There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that antidepressants may have a number of disadvantages. These include:
• Increased risk of suicide and self-harm, especially in young people.
• Worsening of depression symptoms in some people.
• Increased risk of anxiety, agitation and insomnia.
• Sexual side-effects such as loss of libido and erectile dysfunction.
Feeling and being sick
There are a number of potential disadvantages to taking antidepressants, as they can cause a range of side effects. The most common side effects include feeling and being sick, headaches, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain or loss, loss of interest in sex and difficulty sleeping. Some people also experience more serious side effects such as anxiety, agitation and paranoia. In rare cases, antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of suicide. If you experience any troubling side effects while taking antidepressants it is important to speak to your doctor or mental health professional immediately.
Indigestion and stomach aches
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a common side effect of antidepressants. It is characterized by pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen. This pain may be accompanied by bloating, belching, nausea, or vomiting. Indigestion is often caused by a change in diet or an increase in stress levels. It can also be a side effect of certain medications, including antidepressants.
If you experience indigestion while taking antidepressants, there are several things you can do to ease your symptoms:
– Avoid foods that trigger your indigestion. Common triggers include fatty or spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
– Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day instead of three large meals.
– Take your antidepressant with food instead of on an empty stomach.
Diarrhoea or constipation
Diarrhoea or constipation are two of the most common side effects of antidepressants. They can be extremely uncomfortable and can even lead to dehydration. Diarrhoea is caused by an increase in intestinal motility, which is when the muscles in your intestines contract too much and push food through too quickly. This can cause watery stools, abdominal cramps and bloating. Constipation is caused by a decrease in intestinal motility, which means that the muscles in your intestines contract too slowly and food moves through them more slowly than normal. This can cause hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. Both diarrhoea and constipation can be extremely frustrating and can make it difficult to stick to your antidepressant medication regimen. If you are experiencing either of these side effects, it is important to talk to your doctor so that they can adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication.
Loss of appetite
When appetite is suppressed, the body may not get the nutrients it needs. This can lead to weight loss, as well as other health problems such as fatigue and weakness. Additionally, loss of appetite can make it difficult to stick to an antidepressant medication regimen, as people may forget or be unable to take their pills regularly if they’re not hungry.
For some people, the lack of appetite caused by antidepressants can be severe enough to warrant discontinuation of the medication. If you’re experiencing significant weight loss or other adverse effects due to loss of appetite from your antidepressant medication, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage or switching medications.
Dizziness
Antidepressants are a class of drugs used to treat clinical depression, and they come with a long list of potential side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, weight gain or loss, sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, fatigue, and headaches. Less common side effects can include anxiety, agitation, restlessness, insomnia, and even suicidal thoughts or actions in some people.
While antidepressants can be effective in treating depression for many people, they are not without their risks and disadvantages. As with any medication, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before starting any new medication regimen. For some people the risks may outweigh the benefits; for others the opposite may be true. Ultimately it is a decision that should be made between you and your healthcare provider.
Not sleeping well (insomnia), or feeling very sleepy
If you’re taking antidepressants and having trouble sleeping, you’re not alone. A common side effect of these medications is insomnia, or difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Insomnia can be a minor annoyance or a major problem, depending on its severity.
There are a few things you can do to try to improve your sleep if you’re taking antidepressants. First, make sure you’re following your doctor’s instructions for taking the medication. Some antidepressants need to be taken in the morning, while others are best taken at night. If you’re not sure when to take your medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Second, establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Avoid naps during the day if possible. And create a relaxing bedtime routine that will help cue your body that it’s time to wind down for the night.
Third, avoid caffeine after lunchtime and limit alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day. Both of these substances can interfere with sleep by keeping you awake or making it difficult to stay asleep through the night.
Fourth, create an optimal sleep environment in your bedroom: darken the room as much as possible; use comfortable sheets and pillows; keep noise and light exposure low; and maintain a cool temperature in the room (around 65 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal). By making small changes like these in your bedroom environment, you can help encourage better sleep at night while taking antidepressants.
Headaches
There are two types of headaches that can be caused by antidepressants: tension-type headaches and migraines. Tension-type headaches are the more common type, and tend to feel like a tight band around the head. Migraines, on the other hand, tend to be more severe and can include symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
There are a few things that you can do if you are experiencing headaches as a result of your antidepressant medication. First, make sure that you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can often make headaches worse. Second, try taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for relief. If these do not work or if your headache is severe, contact your doctor or mental health professional right away for further guidance.