How do antidepressants work and what side effects can occur?
May 11, 2024 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Jan Voigt
Dear Doctor,
My name is Andreas Germer and I have been suffering from severe mood swings, lack of motivation, and sleep disturbances for some time now. My primary care physician has prescribed me antidepressants to help me cope with my depressive symptoms. However, I am concerned as I am not exactly sure how these medications work and what side effects may occur.
I have heard that antidepressants affect the serotonin and noradrenaline levels in the brain to improve communication between nerve cells, thus alleviating depressive symptoms. However, I am unsure if this mechanism of action will work for me and if I can expect positive changes.
Furthermore, I have concerns about potential side effects. I have heard that antidepressants can have various undesirable effects such as nausea, sleep disturbances, weight gain, or sexual dysfunction. I wonder if these side effects could occur in my case and how I should deal with them.
Could you please explain to me how antidepressants work and what side effects I can expect? Are there ways to minimize or treat these side effects? I would like to learn more about treatment with antidepressants to reduce my worries and fears and better prepare for my therapy.
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Andreas Germer
Dear Andreas Germer,
I would like to explain to you in detail how antidepressants work and what side effects may occur to help you with your therapy. Antidepressants are medications used to treat depression. They affect the concentration of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain to improve communication between nerve cells.
The exact mechanism of action of antidepressants is complex and varies depending on the type of medication. In general, antidepressants can help stabilize mood, reduce lethargy, and improve sleep disturbances. It is important to note that the full effect of antidepressants often takes several weeks to occur. Therefore, patience and persistence in taking these medications are important.
As for side effects, antidepressants can indeed have various undesirable effects. These may include nausea, sleep disturbances, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, as well as headaches, dizziness, or dry mouth. It is important to know that not every patient will experience all of these side effects and that they are usually temporary.
To cope with potential side effects, it is advisable to discuss your concerns with your doctor. Your doctor can help you find the right dosage and the appropriate antidepressant for your individual needs. It may also be helpful to take the medication with food to reduce stomach discomfort, or to treat certain side effects with additional medications.
It is important to take antidepressants regularly and not discontinue them without consulting your doctor to avoid the risk of withdrawal symptoms. If you notice side effects or feel unwell, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. Your doctor can help you adjust the therapy or consider alternative treatment options.
I hope that this information answers your questions and helps you better prepare for your treatment with antidepressants. If you have any further questions or need assistance, I am at your disposal.
Best regards,
Jan Voigt
