Antidepressant could cause significant heart and weight gain risks
Millions of people taking antidepressants may be at increased risk of weight gain, hypertension and heart problems, according to a major new review.
Researchers at King’s College London analyzed data from 58,500 patients taking 30 different antidepressants and found significant differences in their physical side effects, particularly in relation to cardiovascular health.
The study, published in The Lancet, found that amitriptyline, one of the most commonly prescribed tricyclic antidepressants, led to weight gain in almost half of patients, an average increase in heart rate of 9 bpm and a 5 mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure. After just eight weeks, it increased the risk of stroke by 5 percent and overall mortality by almost 10 percent.
The senior author of the study, Dr. Toby Pillinger said: “Antidepressants are among the most widely used drugs in the world.
“While many people benefit from these, some can lead to meaningful changes in weight, heart rate, and blood pressure in a relatively short period of time.”
Other drugs linked to increased cardiovascular risk included nortriptyline, which increased heart rate by 13 beats per minute, and mirtazapine, which caused significant weight gain.
In comparison, patients taking citalopram, a common SSRI, lost an average of 0.65 kg and saw modest improvements in blood pressure and heart rate.
Experts say the findings highlight the need for routine health checks for long-term users of antidepressants, especially given that 8.8 million people in the UK are now using them.
From the University of Bath, Dr. Prada Nishtala warned that real-world risks could be “much higher” because many patients use these medications for months or years.
Experts stressed that patients should not stop taking antidepressants without medical advice, while the study’s authors called for “shared decision-making” on prescriptions and greater awareness of physical side effects.
The MHRA’s chief security officer, Dr. Alison Cave reassured patients that medicine leaflets “clearly state all known side effects” and encouraged anyone with concerns to consult their doctor or report symptoms through the Yellow Card scheme.
