Conditions · FAQ
What side effects should I watch for with depression medication?
Short answer
Depression medicines can cause nausea, headache, sleep changes, dry mouth, or sexual side effects, depending on the drug. Some effects may ease with time. Results vary. Contact your physician about bothersome symptoms. New suicidal thoughts, severe agitation, seizures, or signs of a serious allergic reaction need urgent attention.
Side effects depend on the medicine, dose, and your health history. SSRIs may cause nausea, diarrhea, headache, sleep changes, or sexual problems. Bupropion may cause dry mouth, trouble sleeping, or increased blood pressure. Some side effects may fade as your body adjusts. Results vary. Tell your physician if symptoms interfere with daily life.
Antidepressants carry a warning about increased suicidal thoughts or behavior in children, teens, and young adults, especially early in treatment or after dose changes. Anyone taking an antidepressant should watch for worsening mood, severe agitation, or unusual behavior. Contact your physician promptly about these changes. If you are in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Get emergency care for a seizure, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face or throat. Fever, confusion, heavy sweating, and stiff or twitching muscles may signal serotonin syndrome with certain medicines. This needs urgent care. Do not make routine dose changes on your own; ask your physician how to handle side effects safely.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.