Antidepressant drugs are used to treat depression and several other mental disorders. This drug can help relieve symptoms of depression such as prolonged feelings of sadness, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities that are usually considered fun.
Antidepressant drugs must be used carefully. Side effects, interactions with other drugs, as well as potential dependence and symptoms of drug break-up may occur. Consult with medical personnel to get the right dose.
Side Effects Consumption Of Antidepressant Drugs
Although effective in dealing with symptoms of depression, antidepressant drugs should not be consumed carelessly. Inaccurate use can cause side effects both physically and psychologically that can be harmful.
Physical side effects
Antidepressants can cause various physical side effects, especially in the early stages of drug use. Usually, these side effects will gradually decrease after the body adapts.
Here are some common physical side effects:
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sleep disorders
Also read: Physical Signs When Men Experiencing Depression
Psychological side effects
In addition to physical side effects, the consumption of antidepressant drugs can also cause psychological side effects:
- Anxiety and anxiety
- The emergence of suicide thoughts
- Mood swings
- Emotions become blunt (unable to feel emotions)
Sexual side effects
One of the side effects of taking antidepressant drugs that are often overlooked is the impact on sexual function. Some people have experienced a decrease in libido, Erectile dysfunction, and difficulty reaching orgasm after taking antidepressant drugs.
The long-term use of antidepressant drugs, especially without a doctor's supervision, can increase the risk of physical dependence. In addition, sudden drug cessation can cause break-up syndrome, which is characterized by symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, anxiety, and confusion.
Also read: Unlike Women, These Are Signs Of Depression In Men
How To Avoid Antidepressant Side Effects
The use of antidepressant drugs requires caution to avoid possible side effects. Consult with the doctor before and during the use of this drug, and make regular visits to monitor the development of side effects and the effectiveness of treatment.
In addition, there are several things that can be done to avoid antidepressant side effects, including:
- Following the schedule for taking medication according to what the doctor recommends
- Do not add or reduce doses without the doctor's approval
- Paying attention to special instructions in taking antidepressant drugs
- Do not stop taking drugs suddenly without consulting a doctor first
- Pay attention to the symptoms of side effects that may arise and report them to the doctor
- Informing a doctor if you take another drug
- Changing a healthy lifestyle such as getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, and exercising regularly
If you experience side effects during taking antidepressant drugs, consult a doctor immediately. You can also use health consultation services on the Ai Care application by downloading it on App Store or Play Store.
Want to know information about other diseases? Check here, well!
- dr Nadia Opmalina
Cleveland Clinic (2023). Antidepressants. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-antidepressants-depression-medication
Harvard Medical School (2021). What are the real risks of antidepressants?. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/what-are-the-real-risks-of-antidepressants
Health Direct (2023). Antidepressants. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antidepressants
Rachel Reiff Ellis (2023). What Are the Side Effects of Antidepressants?. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/depression/side-effects-antidepressants