Human beings possess a gift that our A.I. counterparts will never know – the ability to experience and express emotions. Sometimes we feel sad and get struck by grief that may occur from time to time, but these emotions gradually fade away in a few days. For some in the population, however, the feelings will persist over a period and disrupt their daily routine. Major depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is something more than the expected sadness. It may lead to low energy, a loss of appetite, or a lack of interest in activities we once found joy and pleasure.
If you move forward without treating depression, it can cause severe health complications that place you at risk. Fortunately, effective treatments exist to bring joy back into your life. A combination of therapy, medication, diet, and exercise are all effective methods of treating depression. Estimates put the number of individuals struggling with depression at 16.2 million adults each year nationwide. Access to mental health treatment is crucial to ensure a healthy society.
One medication that’s shown to be effective in treating depression is known as escitalopram. Although it boasts positive side effects, it also has the potential to cause adverse effects. If you are prescribed escitalopram, or you’ve considered it for treatment, you must understand there is a potential for adverse effects.
Escitalopram Common Side Effects
Escitalopram has shown to be extremely effective while treating depression, but it may also cause moderate-to-severe side effects. Since we all possess brain chemistry, medicine reactions vary from one person to another. With that said, it’s challenging to say how your body will react. The most common of these reactions, however, include:
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Ejaculatory disorder
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Decreased libido
- Dizziness
- Delayed ejaculation
- Diaphoresis
- Dyspepsia
Although antidepressants are designed to treat depression, in some cases, individuals have reported suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Adolescents and young adults with major depressive disorder are especially prone to suicidal tendencies.
It’s highly unlikely you will experience all of the side effects listed above, and you may need medical attention if some of them do occur. Most of those who use escitalopram will not experience a single effect, but for those who do, you must reach out to your doctor immediately. In rare cases, some of the following can occur. These include:
- Convulsions
- Coma
- Confusion
- Decreased urine output
- Dizziness
- Increased thirst
- Muscle pain or cramps
- Migraine headache
- Shortness of breath
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Swelling of the face, hands, or ankles
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Severe nausea or vomiting
While you could experience some effects and not require medical attention, some of the other effects will gradually disappear over time as your body acclimates to the new medication.
Your doctor will explain to you how you can reduce or prevent these effects from occurring.
If you ever feel uncomfortable, you should immediately contact the doctor to determine your next move.
Only you have the capability of letting the doctor know how you feel, which will give them an idea of how to treat you.
Other side effects that you might experience include:
- Dry mouth
- Ejaculation delay
- Trouble sleeping
- Heartburn
- Gas in the stomach
- Loss in sexual drive, ability, desire, or performance
- Erectile dysfunction
