Antidepressant medicines are commonly prescribed to help people conquer depression, anxiety and pain. There are some common side effects to taking antidepressant medicines, but most usually resolve within the first few weeks of taking the medication. If the side effects are severe or prolonged you should consult your physician for medical advice. Do not attempt to alter your dose or discontinue your antidepressant without being under the supervision of a physician.
Headaches
Headaches are a very common side effect of antidepressant medicines. These medications work by altering the chemicals in your brain, specifically serotonin. Serotonin plays many roles in the brain and body, but one is helping alleviate pain. When these chemicals are altered in your brain, headaches will naturally occur. This side effect usually resolves in a couple of weeks.
Nausea
Many people suffer from nausea for a few days after they start taking an antidepressant medicine as their body adjusts to the chemical changes induced by the drug. If nausea is persistent or troublesome, your physician may be able to prescribe you something to help alleviate this side effect.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea and abdominal pain are side effects that some, but not all, people who take antidepressant medicines experience. It is usually temporary while your body adjusts to the medication, but may occur infrequently throughout the continued use of the drug. If the effects are severe or prolonged, visit your physician. He may need to switch your antidepressant medicine.
Weight Changes
Weight changes with antidepressants do not occur immediately when you begin the medication. These changes are more subtle and occur with prolonged use of the medication. Most people experience weight gain, but some may experience weight loss. This concern can be discussed with your physician as he will compare the benefit of the drug to your medical condition to the weight changes that you may experience.
Decreased Libido
A very common and troubling side effect for many people taking antidepressant medicines is a lowered sex drive. In addition to the lowered sex drive, some people may find sex less enjoyable and may not be able to reach orgasm. These concerns should be discussed with your physician, and if you experience this decrease in libido, he will be able to discuss options to combat this side effect.
