Managing Medication Side Effects of Mental Health Medications

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by treatment. They can be mild to severe and affect different parts of the body, especially when dealing with prescription medicines. Knowing the common side effects of mental health medications will help you manage them better.

Common Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Gastrointestinal Issues

• Symptoms:
  Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation. These symptoms are often seen in patients taking antipsychotic medications.

Management

• Nausea:
  Take medication with food, eat small frequent meals, stay hydrated, avoid spicy food.
  
  
• Constipation:
  Increase fiber intake, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, consider over-the-counter stool softeners if needed.

Weight Gain

• Symptoms:
  Increased appetite and weight. Weight gain is a common side effect of many psychiatric medications.

Management

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins.
  
  
• Monitor portion sizes and avoid high calorie snacks.
  
  
• Exercise regularly to manage weight.

Sleep Disturbances

• Symptoms:
  Insomnia, drowsiness, vivid dreams. Sleep disturbances are often reported by patients taking mental health medication.

Management

• Insomnia:
  Establish a sleep routine, create a sleep environment, avoid caffeine and screens before bed.
  
  
• Drowsiness:
  Take medication at bedtime if approved by your doctor, don’t drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel drowsy.

Sexual Dysfunction

• Symptoms: Low libido, difficulty reaching orgasm, erectile dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction can be a side effect of various psychiatric medications.

Management

• Talk to your partner about it.
  
  
• Talk to your doctor about medication adjustments or alternatives.
  
  
• See a therapist or counselor for any psychological aspects.

Dry Mouth

• Symptoms: Feeling of dryness in the mouth. Dry mouth can also be caused by other medications you may be taking.

Management

• Drink water frequently and chew sugar free gum or suck on sugar free candies to stimulate saliva production.
  
  
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine which dehydrate you.
  
  
• Use a humidifier at night to keep the air moist.

Blurred Vision

• Symptoms: Difficulty focusing or seeing clearly. Blurred vision can also occur with the use of generic drugs.

Management

• Get regular eye exams.
  
  
• If symptoms persist, see your doctor for medication adjustment.

Dizziness and Lightheadedness

• Symptoms: Feeling unsteady or faint. Dizziness and lightheadedness are common side effects of medications used to treat depression.

Management

• Get up slowly from sitting or lying positions to avoid sudden drop in blood pressure.
  
  
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol.
  
  
• If symptoms persist see your doctor about adjusting your dosage.

Emotional Blunting

• Symptoms: Feeling emotionally numb or less empathetic. Emotional blunting can occur in patients being treated for various mental health conditions.

Management

• Talk to your therapist or psychiatrist.
  
  
• Do things that make you feel good, like hobbies or socializing.
  
  
• Consider whether a medication adjustment is necessary.