Antidepressants have many different side effects, depending on which type you are taking. They can range from acute side effects like headaches or dizziness, to serious such as arrhythmia or even death. It is up to the patient to decide if the risks outweigh the benefits in treating the patient. The doctor does consider this himself before prescribing, but it is the patients responsibility to look into less risky alternatives. Here is a list of side effects for the most common antidepressants.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Nausea, diarrhea, weight gain or loss, anxiety, insomnia, headache, sweating, sexual problem (75% experience some kind of sexual difficulties), and bleeding. Serotonin Syndrome is a serious condition that can be fatal. It occurs when there is too much serotonin in the brain, usually due to SSRIs and other antidepressants or certain OTC medications being combined. Symptoms of this are sweating, high fever, high blood pressure, confusion, and shock.
TCAs (Tricyclic Antidepressants)
Dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, weight gain, constipation, and arrhythmia. Not prescribed to patients with heart problems or history of heart issues due to high risk of hear attack.
MAOIs ( Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
Dizziness, trembling, weight gain, insomnia, and high blood pressure. This medication also affects how the enzyme tyramine is broken down. Therefore, a build up of this enzyme can lead to high blood pressure and be fatal. A low tyramine diet must be followed while taking MAOIs. This includes avoiding foods such as: aged cheeses, cured meats, red wines, soy products, broad beans, and spoiled foods.
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