Possible side effects and cautions

All SSRIs are thought to work in much the same way. They generally can cause many of the same side effects. But some people have no side effects. Many side effects may go away after the first few weeks of treatment. Some side effects may lead you and your healthcare professional to try a different medicine.

If one SSRI doesn't work well for you, a different one may work better. This is because SSRIs differ in how well they block serotonin reuptake and in how quickly they break down and are cleared from the body.

Possible side effects of SSRIs may include:

• Upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Sweating.
• Headache.
• Sleepiness or trouble sleeping.
• Dry mouth.
• Nervousness, anxiety or restlessness.
• Shakiness.
• Sexual problems, such as lessened sexual desire, trouble reaching orgasm or trouble getting and keeping an erection.
• Changes in appetite, leading to weight loss or weight gain.

Taking your medicine with food may lessen the risk of an upset stomach. Also, so long as your medicine doesn't keep you from sleeping, taking it at bedtime may lessen an upset stomach.

The antidepressant that is best for you depends on several factors, such as your symptoms and any other health conditions you may have. Ask your healthcare professional and pharmacist about the side effects that are most common for the SSRI prescribed for you. Also read the patient medicine guide that comes with the prescription.