What is a common side effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's)?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, and they help by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain. A common side effect associated with SSRIs is headaches. This can occur due to various reasons, including changes in serotonin levels affecting vascular tone or alterations in neurotransmitter systems that influence pain perception.

Headaches can manifest at the onset of treatment or after dosage adjustments as the body adapts to the medication. Understanding this side effect is crucial for both clinicians and patients, as it can impact adherence to the medication regimen. By monitoring and managing side effects like headaches, clinicians can help improve the overall treatment experience and outcomes for their patients.

While heart palpitations, weight loss, and fatigue may occasionally occur with SSRIs, they are not as commonly reported as headaches. This distinction highlights the significance of headache as a prevalent side effect in the patient population taking SSRIs.