Doctors prescribe antidepressants more than any other drug, reports CNNHealth.com. The use of antidepressants rose by 48 percent between 1995 and 2000. Antidepressants can be lifesaving for people with severe depression, but there are some dangers.

Side Effects

All antidepressants carry the risk of side effects. Sides effects vary from medication to medication, but commonly include symptoms like drowsiness, loss of appetite, weight loss. Side effects are usually mild but can be severe in some cases.

Withdrawal

Some antidepressants cause severe withdrawal symptoms in some patients. Withdrawal symptoms may include nausea, headache, muscle and joint pain, insomnia, "electric shock" sensations, dizziness, fatigue and anxiety.

Mania

Use of antidepressants causes manic episodes in some patients, particularly those with bipolar disorder. Patients experiencing a manic episode sometimes engage in risky behavior, make impulsive decisions and lack sound judgment.

Worsening of Symptoms

Antidepressants sometimes seem to make symptoms worse, especially in children and adolescents. A number of antidepressants have been associated with an increase in suicidal thinking and behavior in young patients.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Few studies have been conducted regarding the use of antidepressants during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Antidepressants have not been proven safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Babies may suffer withdrawal symptoms if they are born with certain antidepressant drugs in their systems.

Source:

CNNHealth.com: Antidepressants Most Prescribed Drugs in U.S.

Mayo Clinic: Antidepressant Side Effects

Mayo Clinic: Antidepressant Withdrawal

More Information:

Drugs.com: Effexor XR

RxList.com: Paxil

Prozac.com