As described by the National Institute of Mental Health, antidepressant medications come in many types and include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, commonly called SSRIs, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs, tricyclics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, and other drugs, such as Wellbutrin. These work on different neurotransmitters in the brain, changing levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine to alleviate symptoms of depression.
Common Side Effects
The most commonly used antidepressants are the SSRIs. These and the SNRIs have been found to have fewer side effects than the older antidepressant drugs, such as the tricyclics. As reported by the National Institute of Mental Health, side effects of SSRIs and SNRIs include headaches, difficulty sleeping, drowsiness or fatigue, nausea, restlessness, and sexual difficulties. The side effects of the tricyclics include constipation, dry mouth, blurred vision, feeling sleepy, sexual difficulties and bladder problems.
Suicidal Thoughts
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reported some more serious side effects of antidepressants that need to be considered. The FDA indicated that children, adolescents and young adults up to age 24 who use antidepressants may be more likely to think about taking their own life. There is also a greater risk that they may commit or attempt to commit suicide.
Mania
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also reported that individuals with bipolar disorder who are given antidepressants may experience mania as a result, even psychosis in some cases. It is important to determine whether a person is experiencing depression on its own, or depression in the course of bipolar disorder before prescribing medication.
Hypertension and Birth Injury
Other risks reported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration include high blood pressure and birth defects. Individuals taking MAOIs must avoid certain foods and medication that cause drug interactions. One such interaction between MAOIs and tyramine, a chemical found in cheese, wine, pickles and some cold medications, can lead to serious increases in blood pressure, even stroke. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found evidence that one antidepressant medication, Paxil, has a significant risk of harming unborn children.
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