Main Research Findings

Antidepressants are effective in treating depression, but they can have side effects. One study found that the severity of side effects from antidepressants can be observed as early as 4 days after treatment starts and changes over the course of treatment. 2

A higher severity of side effects was associated with poorer treatment outcomes. 2 Additionally, the severity of antidepressant side effects was not related to the type of treatment or the presence of anxiety symptoms. 2

Another study found that combining Western medicine with traditional Chinese medicine was effective in treating persistent depression. 3 This combination therapy may have fewer side effects and be more effective than Western medicine alone. 3

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective treatment for depression, but it can have cognitive side effects. 1 However, the cognitive effects of ECT vary greatly among individuals and are not related to the type of depression symptoms or brain imaging findings. 1

Reasons for Side Effects

Side effects of antidepressants occur because the drugs affect the way neurotransmitters work in the brain. 2 Neurotransmitters regulate important brain functions such as mood, sleep, appetite, and concentration. 2 Antidepressants improve depressive symptoms by adjusting the balance of these neurotransmitters. 2 However, changes in the balance of neurotransmitters can lead to side effects. 2

Common Side Effects

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are frequently reported side effects of antidepressants. 2 These side effects are more common at the beginning of treatment, especially during the first few weeks. 2 Nausea and vomiting can be reduced by eating before taking the medication or drinking fluids slowly after taking the medication. 2

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Antidepressants can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea. 2 These symptoms can be reduced by improving lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise. 2

Drowsiness

Antidepressants can cause side effects such as drowsiness and fatigue. 2 These symptoms are more common at the beginning of treatment, especially during the first few weeks. 2 Drowsiness and fatigue can be reduced by adjusting the time of day the medication is taken or by improving sleep quality. 2

Sexual Dysfunction

Antidepressants can cause sexual dysfunction. 2 These symptoms vary depending on the type and dosage of the antidepressant. 2 Sexual dysfunction can be reduced by changing the type of antidepressant or adjusting the dosage. 2

Weight Gain

Antidepressants can cause weight gain. 2 These symptoms vary depending on the type and dosage of the antidepressant. 2 Weight gain can be reduced by improving lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise. 2

Anxiety

Antidepressants can cause an increase in anxiety. 2 These symptoms are more common at the beginning of treatment, especially during the first few weeks. 2 Anxiety can be reduced by adjusting the time of day the medication is taken or by incorporating relaxing activities. 2

Side Effects Management

Nausea and Vomiting

These side effects can be reduced by eating before taking the medication or drinking fluids slowly after taking the medication. 2

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

These symptoms can be reduced by improving lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise. 2

Drowsiness

These side effects can be reduced by adjusting the time of day the medication is taken or by improving sleep quality. 2

Sexual Dysfunction

These side effects can be reduced by changing the type of antidepressant or adjusting the dosage. 2

Weight Gain

These side effects can be reduced by improving lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise. 2

Anxiety

These side effects can be reduced by adjusting the time of day the medication is taken or by incorporating relaxing activities. 2

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities Between Studies

All three studies indicated that antidepressants are effective in treating depression. 2 3 1

Differences Between Studies

Each of the three studies focused on different types of antidepressants. 2 3 1 The research objectives also varied. 2 3 1

Important Considerations for Real-World Application

Before starting antidepressants, it is important to consult with a doctor to choose the right medication and understand the risks of side effects. 2 After starting treatment, be aware of any side effects and consult with your doctor if needed. 2 Not everyone experiences side effects. 2 It is crucial to continue treatment and not stop prematurely if side effects occur. 2 By continuing appropriate treatment in consultation with your doctor, you can improve your depressive symptoms. 2

Current Limitations of Research

Research on the side effects of antidepressants is still insufficient. 2 Future research involving larger patient groups and long-term observations is expected to provide more detailed information on the side effects of antidepressants. 2

Future Research Directions

The development of new treatments to reduce the side effects of antidepressants is needed. 2 Research is also needed to understand the individual differences in side effects by studying how factors such as genetics and lifestyle habits influence them. 2

Conclusion

Antidepressants are effective in treating depression, but they can have side effects. 2 3 1 The higher the severity of side effects, the greater the tendency towards poorer treatment outcomes. 2 Before starting antidepressants, it is important to consult with a doctor to choose the right medication and understand the risks of side effects. 2 After starting treatment, be aware of any side effects and consult with your doctor if needed. 2