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What are the side effects of SSRIs?

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressant medications. They include citalopram (brand name Celexa), paroxetine (>Paxil), fluoxetine (>Prozac and Sarafem), escitalopram (Lexapro), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and sertraline (>Zoloft). Doctors also prescribe SSRIs to treat people with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, certain types of nerve pain, and severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

SSRIs are generally very well tolerated. Their most common side effects include trouble sleeping, nausea, and dizziness. Less common side effects include headache, drowsiness, less sex drive, and delayed ejaculation. If you have trouble sleeping, take your SSRI in the morning. Take it at bedtime if it makes you drowsy. To relieve nausea or stomach discomfort, take it with food. If you experience problems with sexual function, your doctor may try lowering the dose, adding another medicine, or switching to a different antidepressant. If any side effects you experience become bothersome or begin to worsen, be sure to notify your doctor.

Source
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006.
The American Psychiatric Press Textbook of Psychopharmacology. American Psychiatric Press Inc., 1998.
Sarafem Product Information. Warner Chilcott. Last accessed 11/2006.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.

This answered prepared 8/23/2000.
This information updated 11/22/2006.