Antidepressants are not benign and have multiple side effects differing from patient to patient and to different signs of depression.
In some patients, the side effects are very mild while others may react to that same drug very badly.
Common side effects of tricyclic antidepressants
Constipation, Dry mouth, bladder disorders, dizziness, blurring of vision, sexual disorders, drowsiness, weight loss or gain and skin rash.
Side effects of SSRIS (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
These are the most common drugs used for the treatment where there are signs of depression.
Common side effects with SSRIs are nausea, headache, diarrhea and sexual problems. Sexual disorders include erectile problems, failure to reach orgasm and loss of libido.
Apart from these, researches are showing two more dangers of these drugs.
SSRIs are riskier when taken with other drugs. When SSRIs are administered along with MAOIs,then can prove fatal. Though SSRIs are considered to be safer in overdose, they can increase suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self harm.
Side effects with MAOIs
Some less harmful effects include headache, dry mouth, constipation, weight, insomnia, dizziness and sexual disorders like arousal problems or satisfaction problems. The REM sleep is almost totally suppressed by MAOIs. A transient phenomenon called REM rebound can be caused by sudden discontinuation of these drugs. In REM rebound, the person experiencies nightmares and vivid dreams. The patients who are taking MAOIs should not consume any OTC product or should not take any medicine without the advice of his physician because these drugs produce lethal complication when administered along with certain drugs.
Foods which contain excessive amount of tyramine like yeast extracts or mature cheese should not be taken with MAOIs because it can increase blood pressure to a dangerous level.