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Psychiatric Medications Used At Iremia Psychiatric Care in Tampa, FL

Mental health medication that makes a real difference –

for you and your loved one.

Just over 9% of children and 20% of adults in America take medication for their mental health. But with hundreds of medication options available, how do you find the medication that works best for you? 

After helping hundreds of adults and children improve their mental health, I’ve learned which medications work and which ones don’t. 

This list includes 30 different mental health medications that actually work, and I’m so excited to share them with you. So take some time to read through this list of medications – especially if I’ve prescribed or recommended a certain medication for your mental health treatment plan.

Amitriptyline / Elavil

This is a well-tolerated medication commonly used to treat depression. It’s a Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA), and it works by increasing two chemicals in the brain – serotonin and norepinephrine. 

Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder, depression, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, and social anxiety. 

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. 

Mild side effects: Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, nightmares, headache, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, trouble urinating, pain or tingling in hands or feet, sweating, changes in appetite or weight, confusion, trouble walking, and sexual dysfunction.

Serious side effects: Trouble speaking, fainting, weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, allergic reaction, yellowing of skin or eyes, muscle spasms, shaking of the body, abnormal bleeding or bruising, seizures, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts. 

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia.

Aripiprazole is an Atypical Antipsychotic that works to regulate mood by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin. 

Conditions treated: Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autistic disorder. It can also be used with an antidepressant to treat severe depression especially if it’s associated with psychotic features.

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. When used for the treatment of major depressive disorder, it may take up to 12 weeks to see full effects.

Mild side effects: Headache, restlessness, dizziness, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, weight gain, appetite changes, increased salivation, pain in the body, and fatigue. 

Serious side effects: Allergic reaction, swelling, seizures, vision changes, throat tightness, trouble walking, shaking of the body, fever, confusion, fast or irregular heart beat, difficulty breathing, and suicidal thoughts. 

If used in elderly people, this medication may cause sudden death. 

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia.

Atomoxetine is a Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor. It works by increasing a chemical in the brain needed to control behavior and focus called norepinephrine. 

Conditions treated: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to eight weeks to see effects. 

Mild side effects: Heartburn, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and weight, constipation, gas, dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, headache, mood swings, sexual dysfunction, trouble urinating, abnormal menstrual periods, muscle pain, sweating, hot flashes, unusual dreams, and burning or tingling or the arms or legs.

Serious side effects: Fast heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, trouble talking, dizziness, weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, yellowing of the skin or eyes, itchy skin, dark urine, flu-like symptoms, stomach pain, swelling, trouble speaking or swallowing, allergic reaction, hallucinations, erection that lasts for several hours, and seizures. 

When used in children and teenagers, Atomoxetine may cause suicidal thoughts.

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Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication that works by blocking a brain chemical called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is responsible for involuntary muscle movements in the body. 

Conditions treated: Helps to decrease the side effects of antipsychotic medications (extrapyramidal symptoms). It’s also used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. 

Average time needed to see results: Within one hour.

Mild side effects: Dry mouth, difficulty urinating, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Serious side effects: Rash, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, confusion, depression, vision changes, and hallucinations. 

Bupropion is a type of antidepressant that belongs to the medication class Norepinephrine/Dopamine-Reuptake Inhibitor. It improves mood by helping to restore the balance of two chemicals in the brain called dopamine and norepinephrine.

Conditions treated: Depression and seasonal affective disorder. It’s also used to help people stop smoking. 

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects.

Mild side effects: Fatigue, anxiety, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, shaking of the body, changes in appetite or weight, constipation, sweating, change in taste, ringing in the ears, frequent urination, and sore throat.

Serious side effects: Seizures, confusion, hallucinations, fast or irregular heartbeat, muscle or joint pain, chest pain, allergic reaction, and suicidal thoughts.

This medication may cause Serotonin Syndrome.

Bupropion-Dextromethorphan is a combination medication used to treat mental health conditions. It has effects on several different areas of the brain.

