Depression Drug Unwanted Effects Such as Body Weight, Blood Pressure Variations Range Depending on Medication

Latest investigation delivers comprehensive evidence of the broad range of depression treatment adverse reactions.
  • A comprehensive latest research found that the unwanted effects of antidepressant medications vary significantly by drug.
  • Certain medications caused weight loss, while other medications led to added mass.
  • Pulse rate and blood pressure furthermore differed markedly between treatments.
  • Individuals experiencing persistent, intense, or troubling unwanted effects should speak with a physician.

New investigations has revealed that depression drug adverse reactions may be more varied than previously thought.

The comprehensive investigation, published on October 21, analyzed the impact of depression treatments on in excess of 58,000 subjects within the beginning eight weeks of starting medication.

These scientists analyzed 151 studies of 30 pharmaceuticals typically employed to treat depression. Although not all individuals experiences unwanted effects, some of the most frequent observed in the study were changes in body weight, blood pressure, and metabolic parameters.

Researchers observed notable disparities between antidepressant drugs. For instance, an two-month regimen of agomelatine was associated with an average decrease in mass of about 2.4 kilos (roughly 5.3 pounds), whereas another drug patients increased almost 2 kg in the identical period.

There were also, marked fluctuations in heart function: one antidepressant often would decrease pulse rate, whereas nortriptyline increased it, causing a gap of about 21 beats per minute between the two drugs. BP varied as well, with an 11 mmHg difference seen between one drug and another medication.

Depression Drug Side Effects Comprise a Broad Array

Clinical professionals commented that the research's findings are not recent or startling to psychiatric specialists.

"It has long been understood that distinct depression drugs range in their effects on weight, arterial pressure, and other metabolic indicators," a specialist stated.

"However, what is significant about this study is the comprehensive, relative measurement of these differences across a broad array of physiological parameters utilizing information from more than 58,000 participants," the expert added.

The study delivers robust evidence of the magnitude of side effects, some of which are more common than other effects. Frequent antidepressant adverse reactions may comprise:

  • digestive issues (queasiness, diarrhea, blockage)
  • sexual problems (lowered desire, inability to orgasm)
  • weight changes (gain or decrease, according to the agent)
  • rest issues (sleeplessness or sleepiness)
  • mouth dryness, sweating, headache

Additionally, less frequent but therapeutically relevant side effects may comprise:

  • rises in BP or cardiac rhythm (notably with SNRIs and some tricyclic antidepressants)
  • hyponatremia (notably in older adults, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and SNRIs)
  • elevated hepatic parameters
  • Corrected QT interval prolongation (risk of arrhythmia, especially with one medication and some tricyclic antidepressants)
  • emotional blunting or indifference

"An important point to remember regarding this matter is that there are multiple distinct types of antidepressants, which contribute to the different adverse medication effects," a different specialist stated.

"Moreover, antidepressant medications can influence each patient variably, and adverse reactions can range depending on the specific drug, dose, and patient elements like body chemistry or comorbidities."

While some side effects, such as fluctuations in sleep, hunger, or vitality, are reasonably typical and frequently enhance as time passes, other effects may be less typical or more persistent.

Talk with Your Physician Concerning Intense Adverse Reactions

Depression drug adverse reactions may range in intensity, which could require a modification in your drug.

"A adjustment in antidepressant medication may be appropriate if the patient suffers persistent or intolerable unwanted effects that don't get better with passing days or management strategies," a professional said.

"Furthermore, if there is an development of recently developed medical issues that may be exacerbated by the present medication, for example elevated BP, irregular heartbeat, or substantial mass addition."

Individuals may furthermore consider speaking with your physician about any deficiency of significant improvement in depressive or anxiety signs subsequent to an sufficient testing period. An sufficient evaluation duration is generally 4–8 weeks duration at a therapeutic dose.

Personal choice is additionally crucial. Some patients may prefer to avoid specific adverse reactions, including sexual problems or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition

Angela Perez
Angela Perez

A seasoned fashion journalist with a passion for sustainable style and trend forecasting.