Depression Drug Side Effects Such as Body Weight, Blood Pressure Changes Vary Depending on Medication
- A extensive latest study discovered that the side effects of antidepressant medications differ substantially by drug.
- Some medications led to reduced body weight, while different drugs caused increased body weight.
- Cardiac rhythm and arterial pressure also differed significantly among medications.
- Those encountering persistent, severe, or concerning side effects ought to speak with a physician.
Recent studies has discovered that depression drug adverse reactions may be more varied than once assumed.
The comprehensive investigation, issued on October 21st, assessed the impact of depression treatments on over 58,000 participants within the beginning two months of beginning treatment.
The investigators examined 151 research projects of 30 pharmaceuticals commonly used to address major depression. Although not everyone develops adverse reactions, certain of the most frequent noted in the research were changes in body weight, BP, and metabolic parameters.
There were striking variations between antidepressant medications. For example, an eight-week treatment period of one medication was linked to an mean reduction in body weight of about 2.4 kg (roughly 5.3 pounds), while maprotiline patients increased almost 2 kg in the same timeframe.
Additionally, notable variations in heart function: fluvoxamine often would slow cardiac rhythm, while another medication increased it, causing a gap of about 21 beats per minute across the both treatments. Blood pressure fluctuated also, with an 11 millimeters of mercury disparity observed across one drug and another medication.
Depression Drug Adverse Reactions Include a Broad Array
Clinical specialists commented that the study's results are not new or startling to psychiatrists.
"It has long been understood that distinct antidepressant medications range in their influences on body weight, BP, and additional metabolic parameters," one specialist stated.
"Nonetheless, what is remarkable about this study is the rigorous, comparison-based quantification of these disparities throughout a extensive spectrum of physiological parameters employing information from more than 58,000 subjects," the specialist added.
The investigation provides strong proof of the extent of adverse reactions, several of which are more common than different reactions. Typical antidepressant side effects may encompass:
- gastrointestinal symptoms (sickness, bowel issues, constipation)
- intimacy issues (decreased libido, orgasmic dysfunction)
- body weight fluctuations (gain or reduction, depending on the medication)
- rest issues (sleeplessness or sleepiness)
- mouth dryness, perspiration, migraine
At the same time, less frequent but clinically significant side effects may comprise:
- elevations in blood pressure or heart rate (notably with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and certain tricyclic antidepressants)
- reduced blood sodium (particularly in elderly individuals, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
- elevated hepatic parameters
- QTc extension (risk of arrhythmia, notably with one medication and some tricyclics)
- reduced emotions or lack of interest
"One thing to remember in this context is that there are various varying classes of depression drugs, which contribute to the distinct adverse medication effects," a different specialist stated.
"Moreover, depression treatments can influence each patient variably, and negative side effects can range depending on the exact drug, dosage, and patient elements including body chemistry or co-occurring conditions."
While several side effects, including fluctuations in sleep, appetite, or stamina, are fairly frequent and frequently get better over time, different reactions may be less typical or continuing.
Consult with Your Doctor Regarding Serious Unwanted Effects
Antidepressant unwanted effects may range in severity, which could require a adjustment in your drug.
"An change in depression drug may be warranted if the person encounters persistent or unbearable unwanted effects that don't get better with passing days or supportive measures," one specialist commented.
"Moreover, if there is an development of recently developed health problems that may be exacerbated by the current treatment, such as elevated BP, irregular heartbeat, or substantial weight gain."
Patients may also consider talking with your doctor regarding any absence of significant enhancement in low mood or worry symptoms after an sufficient evaluation duration. The adequate trial period is typically 4–8 weeks at a therapeutic dose.
Patient inclination is additionally important. Some people may choose to evade particular unwanted effects, including intimacy issues or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition
