🚨 Important Update on Antidepressants 🚨
New research from King’s College London reveals that some popular antidepressants, including sertraline and citalopram, may impact weight and blood pressure. If you’re on these meds, here’s what you need to know:
🔄 Weight Changes: In just the first two months of treatment, patients using different antidepressants might see a weight change ranging from a 2.5kg (5.5lbs) drop to a 2kg (4.5lbs) gain.
💓 Heart and Blood Pressure: The study, analysing over 58,000 individuals, showed some medications also affect heart rate and blood pressure. Sertraline was linked with weight loss and a slight reduction in heart rate but a small rise in blood pressure. Meanwhile, amitriptyline can cause an increase in both weight and heart rate.
🩺 Why It Matters: Antidepressants remain among the most prescribed medications. While they provide essential help to many, it’s crucial to tailor treatment plans to individual needs. The researchers stress the importance of discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider rather than stopping meds suddenly.
🏥 The Bigger Picture: Experts are calling for more personalised medical guidance and routine physical checks when using antidepressants. This approach will ensure a balance in managing mental health without compromising physical wellbeing.
💬 Call to Action: If you’re experiencing side effects, it’s perfectly okay to discuss these with your doctor. Your health plan should truly fit your unique needs, with shared decision making at the heart of care.
Remember, these findings don’t mean to alarm but to inform. The goal is to empower you with knowledge so you can make the best decisions jointly with your healthcare provider. Stay informed, stay healthy! 💪✨