Antidepressants are one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world. In fact, it’s estimated that one in ten people take antidepressants to treat their depressive symptoms. But while these medications can help alleviate some of the symptoms of depression, they often come with a number of side effects ranging from mild to severe. In this article, we’ll explore five possible side effects associated with taking an antidepressant and discuss what you need to know before considering such treatment. If you’re wondering if antidepressants are right for you or want to learn more about potential side effects, read on!
Antidepressants: How do they work?
Antidepressants are drugs used to treat major depressive disorder and, more recently, other conditions such as anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorders. They work by altering the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that help facilitate communication between different brain cells. The most commonly targeted neurotransmitters are serotonin and norepinephrine, which influence how we experience emotions, moods, and thoughts.
Antidepressants generally fall into two broad categories: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant. They work by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, thereby increasing its level in the synapse so that it can be used more effectively by the receptors. TCAs have a similar action by acting on both serotonin and norepinephrine. However, they also block other receptor sites at higher doses, resulting in greater potential side effects than SSRIs.
The exact mechanism by which antidepressants work is not yet fully understood. However, research suggests that these medications can help restore the balance between neurotransmitter systems affected by depression. Additionally, antidepressants have been found to improve communication between different areas of the brain responsible for emotions and thoughts, allowing people with depression to better regulate their mood and behavior.
Here are the five side effects of antidepressants.
Nausea.
One of the most commonly reported side effects of antidepressants is nausea. Nausea can appear soon after starting antidepressant treatment and can be felt as a feeling of being sick or a real feeling of vomiting. They can be accompanied by other digestive problems such as abdominal pain, changes in appetite and indigestion. Nausea is usually short-lived, but may persist in some people even after stopping the drug.
Sexual dysfunction.
Another common side effect of antidepressants is sexual dysfunction, such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, and delayed ejaculation. These problems are more common in men than in women and are often temporary effects that go away once the body has adjusted to the medication. In some cases, switching to a different type of antidepressant or lowering the dose can help alleviate these symptoms.
Weight gain.
Antidepressants can also cause weight gain due to their influence on appetite, metabolism and level of physical activity, although this side effect is not experienced by everyone who takes them. Weight gain usually occurs gradually, with only minor fluctuations during the different phases of treatment. It is therefore important to maintain a healthy lifestyle during treatment in order to avoid significant weight gain.
Persistent drowsiness and fatigue.
Drowsiness and fatigue are also frequently reported side effects when taking antidepressants, especially at the start of treatment or when introducing a new dose. The impact on energy levels can be felt both physically and mentally, making it difficult to complete daily tasks or concentrate at work or school.
Suicidal thoughts.
Antidepressants increase suicidal thoughts in some individuals because they often act as a double-edged sword. On the one hand, they can have a positive effect by improving the mood or energy level of those who take them. However, they can also make individuals restless and impulsive due to altered neurotransmitters in their brains. For example, by increasing the activity of serotonin in the brain, these drugs can cause overactivity of certain neurotransmitters that make people more prone to impulsiveness and disruptive behaviors. Therefore, antidepressants may increase the risk of suicide because impulsivity increases the potential for radical action in vulnerable individuals.
Opt for natural antidepressants instead!
Natural antidepressants can include lifestyle modifications such as exercise, diet, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, which have been shown to be effective. Research has also shown that vitamins D, B12, and omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the mood of people with depression.
Additionally, incorporating herbs such as St. John’s Wort, Rhodiola Rosea, Valerian Root, Lavender, and Chamomile into your daily routine has been linked to improvements in overall well-being. All of these methods are safe alternatives to pharmaceuticals and have minimal side effects compared to prescription drugs. So be sure to take care of yourself and explore the many non-pharmaceutical remedies available to improve your mental health!
