Side Effects
Some individuals may experience negative side effects after beginning pharmacotherapy (i.e. drug therapy). While often frustrating and sometimes worrisome, these symptoms are typically temporary and not detrimental. Individuals should always report any side effects they experience to their doctor immediately.
Common side effects associated with tricyclics, and ways to combat them include:
1. Dry mouth
- a. Drink sips of water throughout the day, chew sugarless gum, and clean your teeth daily
2. Constipation
- a. Eat bran cereals, prunes, fruit, and vegetables as part of your daily diet
3. Bladder problems
- a. Emptying the bladder may be difficult and the urine stream may not be as strong as usual; alert your doctor is experiencing any difficulty or pain
4. Sexual problems
- a. Sexual functioning may change; if bothersome, alert your doctor to discuss options
5. Blurred vision
- a. This is a temporary side effect and usually does not require new glasses or contact prescription
6. Dizziness
- a. Rise slowly from the bed or chair as necessary
7. Drowsiness during the day
- a. This side effect is usually temporary, however when experiencing drowsiness the individual should refrain from driving or operating heavy equipment. Antidepressants with strong sedative effects are typically taken before bed to aid with sleep and minimize daytime drowsiness
The newer antidepressants, such as SSRI’s have associated side effects including:
1. Headache
- a. Typically temporary
- a. Occurs fleetingly after each dose and then typically remits
- a. Includes difficulty falling asleep or frequently waking during the night
b. May occur during the initial weeks of treatment and reducing the dosage is typically effective
- a. Usually experienced as “jittery”
b. Notify your doctor if this feeling occurs consistently after the drug is first taken
- a. Consult your doctor if these effects are consistent and troublesome