Long-term side effects of newer-generation antidepressants: SSRIS, venlafaxine, nefazodone, bupropion, and mirtazapine
by
Masand PS, Gupta S.
Department of Psychiatry,
Duke University Medical Center,
Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
masan001@mc.duke.edu
Ann Clin Psychiatry 2002 Sep;14(3):175-82

ABSTRACT

Anecdotal reports have suggested that the long-term use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be associated with significant weight gain, sexual dysfunction, drug interactions, and discontinuation symptoms. Are these effects inevitable or can they be managed effectively with the appropriate interventions? In reviewing published, controlled clinical trials, it has been noted that many depressed patients experience weight gain during remission with or without treatment. Most antidepressants appear to produce a 3- to 4-kg weight gain after 6-12 months of therapy, which may be managed with nutritional counseling and exercise. The exception is mirtazapine, which appears to be associated with significant weight gain early in therapy. Antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction is also common but may be managed with the addition of an antidote or substitution. Drug interactions are most common with fluvoxamine, nefazodone, and fluoxetine because these agents are more likely to affect the metabolism of commonly prescribed medications. It may be possible to prevent discontinuation symptoms with a cross taper to another antidepressant or by slowly tapering the antidepressant.

SSRIs
Options
SSRI toxicology
Behavioural toxicity
Trazodone (Serzone)
Venlafaxine (Effexor)
Bupropion (Welbutrin)
Mirtazapine (Remeron)
Antidepressant metabolism
Antidepressants and liver injury
Antidepressants: adverse effects
Are 'broad spectrum' antidepressants best?

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