Medication side effects

Question 1

What do Psychotropics do?

Answer 1

• Blunt or control symptoms of MH distress and take the edge of extreme states
• they do not address the underlying cause of mental distress
• dampens the thinking processes and emotions because they have a generalised inhibiting effect

Question 2

What are the common side effects of antidepressants ?

Answer 2

• Dry mouth
• blurred vision,
• restlessness
• tremor
• headache
• insomnia
• constipation
• increased suicidal thinking
• weight gain
• sexual problems
• hyponatreamia
• SSRIs cause GI bleeding

Question 3

What are some withdrawal effects experienced when going off antidepressants/

Answer 3

Flu-like symptoms (chills, sweating, headache, nausea),
Insomnia
Shock-like sensations
Headache
Sweats
Irritability
Anxiety
Agitation
Tearfulness
Vivid dreams.

Question 4

Important considerations when going off antidepressants?

Answer 4

Not abruptly ceasing medication
Slow tapering
The longer a person has taken antidepressants the more likely they are to experience withdrawal
Being prepared for uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal
Seek family/friend/professional support
Maintain adequate nutrition and hydration

Question 5

Common Side effects of antipsychotic medication>

Answer 5

• Anticholinergic effects - dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation,
• sedation
• postural hypotension
• weight gain
• sexual dysfunction