Antidepressants may cause a variety of mild and usually temporary side effects (sometimes referred to as adverse effects) in some people. Typically these are annoying, but not serious. However, patients should be encouraged to immediately report any unusual reactions or side effects. The most common side effects of tricyclic antidepressants are:
· Dry mouth
· Constipation
· Bladder problems
· Sexual problems
· Blurred vision
· Dizziness
· Drowsiness as a daytime problem
· Weight gain
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The SSRIs and newer antidepressants have somewhat different side effects:
· Headache
· Nausea
· Nervousness
· Agitation (feeling jittery)
· Sleep problems
· Sexual problems
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Most of the medications that are prescribed to treat depression are usually started at a low dose and then the dose is gradually increased to the full dose. Every medication has side effects, but they usually become tolerated or diminish with time.
Samantha, Health Educator
