Antidepressants are increasingly prescribed in the Netherlands. The number of people taking antidepressants is now over one million. The effect of antidepressants is not without controversy. Patients with severe depression in particular benefit from it. The side effects depend on the type of antidepressant. The reimbursement for antidepressants has now been removed from the basic package.
The effect of antidepressants
Antidepressants are medications that suppress the symptoms of depression. However, they are used for anxiety disorders such as social phobia. There are various theories about the effect of antidepressants. A popular theory is that the active substances in antidepressants ensure that the balance between certain substances and the brain is restored, thereby stabilizing complaints. However, other scientists dispute this theory.
Antidepressants influence the transmission of stimuli between nerve cells through neurotransmitters. Over time, the effect of the medicine is clearly visible. Patients regain their sense of life and interest in their environment.
Side effects of antidepressants
The effect of antidepressants, namely the reduction of the symptoms of depression, usually takes two to four weeks. During this period there is a chance of side effects. Afterwards, the side effects stabilize, although long-term side effects may also occur. About 19% of patients stop taking the medication in the first four weeks due to side effects.
Short term side effects
The side effects that occur depend on the drug chosen and the sensitivity, which varies per person. There are different types of antidepressants. A distinction is made between short-term side effects and side effects that occur in the long term. The following side effects may occur when taking antidepressants:
- Dry mouth
- Fear
- Gastrointestinal complaints
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Temporary increase in suicidality (because the improvement in mood is not yet immediately noticeable)
Weight gain
The above side effects are short-term and disappear or diminish over time. There are also long-term side effects, namely weight gain and sexual dysfunction. The Womens Health Initiative, a study, found that there were significantly more deaths and strokes in women who took antidepressants. They ran an additional 2% risk.
Are antidepressants effective?
Antidepressants are effective for severe forms of depression, although they are also prescribed for mild or mild forms. Taking antidepressants helps treat symptoms, but cannot be seen as a stand-alone treatment. It is important to pay attention to the cause of the depression. The medications are therefore often prescribed in combination with psychotherapy.