Antidepressant Medication Unwanted Effects Including Body Weight, BP Variations Differ by Drug

• An extensive new study determined that the unwanted effects of antidepressant medications differ considerably by drug.
• Some drugs caused weight loss, whereas others led to increased body weight.
• Pulse rate and blood pressure also varied notably between drugs.
• Individuals suffering from continuing, intense, or concerning adverse reactions must consult a medical provider.

New investigations has revealed that antidepressant medication side effects may be more diverse than previously thought.

This comprehensive research, published on October 21, analyzed the effect of depression treatments on more than 58,000 participants within the first eight weeks of beginning therapy.

The investigators analyzed 151 studies of 30 pharmaceuticals frequently prescribed to treat depression. While not every patient encounters side effects, some of the most prevalent observed in the investigation were variations in body weight, BP, and metabolic indicators.

The study revealed notable differences among antidepressant medications. As an illustration, an two-month treatment period of one medication was associated with an mean reduction in body weight of around 2.4 kilos (approximately 5.3 pounds), whereas another drug users gained close to 2 kg in the same period.

Additionally, significant fluctuations in heart function: one antidepressant tended to reduce heart rate, while another medication increased it, creating a gap of around 21 BPM between the both treatments. Arterial pressure varied also, with an 11 millimeters of mercury difference seen across nortriptyline and doxepin.

Healthcare professionals commented that the investigation's findings are not considered recent or surprising to mental health professionals.

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

"Nevertheless, what is notable about this study is the rigorous, relative quantification of these differences across a broad spectrum of bodily measurements utilizing information from over 58,000 subjects," this specialist added.

The study delivers robust proof of the degree of side effects, some of which are more common than others. Common depression drug adverse reactions may comprise:

• stomach problems (queasiness, loose stools, blockage)
• intimacy issues (decreased libido, anorgasmia)
• body weight fluctuations (gain or reduction, based on the agent)
• sleep problems (sleeplessness or drowsiness)
• mouth dryness, sweating, migraine

Meanwhile, less common but therapeutically relevant adverse reactions may comprise:

• elevations in BP or heart rate (notably with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and some tricyclic antidepressants)
• hyponatremia (particularly in elderly individuals, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
• elevated hepatic parameters
• Corrected QT interval extension (potential of abnormal heart rhythm, particularly with citalopram and some tricyclics)
• reduced emotions or indifference

"An important point to consider in this context is that there are multiple different types of antidepressants, which contribute to the different unwanted drug reactions," a different specialist explained.

"Furthermore, depression treatments can influence every individual differently, and negative side effects can range depending on the exact pharmaceutical, dosage, and patient elements including metabolism or co-occurring conditions."

Although certain side effects, such as changes in sleep, hunger, or stamina, are quite common and frequently improve over time, others may be less common or more persistent.

Antidepressant medication adverse reactions may range in severity, which could justify a modification in your treatment.

"An modification in antidepressant medication may be appropriate if the individual encounters continuing or unbearable adverse reactions that do not improve with duration or supportive care," one specialist said.

"Additionally, if there is an appearance of recent medical conditions that may be worsened by the current medication, for example hypertension, abnormal heart rhythm, or considerable weight gain."

Individuals may furthermore consider consulting with your doctor regarding any deficiency of significant enhancement in low mood or worry symptoms subsequent to an appropriate trial period. An sufficient testing period is typically 4–8 weeks at a therapeutic dosage.

Personal preference is furthermore important. Some individuals may prefer to avoid particular unwanted effects, such as sexual dysfunction or {weight gain|increased body weight|mass addition