Antidepressants are prevalent prescription medications. For many people, antidepressants make it easier to tackle conditions like depression, and they can do a lot of good. However, there are side effects to consider. Exploring the long term side effects of antidepressants reveals that using these drugs can cause other problems. Of course, it’s essential to work with your doctor to balance the benefits and drawbacks of any medication.
The Physical Impact of Using Antidepressants Long Term
When most people think of antidepressants, they focus on the psychological effects of the drug. After all, depression is usually thought of as a mental condition rather than a physical one. However, many of the long term side effects of antidepressants are physical.
Right away, users might notice that antidepressants impact their libido. It is normal to see sex drive drop rapidly while using certain types of antidepressants. Long term use of antidepressants continues the trend and can reduce sexual pleasure for some people.
Antidepressants can also reduce your energy levels and increase your appetite. For some people, this combination leads to weight gain. There may also be an increased risk of developing diabetes as a result of using antidepressants for an extended period.
It is also important to recognize that antidepressants aren’t always compatible with other medications. For example, using antidepressants can lead to reduced blood clotting. After using antidepressants for several months or years, you might also experience rashes, headaches, or joint pain. Digestive distress isn’t common, but it is a potential side effect of prolonged antidepressant use.
The Psychological Impact of Using Antidepressants Long Term
Using antidepressants for an extended period can also cause a number of psychological side effects. Some users say that they feel emotionally numb, or that they can’t get excited about anything. Others may report thoughts of suicide.
Other people say that over time, the effectiveness of certain antidepressants feels reduced. This is something that every individual will have to discuss with their physician. It is possible that some drugs become less effective over time as tolerance rises.
Finally, the long term use of antidepressants can lead to what is known as serotonin syndrome. Many antidepressants work by reusing serotonin in the brain. If you are also trying to take supplements to boost serotonin, this can lead to a condition where there is too much serotonin. Finding the right balance of serotonin can be tricky.
Overcoming the Long Term Side Effects of Antidepressants
If you’re looking for Houston serotonin syndrome options, then consider PACE Mental Health. Whether you’re battling with depression or you’re concerned about your serotonin levels, help is available. At PACE Mental Health, you can expect all of the following:
- Full psychiatric evaluation at intake
- Medication therapy management as needed
- Short wait times
- Flexible appointments
- Support available for a wide range of mental health conditions
The long term side effects of antidepressants can be considerable. Whether you have too much serotonin or not enough, it is worth finding help. At PACE Mental Health in Houston, Texas, you can overcome depression and find the right balance of medication. Call 866.971.8423 to improve your mental health today.
