. An sufficient evaluation duration is typically 4–8 weeks' time at a effective dosage.

Personal inclination is additionally crucial. Some individuals may want to prevent certain unwanted effects, such as sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Margaret Houston
Margaret Houston

A dedicated writer and theologian passionate about sharing faith-based insights and fostering community connections.