Antidepressants Vary in Physical Side Effects, UK Study Reveals
London, UK – New research from King’s College London (KCL) and the University of Oxford has revealed significant differences in the physical side effects associated with commonly prescribed antidepressants. The study, published today, found variations in heart rate and blood pressure depending on the specific medication, highlighting the need for more personalized treatment approaches.
Researchers discovered a 21-beat-a-minute difference in heart rate between individuals taking fluvoxamine and those on nortriptyline. Additionally, an 11 mmHg difference in blood pressure was observed between patients prescribed nortriptyline versus doxepin.
“Antidepressants are among the most widely used medicines in the world,” said Dr. Toby Pillinger, a clinical lecturer at KCL.”While many people benefit from them,these drugs are not identical – some can lead to meaningful changes in weight,heart rate and blood pressure in a relatively short period.”
The study indicated that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants, generally exhibited fewer physical side effects. However, the findings suggest closer physical health monitoring may be beneficial for patients taking other types of antidepressants.
“Our findings show that SSRIs… tend to have fewer physical side-effects, which is reassuring. But for others,closer physical health monitoring may be warranted,” Dr. Pillinger explained.”The aim isn’t to deter use but to empower patients and clinicians to make informed choices and to encourage personalised care.”
Professor Andrea Cipriani of the university of Oxford emphasized the importance of shared decision-making between clinicians and patients. “Our results emphasise the importance of shared decision making, the collaborative process through which patients are supported by the clinicians to reach a decision about their treatment, bringing together their preferences, personal circumstances, goals, values, and beliefs. This should be the way forward in the NHS and globally.”
The research underscores the need to move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach to antidepressant treatment and prioritize individualized care based on a patient’s specific health profile and preferences.