Bupropion is a type of antidepressant that belongs to the medication class Norepinephrine/Dopamine-Reuptake Inhibitor. It improves mood by helping to restore the balance of two chemicals in the brain called dopamine and norepinephrine.

Dextromethorphan is a N-Methyl-D-asparate Receptor Antagonist that helps to regulate brain signaling, which results in antidepressant effects.

Conditions treated: Major depressive disorder

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. 

Mild side effects: Fatigue, dizziness, nervousness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, increased sweating, loss of appetite, joint pain, numbness or tingling, trouble sleeping, and sexual dysfunction.

Serious side effects: Seizures, coma, swelling of parts of the body, fever, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, muscle stiffness, trouble walking, allergic reaction, and suicidal thoughts. 

This medication may cause Serotonin Syndrome.

This medication is a type of anxiolytic, which means that it helps to reduce anxiety. It belongs to a medication class called Serotonin 5-HT1A Receptor Agonists. Buspirone helps to reduce anxiety by balancing two chemicals in the brain called dopamine and serotonin.

Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder. Buspirone is sometimes used along with other medications for depression and seasonal affective disorder. 

Average time needed to see results: Two to four weeks

Mild side effects: Dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, nervousness, excitement, confusion, trouble sleeping, feelings of anger or hostility, lightheadedness, weakness, numbness, and sweating.

Serious side effects: Fast or irregular heartbeat, blurred vision, shaking of the body, and allergic reaction. 

Cariprazine is an Atypical Antipsychotic that regulates mood by increasing the levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin. 

Conditions treated: Bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and schizophrenia.

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see full effects. For those with major depressive disorder, up to 12 weeks may be needed to see full effects. 

Mild side effects: Fatigue, restlessness, anxiety, agitation, trouble sleeping, dizziness, trouble walking, increased appetite and weight, constipation, nausea, indigestion, increased saliva production, and blurred vision.

Serious side effects: Seizures, fever, muscle weakness, trouble swallowing or breathing, throat tightness, allergic reaction, dark urine, decreased urination, and swelling of the body. 

If used in elderly people, this medication may cause sudden death. 

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia.

This medication is an antidepressant that belongs to a medication class called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). Citalopram works by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain called serotonin. More serotonin helps improve mood and help treat certain mental health conditions. 

Conditions treated: Major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and social anxiety. 

Average time needed to see results: One to four weeks

Mild side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, heartburn, changes in appetite and weight, increased sweating, increased thirst and urination, trouble sleeping, fatigue, shaking of the body, muscle or joint pain, dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, heavy menstrual periods, and runny nose.

Serious side effects: Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, allergic reaction, seizures, abnormal bleeding and bruising, headache, trouble walking, problems with thinking, concentration, or memory, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, if you have underlying bipolar disease, Citalopram may cause mania. 

This medication may cause Serotonin Syndrome.

Clomipramine is a Tricyclic Antidepressant that improves mood by increasing levels of a feel-good chemical in the brain called serotonin.

Conditions treated: Obsessive compulsive disorder and panic disorder. It’s also sometimes used for major depressive disorder. 

Average time needed to see results: Two to six weeks

Mild side effects: Drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, nervousness, sexual dysfunction, headache, decreased memory or concentration, headache, stuffy nose, and change in appetite or weight. 

Serious side effects: Seizures, fast or irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating, loss of bladder control, paranoia, hallucinations, difficulty breathing, shaking of the body, muscle stiffness, infection, and suicidal thoughts.

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia.

Clonidine is an Alpha2-Adrenergic Agonist that improves hyperactivity and focus by decreasing the production of a brain chemical called norepinephrine.

Along with mental health conditions, Clonidine is also used to treat physical heath conditions like high blood pressure. Clonidine is often used with other medications but it can be used alone too. For mental health conditions, the extended release type is typically used. 

Conditions treated: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and to help people stop smoking. 

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks

Mild side effects: Dry mouth, fatigue, headache, nervousness, sexual dysfunction, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Serious side effects: Allergic reaction, fainting, difficulty swallowing or breathing, swelling of parts of the body, and fast or irregular heartbeat. 

