Scientists have ranked how common antidepressants impact physical health.
Their findings show dramatic differences in side effects covering weight, heart rate and blood pressure. The effects can begin within the first eight weeks of use.
Researchers from King’s College London and University of Oxford analysed 30 antidepressant medications. They drew on data from over 58,500 patients.
They found that the choice of antidepressant could lead to:
- A 4 kg (8.8 lb) difference in weight
- A 21-beats-per-minute swing in heart rate
- A marked variation in blood pressure
Dr Atheeshaan Arumuham of King’s College London said, “For the first time, we can clearly see that no two antidepressants are built the same.”
The study signals a shift away from one-size-fits-all prescribing. Treatment must now match the patient’s body and condition.
Key findings
- Weight: Patients on maprotiline gained ~2 kg, while those on agomelatine lost ~2.4 kg.
- Heart rate: Nortriptyline increased heart rate by ~14 bpm; fluvoxamine reduced it by ~8 bpm.
- Blood pressure: Some drugs differed by up to 11 mmHg in effect.
Although these changes are short-term, researchers warn the long-term clinical impact could be considerable.
Persistent effects on weight, heart rate or blood pressure may raise risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke or heart attack over time.
