Antidepressants function by elevating the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. These chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, are responsible for transmitting signals between brain cells. An imbalance of these neurotransmitters can lead to depression and its associated symptoms.
While antidepressant medications are often prescribed for the treatment of depression, questions about their safety and side effects are common. This article aims to address some prevalent concerns related to these medications.
Side Effects of Antidepressants
All antidepressants come with potential side effects, though their severity can vary depending on the specific medication.
Here are some common side effects:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Agitation or anxiety
- Nausea
- Indigestion and stomach issues
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
- Headaches
- Decreased libido
- Difficulty achieving orgasm during sexual activities
- Erectile dysfunction
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Difficulty urinating
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Weight gain
- Excessive sweating (especially at night)
- Heart rhythm issues (arrhythmia), such as palpitations or rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
Long-term Effects of Antidepressants
Prolonged use of antidepressants can sometimes lead to serotonin syndrome, a rare but potentially serious condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the brain due to drug interactions.
Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include:
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Muscle twitching
- Sweating
- Shivering
- Diarrhea
Other long-term side effects of using antidepressants may include:
- Sexual dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Emotional numbness
- Feeling detached from oneself
- Reduced positive emotions
- Dependency
- Decreased empathy
- Suicidal thoughts
Negative Effects on The Brain
Certain antidepressants can have adverse effects on brain function, potentially leading to more severe mental health issues. These effects can include:
- Increased suicidal ideation, particularly in individuals under the age of 25.
- Mania and bipolar disorder, especially when antidepressants are taken without a mood stabilizer.
- Decreased alertness, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, and memory problems, which can be triggered by incorrect dosages of antidepressants.