This medication is a Central Nervous System Stimulant that works by increasing two chemicals in the brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are needed to control behavior and focus. 

This medication is a controlled substance because it can be habit-forming.

Conditions treated: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Average time needed to see results: Immediate-release forms work within one hour, and extended-release forms work within four hours.

Mild side effects: Nervousness, headache, sexual dysfunction, painful menstrual cramps, dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and weight loss. 

Serious side effects: Trouble speaking, dizziness, weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, seizures, motor or verbal tics, teeth grinding, depression, paranoia, hallucinations, mania, vision changes, blue color of the fingers or toes, numbness or tingling of hands or feet, wounds on finger or toes, blisters or peeling of the skin, and allergic reaction. 

Children may have a hard time gaining weight while taking Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine.

Additionally, some cases of sudden death have been reported, as this medication can affect the heart. This risk is increased in those with underlying heart problems.

Divalproex belongs to a group of medications called Anticonvulsants (anti-seizure). These types of medications are commonly used to treat seizure disorders, but they have other uses too. 

Divalproex regulates mood by increasing levels of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA helps to decrease the bursts of activity in the brain, which prevents seizures, treats certain mood disorders, and can even prevent migraine headaches.

Conditions treated: Bipolar disorder

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. This time may be less with immediate release forms.

Mild side effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, constipation, appetite and weight change, mood swings, shaking of the body, trouble walking, uncontrollable eye movements, vision changes, ringing in the ears, and hair loss. 

Serious side effects: Abnormal bleeding, purple or red spots on the skin, fever, difficulty breathing, allergic reaction, swollen glands, peeling or blistering skin, confusion, low body temperature, and weakness or swelling in the joints. It’s important to note that this medication may cause serious or life-threatening damage to the liver or pancreas. 

Doxepin is a Tricyclic Antidepressant that improves mood by increasing levels of a feel-good chemical in the brain called serotonin.

Conditions treated: Major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, insomnia, and bipolar disorder.

Time needed to work: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. 

Mild side effects: Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, mouth sores, sensitive skin, flushing, changes in appetite or weight, change in taste, ingestion, constipation, diarrhea, trouble urinating, increased thirst and urination, ringing in the ears, sexual dysfunction, swollen testicles, increased breast size, discharge from nipples in females, increased sweating, chills, headache, and hair loss. 

Serious side effects: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, fast heartbeat, abnormal bleeding or bruising, skin rash or itching, and suicidal thoughts. 

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia.

Duloxetine is an antidepressant that’s a Serotonin/Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor. This medication works to improve mood by increasing levels of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine. 

Conditions treated: Major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. 

Mild side effects: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, changes in weight or appetite, heartburn, stomach pain, dry mouth, increased urination, increased sweating or night sweats, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, muscle pain or cramps, sexual dysfunction, and shaking of the body. 

Serious side effects: Abnormal bruising or bleeding, stomach pain or swelling, yellowing of the skin or eyes, itchy skin, dark urine, confusion, trouble walking, infection, seizures, hallucinations, peeling skin, trouble urinating, allergic reaction, and suicidal thoughts.

This medication may cause Serotonin Syndrome.

Fluvoxamine is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor that improves mood by increasing levels of a feel-good chemical in the brain called serotonin. 

Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disease, post traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and eating disorders. 

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. 

Mild side effects: Dry mouth, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, indigestion, gas, change in taste, stuffy nose, change in appetite or weight, sweating, trouble sleeping, nervousness, or sexual dysfunction. 

Serious side effects: Nerve pain in the hands or feet, shaking of the body, trouble concentrating or remembering things, confusion, trouble walking, allergic reaction, fainting, abnormal bleeding or bruising, trouble breathing, seizures, and suicidal thoughts. 

This medication may cause Serotonin Syndrome.

Gabapentin is an Anticonvulsant (anti-seizure) and nerve pain medication that affects brain chemicals to slow down nerve signaling and improve mood.

Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Gabapentin is also used to treat seizure disorders, nerve pain, essential tremor, and restless leg syndrome.

Average time needed to see results: Two to three hours. Some people may need up to two weeks to notice effects. 

Mild side effects: Fatigue, dizziness, headache, shaking of the body, vision changes, trouble walking, anxiety, memory problems, unwanted eye movements, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, changes in appetite or weight, swelling, joint pain, fever, flu-like symptoms, ear pain, and red or itchy eyes. 

Serious side effects: Allergic reaction, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and seizures.

Hydroxyzine is an Antihistamine that improves anxiety by increasing levels of two feel-good chemicals in the brain: serotonin and dopamine. 

Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder

Average time needed to see results: 15 to 30 minutes. 

Mild side effects: Dry mouth, constipation, confusion, dizziness, and headache. 

Serious side effects: Uncontrolled shaking of the body, seizures, rash, and pus-filled sores on the body.

Lamotrigine belongs to a group of medications called Anticonvulsants (anti-seizure medications). These types of medications are commonly used to treat seizure disorders, but they have other uses too. 

Lamotrigine regulates and improves mood by regulating certain proteins in the brain to stabilize brain activity. 

Conditions treated: Bipolar disorder. It’s also used with other medications for the use of major depressive disorder. 

Average time needed to see results: Two to six weeks.

Mild side effects: Trouble with balance and coordination, vision changes, trouble speaking, difficulty concentrating, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, changes in appetite or weight, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, dry mouth, joint pain, abnormal menstrual periods, vaginal irritation, and shaking of the body.

Serious side effects: Abnormal bruising or bleeding, swelling of the body, seizures, fever, shortness of breath, fainting, neck pain and stiffness, confusion, sensitivity to light, abnormal heartbeat, and signs of infection.

Lamotrigine may cause serious and life-threatening rashes.

Lisdexamfetamine is a Central Nervous System Stimulant that works by increasing two chemicals in the brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are needed to control behavior and focus. 

This medication is a controlled substance because it can be habit-forming.

Conditions treated: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Average time needed to see results: Within two hours.

Mild side effects: Fatigue, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and weight loss.

Serious side effects: Trouble sleeping, weakness or numbness of arm or leg, seizures, hallucinations, paranoia, mood swings, motor or verbal tics, allergic reaction, vision changes, paleness or blue color of fingers or toes, numbness or sensitivity in the fingers or toes, or wounds on the fingers or toes. 

Children may have a hard time gaining weight while taking Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine.

Additionally, some cases of sudden death have been reported, as this medication can affect the heart. This risk is increased in those with underlying heart problems.

Methylphenidate is a Central Nervous System Stimulant that works by increasing two chemicals in the brain called  dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are needed to control behavior and focus. 

It’s available in several different forms, but the two that I use for patients are Concerta and Ritalin. These two forms of Methylphenidate are both used to treat ADHD and have similar side effects as listed below. The main difference between these two forms is that Concerta is longer-lasting and dosed once a day and Ritalin is shorter-acting and dosed two to three times a day.

This medication is a controlled substance because it can be habit-forming.

Conditions treated: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Average time needed to see results: 

  • Concerta: Initial results are seen within one hour, and the medication continues to be released for five to nine hours
  • Ritalin: Within 20 to 60 minutes

Mild side effects: Nervousness, irritability, trouble sleeping, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach pain, diarrhea, heartburn, dry mouth, headache, muscle tightness, fatigue, uncontrollable movement of the body, restlessness, decreased sexual desire, sweating, and back pain.

Serious side effects: Fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, trouble speaking, fainting, weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, seizures, vision changes, paranoia, hallucinations, motor or verbal tics, depression, mania, mood changes, frequent and painful erections, erection that lasts several hours, numbness or sensitivity in fingers or toes, skin color change or wounds of fingers or toes, fever, blistering or peeling skin, swelling, and allergic reaction.

