Side effects are very common to experience when taking psychotropic medication. Everyone responds differently to medication and has a different experience while taking these drugs. Your age, health, and the type of medication taken are all factors that contribute to the side effects that you might experience. Side effects typically dissipate after several days or weeks and can be managed successfully. Immediately report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor as your doctor can help manage and adjust your medications accordingly. Below is a list of common side effects for psychotropic medications.
Side Effects of Antidepressants:
Normally antidepressant side effects are relatively mild and dissipate within several days, however there are circumstances where side effects can be severe. Report any side effects to your treatment of depression to your medical professional immediately.
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Sleeplessness or drowsiness
• Agitation
• Sexual problems
• Dry Mouth
• Constipation
• Bladder issues
• Blurred vision
Side Effects of Antipsychotics:
Side effects of antipsychotic medications can range from mild to severe. Long-term use of typical antipsychotic medications may lead to a disorder called tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD causes uncontrollable muscle movements or spasms. This disorder is less common among individuals who take the newer atypical antipsychotic medications, however consult your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects.
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Weight gain
• Blurred vision
• Rapid heartbeat
• Rigidity
• Muscle spasms
• Restlessness
• Tremors
• Sensitivity to the sun
• Skin rashes
• Menstrual problems for women
Side Effects of Mood Stabilizers:
There are several different medications used to treat bipolar disorder and they can cause different side effects. (Reference the side effects of antidepressant medication and antipsychotic medications). Mood stabilizers such as lithium and anticonvulsant medications are more commonly used.
• Excessive thirst
• Loss of coordination
• Frequent urination
• Blackouts
• Seizures
• Slurred speech
• Irregular heartbeat
• Hallucinations
• Changes in vision
• Itching/rashes
• Swelling
• Changes in weight
• Nausea, stomach pain, vomiting
• Loss of appetite
Side Effects of Antianxiety Medications:
Anxiety is treated with antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and beta-blockers. The more common side effect for benzodiazepines is drowsiness. Other side effects can include:
• Upset stomach, nausea
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Confusion
• Nightmares
• Nervousness
• Lightheadedness
• Trouble sleeping
Common side effects from beta-blockers include:
• Fatigue
• Cold hands
• Dizziness
• Weakness
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