Side effects are the unwanted or unexpected consequences of taking a particular medication. They are also known as adverse effects or adverse drug reactions (ADRs). They are often listed in clinical trials information, but it is important to remember that every person reacts differently to medications. Even if you don’t experience a side effect from taking a specific drug, it doesn’t mean that others won’t. With that in mind, here’s a list of common side effects from some common medications.
Antidepressants can cause a wide range of side effects, but the most common tend to be insomnia, mood changes, sexual dysfunction, and nausea. More serious symptoms include thoughts of self-harm, hallucinations, and other effects that might require a change in medication or a brief stay in the hospital.Antidepressants are often used to treat anxiety disorders, and they tend to work very well in this situation. However, many of the side effects are a direct result of treating the anxiety. The most notable side effects of these medications are increased blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and sweating. Antidepressants can also cause weight loss in some patients, especially those who have never been overweight.
Antipsychotics are sometimes necessary to treat severe mental illness, but these drugs are notorious for causing numerous side effects, many of which are serious.The most common side effects of antipsychotics tend to be sedation and movement disorders. Dizziness, weakness, and tremors are all common, and sometimes the side effects are so severe that the patient must stop taking the drug altogether. Other common side effects include headaches, dry mouth, changes in appetite, and irregular heartbeat. The most dangerous side effect of antipsychotics is diabetes, which can be especially serious for people who live a sedentary lifestyle.
CNS depressants can cause a wide range of negative effects, including confusion, lethargy, and impaired judgment. They are commonly used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and depression, and they are often given when a condition cannot be treated with a different medication. The most dangerous side effects of CNS depressants are impaired ability to drive or operate heavy machinery, and decreased reflexes.It is important to understand that these drugs are meant for short-term use only; that does not mean they cannot have a lasting effect on your health. Some people have to remain on a continuous course of CNS depressants for the rest of their lives.
This category includes many different types of medication, but the danger associated with it is the same for each: All of these drugs can cause irregular heartbeat or sudden cardiac arrest if taken in high enough quantities. These drugs can be dangerous if they are taken with another medication, so always inform the doctor if you are already taking any other drugs.
Side effects are a normal part of any medication, but they are something that each person must learn to cope with. There is no easy solution to eliminating every side effect, but there are ways that you can reduce their impact on your life.Keep a written record of your side effects, and share this information with your doctor. Be sure to bring an open mind, and remember that every person reacts differently to medications.