Children may have a hard time gaining weight while taking Methylphenidate.

Mirtazapine is a Tetracyclic Antidepressant that improves mood by increasing the production of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and serotonin. 

Conditions treated: Major depressive disorder and panic disorder.

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects.

Mild side effects: Fatigue, dizziness, anxiousness, confusion, increased weight and appetite, dry mouth, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. 

Serious side effects: Flu-like symptoms, chest pain, fast heartbeat, seizures, and suicidal thoughts. 

Nortriptyline is a Tricyclic Antidepressant that improves mood by increasing two chemicals in the brain – serotonin and norepinephrine. 

Conditions treated: Major depressive disorder. This medication is also used sometimes to help people stop smoking and to prevent migraine headaches.

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects.

Mild side effects: Nausea, fatigue, anxiety, nightmares, dry mouth, changes in appetite or weight, constipation, trouble urinating, urinating too often, increased sweating, and sexual dysfunction.

Serious side effects: Muscle spasms, difficulty speaking, trouble walking, shaking of the body, fever, trouble breathing, allergic reaction, yellowing of the skin or eyes, irregular heartbeat, and suicidal thoughts.

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia.

This medication is an antidepressant that belongs to a medication class called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Paroxetine improves mood by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain called serotonin.

Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and social anxiety disorder. 

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. For premenstrual dysphoric disorder, effects may be noticed within the first few days of treatment.

Mild side effects: Headache, dizziness, weakness, trouble concentrating, nervousness, memory problems, confusion, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas, heartburn, stomach pain, changes in taste, changes in appetite or weight, sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, sweating, pain in the body, and joint pain or swelling.

Serious side effects: Hallucinations, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, trouble breathing, seizures, abnormal bleeding or bruising, tiny red spots on the skin, peeling or blistering skin, infection, shaking of the body, trouble walking, numbness or tingling, painful erection that lasts for hours, allergic reaction, bone pain, and suicidal thoughts. 

Children may have appetite loss and weight loss while taking paroxetine.

This medication may cause Serotonin Syndrome.

Propranolol is a Beta-Blocker that’s used for many different medical conditions involving the heart, nervous system, and brain. For mental health conditions, it works by blocking the effects of brain chemicals (adrenaline and noradrenaline) that cause physical signs of anxiety like a fast heart rate, increased sweating, and shakiness.

Conditions treated: Performance anxiety disorder and antipsychotic-induced akathisia (a movement disorder caused by antipsychotic medications).

Average time needed to see results: One to two hours.

Mild side effects: Dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, diarrhea, and constipation.

Serious side effects: Trouble breathing or swallowing, allergic reaction, fainting, rapid weight gain, and irregular heartbeat.

Quetiapine is an Atypical Antipsychotic that stabilizes mood by regulating two brain chemicals called dopamine and serotonin.

Conditions treated: Bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, and psychosis in Parkinson’s disease. Quetiapine is also used for agitation, aggression, and psychosis related to dementia.

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to eight weeks to see full effects. For those with major depressive disorder, up to 12 weeks may be needed to see full effects. 

Mild side effects: Dizziness, pain, weakness, dry mouth, vomiting, indigestion, constipation, gas, stomach pain, changes in weight or appetite, headache, irritability, trouble thinking or concentrating, trouble speaking, trouble walking, abnormal dreams, numbness or tingling, abnormal menstrual periods, breast enlargement in males, breast discharge, and sexual dysfunction.

Serious side effects: Fainting, seizures, vision changes, uncontrollable movements, painful erection that lasts for hours, fever, muscle stiffness, fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, abnormal bleeding or bruising, infection, allergic reaction, trouble breathing or swallowing, tightening of the neck muscles, and suicidal thoughts.

When used in the elderly, this medication may cause sudden death.

This medication may cause Tardive Dyskinesia.

This medication is an antidepressant that belongs to a medication class called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Paroxetine improves mood by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain called serotonin. 

Conditions treated: Generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, social anxiety disorder, and eating disorders. 

