People with clinical depression are often prescribed SSRIs, which are a type of antidepressant. They work by boosting serotonin levels in the brain. However, it is advisable to familiarise oneself with the side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors to understand these medicines better and track progress.
What Are the Side Effects/Risks Associated with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI)?
SSRIs are often prescribed because they are effective for treating depression and anxiety. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and dangers of SSRI antidepressants. Making educated decisions regarding your health requires an understanding of these dangers.
Common Side Effects
When beginning your medication, you may suffer from the following side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
- Nausea: This symptom is mainly noticed within the first two weeks of initiation of treatment with these drugs.
- Headaches: This is another most common adverse effect of SSRIs.
- Dry Mouth: Some people may also notice a dryness in their mouth.
- Drowsiness or Insomnia: Some people might feel drowsier than they usually do when not on medication, while others might have problems falling asleep.
These side effects are not severe and tend to go away as your body gets used to the medicine.
Long-Term Risks
Although it is usually easy to deal with, the long-term effects of SSRI antidepressants tend to be more visible than their short-term consequences. For instance:
- Weight gain: As time goes by, SSRIs may contribute to an increase in body mass, thereby causing dilemmas for individuals who seek to stay slim.
- Sexual dysfunction: A decrease in sexual desire may result from reduced libido triggered by the administration of these drugs.
- Bone density loss: According to some research, taking SSRIs for an extended period might decrease one’s bone mass, hence making them more susceptible to fractures.
Mental Health Effects
Some people might suffer from averse SSRI risks, which may interfere with their mental status. For instance:
- Increased Anxiety: Those on SSRIs may initially feel more anxious before experiencing a sense of peace or calmness in other areas of their lives.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Suicidal thoughts can be activated by SSRIs, which may also indicate SSRI discontinuation syndrome.
These mental health risks are why patients must take frequent follow-ups when prescribed this medication. Keep a close eye on similar symptoms to track your health.
Discontinuation Syndrome
Sudden discontinuation of SSRIs can lead to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor discontinuation syndrome and may be exhibited as follows:
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Flu-like symptoms
- Trouble sleeping
It is necessary to gradually reduce the dosage of SSRIs under a doctor’s supervision to alleviate these discomforting effects.
Conclusion
SSRIs can significantly impact many lives, making it essential to understand their potential side effects and dangers. Always consult a physician when using these medications and ensure you have adequate insurance to cover any associated costs. Health insurance can help manage the typically high and prolonged costs of managing mental illness diagnoses. Adequate coverage will alleviate the burden of regular check-ups, consultations, and drug modifications, such as with SSRIs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.