For a lot of people, medication is an important part of treating depression, helping to stabilize their mood and carry on with daily life without getting overwhelmed. They’re an important part of improving overall well-being for a lot of people, but like most medications, they can come with side effects, especially in the early part of those treatments. While the side effects will vary depending on the type of medication (be it SSRIs, SPARIs, or otherwise), knowing what side effects to expect and how to manage them can make them a little easier to adjust to.
Gastrointestinal Issues
One of the most common early side effects is gastrointestinal discomfort, which can include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and an upset stomach. These are often only temporary, but it’s recommended to take medication with food, stay well hydrated, and to generally avoid eating rich or spicy meals when your body is adjusting to the medication.
Metabolic Changes
Many antidepressants have become well-known for their potential contributions to weight gain as well as shifts in appetite. They can affect your metabolism, which may result in changes in your diet and be frustrating, especially if the results impact your confidence or health goals. There are some options, like vilazodone, in which weight gain is a much rarer side-effect, which some people may not be aware of. In general, it’s important to be mindful of your eating habits, manage a balanced diet, and do regular physical activity when you’re starting new antidepressant medication.
Mood Changes
Although they’re designed to improve your mood, some people do experience unwanted emotional changes, especially at the start of treatment. This can include increased anxiety, irritability, or even feeling emotionally ‘flat’. These do tend to fade as your brain adjusts to the medication, but support from friends, family, or therapists can help manage these mood changes.
Sexual Health Impacts
Changes in your sexual health are another common side effect of antidepressants, including things like a reduced libido, difficulty becoming aroused, or issues performing sexually. It’s important to address these with your doctor, as although they might feel embarrassing, they’re not unexpected. Adjustments in dosage or switching medications may help, allowing you to maintain your relationship and own satisfaction without having to neglect your mental health.
Sleep Disturbances
A lot of people experience fatigue or changes in sleep patterns after starting a new medication. The fatigue can be managed primarily by ensuring you have a consistent sleep schedule and engage in light physical activity every day, if possible, to improve your energy levels. If your sleep is disrupted, creating a relaxing bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed may be beneficial. In some cases, adjusting the time of day you take your medication can make a difference.
There is a wide range of antidepressant options you can consider, so if one has side effects that you have trouble coping with, talk to your doctor about alternative options. However, it’s important to consult them before making any changes, as side effects can worsen if, for instance, you stop taking them abruptly.