MCM, or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Medications are often prescribed to manage MCM symptoms, but like any medication, they can have side effects. It’s important to understand the potential side effects of MCM medications so that you can make informed decisions about your treatment plan.
There are several classes of medications that are commonly used to manage MCM, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), atypical antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Each class of medication has its own set of potential side effects, which we will discuss below.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):
SSRIs are one of the most commonly prescribed classes of antidepressants. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help regulate mood. Some common SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro).
The most common side effects of SSRIs include:
Nausea: This is one of the most common side effects of SSRIs, especially in the first few weeks of treatment. Taking the medication with food can help reduce nausea.
Headaches: Some people may experience headaches while taking SSRIs. This side effect usually goes away on its own after a few weeks.
Insomnia: SSRIs can cause difficulty sleeping, especially if taken in the evening. Taking the medication in the morning can help reduce this side effect.
Sexual dysfunction: SSRIs can cause a decrease in libido and difficulty achieving orgasm. This side effect can be particularly distressing for some people.
Weight gain: Some people may experience weight gain while taking SSRIs. This side effect can be managed through diet and exercise.
Dry mouth: SSRIs can cause dry mouth, which can be managed with sugar-free gum or candy.
Sweating: Some people may experience excessive sweating while taking SSRIs, particularly at night.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs):
SNRIs are another class of antidepressants that work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Some common SNRIs include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
The most common side effects of SNRIs include:
Nausea: Like SSRIs, SNRIs can cause nausea, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.
Headaches: Some people may experience headaches while taking SNRIs.
Insomnia: SNRIs can cause difficulty sleeping, especially if taken in the evening.
Sexual dysfunction: SNRIs can cause a decrease in libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.
Sweating: Some people may experience excessive sweating while taking SNRIs.
Dry mouth: SNRIs can cause dry mouth, which can be managed with sugar-free gum or candy.
Constipation: SNRIs can cause constipation, which can be managed with dietary changes and increased fluid intake.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs):
TCAs are an older class of antidepressants that are not used as frequently as SSRIs or SNRIs. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Some common TCAs include amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor).
The most common side effects of TCAs include:
Dry mouth: TCAs can cause dry mouth, which can be managed with sugar-free gum or candy.
Constipation: TCAs can cause constipation, which can be managed with dietary changes and increased fluid intake.
Blurred vision: TCAs can cause blurred vision, particularly at higher doses.
Dizziness: TCAs can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly.
Weight gain: Some people may experience weight gain while taking TCAs.
Sexual dysfunction: TCAs can cause a decrease in libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.
Urinary retention: TCAs can cause difficulty urinating, particularly in men with enlarged prostates.
Atypical Antidepressants:
Atypical antidepressants are a newer class of antidepressants that do not fit into any of the other categories. Some common atypical antidepressants include bupropion (Wellbutrin) and mirtazapine (Remeron).
The most common side effects of atypical antidepressants include:
Nausea: Atypical antidepressants can cause nausea, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.
Headaches: Some people may experience headaches while taking atypical antidepressants.
Insomnia: Atypical antidepressants can cause difficulty sleeping, especially if taken in the evening.
Weight gain: Some people may experience weight gain while taking atypical antidepressants.
Sexual dysfunction: Atypical antidepressants can cause a decrease in libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.
Dry mouth: Atypical antidepressants can cause dry mouth, which can be managed with sugar-free gum or candy.
Dizziness: Atypical antidepressants can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs):
MAOIs are an older class of antidepressants that are not used as frequently as other antidepressants. They work by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down serotonin and norepinephrine. Some common MAOIs include phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate).
The most common side effects of MAOIs include:
Hypertensive crisis: MAOIs can cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure if certain foods or medications are consumed. It’s important to follow a strict diet and avoid certain medications while taking MAOIs.
Dry mouth: MAOIs can cause dry mouth, which can be managed with sugar-free gum or candy.
Constipation: MAOIs can cause constipation, which can be managed with dietary changes and increased fluid intake.
Sexual dysfunction: MAOIs can cause a decrease in libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.
Dizziness: MAOIs can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly.
Insomnia: MAOIs can cause difficulty sleeping, especially if taken in the evening.
Weight gain: Some people may experience weight gain while taking MAOIs.
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience side effects while taking MCM medications. Additionally, some side effects may subside over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if you experience any side effects that are bothersome or interfere with your daily life, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend ways to manage your symptoms.
