Mental health · FAQ
What side effects can Anxiety & depression medication cause?
Short answer
Sertraline and escitalopram for Anxiety & depression can cause nausea, headache, sleep changes, sweating, and sexual side effects. Serious reactions are less common but need prompt care. Contact your physician about new or worsening symptoms. If you have suicidal thoughts or are in crisis, call or text 988; call 911 for immediate danger.
Sertraline and escitalopram can cause nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, sweating, tiredness, and changes in sleep. They can also affect sexual desire, orgasm, or erections. Some side effects may ease as your body adjusts. Results vary. Tell your prescribing physician if side effects are strong, last, or affect daily life.
Antidepressants can increase suicidal thoughts or behavior in some children, teens, and young adults, especially early in treatment or after dose changes. People of any age should report new agitation, worsening mood, unusual behavior, or thoughts of self-harm right away. If you are in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call 911 for immediate danger.
Seek urgent care for fever with confusion, severe muscle stiffness, a fast heartbeat, or shaking. These can be signs of serotonin syndrome. Severe allergic reactions, seizures, fainting, unusual bleeding, or a very elevated mood also need prompt medical attention. Do not change your dose on your own to manage side effects.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.