What side effects might be expected after starting an antidepressant medication for the first time?

Depending on what category of antidepressant is prescribed, most often SSRIs are the first line treatment option because their side effect profile is optimal. The most common side effects of SSRI antidepressants may include: drowsiness, weight gain, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, nausea, and rash. Many of these effects are often transient and will remit after a few weeks of consistent medication adherence. (These side effects vary if a different type of antidepressant is prescribed.)

There is a warning for ages up to 24 whereby the FDA includes a black box label warning that antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal ideation and behavior in children and adolescents. Patients should monitor for and report any increased​ suicidal thinking to their providers after starting/changing antidepressant medications.

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