Antidepressants’ Hidden Side Effect: Excessive Sweating
Millions may not realize their medication could be the reason for hyperhidrosis.
For many, antidepressants offer a lifeline, but they may also come with an unwelcome side effect: excessive sweating. Especially during the summer, this can be particularly bothersome, and those taking certain medications may not realize the connection.
SSRIs and SNRIs Disrupt Temperature Regulation
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Zoloft and Prozac, along with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Effexor and Cymbalta, can trigger hyperhidrosis. According to Dr. Angela Downey, a family physician, these medications impact the hypothalamus, the brain’s thermostat.
Dr. Downey explained, Think of serotonin like an orchestra conductor who has suddenly turned up the volume on your internal HVAC system. It will sometimes overcorrect and can lead to unexpected sweating, especially at night or in warm weather.
SSRIs increase serotonin levels in the brain, while SNRIs boost both serotonin and norepinephrine. These drugs can stimulate the body’s temperature regulation center, leading it to believe the body is warmer than it is. As a result, sweat glands produce more perspiration to cool down the body.
Prevalence and Impact
Of the roughly 32 million Americans who take antidepressants, around 21 percent experience excessive sweating, reports the International Hyperhidrosis Society. According to a recent study, excessive sweating can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety in social situations (National Institutes of Health).
Possible Solutions
If you are experiencing this side effect, Dr. Ashwini Nadkarni, a psychiatrist at Mass General Brigham, advises discussing options with your doctor, including switching to a different antidepressant. Vortioxetine is one example of a medication that may be less likely to cause sweating.
Dr. Nadkarni suggests, To deal with this, people can discuss options with their treating physician… Non-pharmacological strategies include wearing loose attire with breathable fabrics, keeping cool with a fan, and staying hydrated during the day.
Moreover, Dr. Olalekan Otulana, a general practitioner, notes that this side effect can be more noticeable in the summer when baseline sweating is already higher. He also emphasizes that this can affect confidence at work or in social situations.
Seeking Medical Advice
Dr. Uma Darji, a family medicine physician, advises patients that this is a real side effect and not something they’re imagining. If the sweating becomes unbearable, don’t stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor.
Dr. Darji says, Make sure you speak to your doctor about it. We can adjust the dose, switch to a different medication, or add a small dose of another medication to help manage the sweating.
For many individuals, managing excessive sweating is a worthwhile trade-off for the emotional stability that antidepressants provide. However, discussing this side effect with a healthcare provider can help explore potential solutions and improve overall quality of life.
