Medication Side Effects
Even the most effective and popular antidepressants have side effects. A doctor tries to prescribe a medication aimed at ameliorating your child's symptoms. As he is deciding what medication to use, he tries to balance it with what sort of side effects might accompany the medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of each medication's potential side effects.
Type of Antidepressant |
Side Effects |
Tricyclic antidepressants |
drowsiness, dry mouth, weight gain, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, constipation, fatigue, mental confusion or problems with concentration, muscle twitches, excessive sweating |
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) |
insomnia, nausea, shaking, excessive sweating, high blood pressure |
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) |
nausea, headaches, nervousness, insomnia, weight loss or gain, dry mouth, excessive sweating, fatigue, agitation |
Atypical antidepressants |
check with your doctor as side effects can mimic those of other medications |
Essential
Don't let the possibility of side effects deter you from putting your child on medication if he needs it. Many side effects can be managed by switching medications or making adjustments to the existing medication. Sometimes another medication can be added. In any case, trust that your physician knows how to make the most of your child's medication.
Questions for Your Physician
If you are considering medication for your child, ask as many questions as you want of your doctor. The following is a list of questions you might want to ask:
Why are you recommending this particular medication?
What are the potential side effects? Which side effects are most frequent?
If there are side effects, can I do anything to minimize them?
How long will it be before you know if the medication is working or needs to be changed?
For teenagers, you might ask the following additional questions:
How do I get my teenager to comply with medication?
What if he won't take his medication regularly?
Will any of these medications affect his ability to drive, play sports, or participate in other activities?
What about the effects of taking these medications and drinking?
What would be the risks of an overdose with these medications?
Will growth and/or learning be affected?
The most important thing you can do as a parent when your child is prescribed medication is to follow your doctor's orders explicitly. Do not assume that a little change here and there won't matter. Remember, that is why you hire experts!
