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Information about SSRI Antidepressants

From About.com

Updated: October 31, 2005

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Information on Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). These newer antidepressants have different types of side effects from the older tricyclic antidepressants:

  • Headache --this will usually go away
  • Nausea --even when it occurs, it is transient after each dose
  • Nervousness and insomnia (trouble falling asleep or waking often during the night) --these may occur during the first few weeks; dosage reductions or time will usually resolve them
  • Agitation (feeling jittery) --if this happens for the first time after the drug is taken and is more than transient, the doctor should be notified
  • Sexual problems --the doctor should be consulted if the problem is persistent or worrisome


Please talk to your doctor of pharmacist of you have these or any other symptoms after starting any new medication.

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