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects. For premenstrual dysphoric disorder, effects may be noticed within the first few days of treatment.

Mild side effects: Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, heartburn, change in appetite and weight, dizziness, fatigue, headache, nervousness, shaking of the body, increased sweating, and sexual dysfunction.

Serious side effects: Seizures, abnormal bleeding or bruising, memory problems, allergic reaction, and suicidal thoughts.

This medication may cause Serotonin Syndrome.

Topiramate is an Anticonvulsant (anti-seizure) medication that’s used to treat seizure disorders and certain mental health conditions – specifically those related to appetite and weight gain. By balancing certain chemicals in the brain, Topiramate regulates appetite and also helps to prevent seizures.

Conditions treated: Binge eating disorder. Topiramate is also used to help with weight gain caused by antipsychotic medications.

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to eight weeks to see effects.

Mild side effects: Numbness or tingling, slowed reactions, nervousness, headache, fatigue, shaking of the body, uncontrollable eye movements, weight loss, constipation, nausea, stomach pain, change in sense of taste, dry mouth, nosebleed, pain, and abnormal menstrual periods. 

Serious side effects: Peeling or blistering of the skin, vision changes, eye pain or redness, seizures, low body temperature, trouble speaking or thinking clearly, trouble walking, fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, trouble breathing, infection, and abnormal bleeding or bruising.

Trazodone is a Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor/Antagonist that improves mood by increasing levels of a brain chemical called serotonin. 

Conditions treated: Major depressive disorder and insomnia. Trazodone is also used to help with aggression and agitation due to dementia. 

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to six weeks to see effects.

Mild side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, changes in appetite or weight, fatigue, nervousness, dizziness, lightheadedness, nightmares, muscle pain, dry mouth, shaking of the body, red or itchy eyes, and sexual dysfunction. 

Serious side effects: Chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, coma, seizures, trouble breathing, abnormal bleeding or bruising, small red dots on the skin, erection that last several hours, trouble walking, and suicidal thoughts.

Viloxazine is a Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor. It works by increasing a chemical in the brain needed to control behavior and focus called norepinephrine. 

Conditions treated: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Average time needed to see results: One to two weeks. Some people need up to four to eight weeks to see effects. 

Mild side effects: Loss of appetite, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, and headache. 

Serious side effects: When used in children and teenagers, Viloxazine may cause suicidal thoughts. Additionally, children may have a hard time gaining weight while taking Viloxazine. 

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Important Information – Please Read

What To Do For Side Effects

All medications can cause side effects and adverse reactions. Each medication listed has a list of both mild and serious side effects. 

For side effects listed under mild – contact me if they’re severe or don’t go away. 

For side effects listed under serious – contact me immediately if you experience any of them.

Certain mental health medications can cause other medical conditions including Tardive Dyskinesia and Serotonin Syndrome. Because these conditions are serious and life-threatening, I want to make sure you know what they are and what to look out for.

 

Tardive Dyskinesia

Tardive Dyskinesia is a serious side effect of certain Antipsychotic medications and Antidepressants. This condition typically happens with long-term use of the medication (months to years). But in some cases, Tardive Dyskinesia happens in as little as six weeks. 

The symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia include:

  • Facial grimacing
  • Finger movements
  • Rocking or thrusting of the pelvis
  • Jaw swinging
  • Repetitive chewing
  • Rapid eye blinking
  • Tongue thrusting
  • Restlessness

 

If diagnosed early, Tardive Dyskinesia is sometimes reversible. However, many times, the movements caused by Tardive Dyskinesia may become permanent or worsen.

 

Serotonin Syndrome

Serotonin Syndrome is a potentially life-threatening drug reaction that occurs when the body has too much of a brain chemical called serotonin. Many antidepressants and some anti-anxiety medications increase levels of serotonin, which increases the risk of Serotonin Syndrome. 

Serotonin Syndrome most often occurs when two or more serotonin-increasing medications are taken at once. Symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome may include:

  • Restlessness
  • Abnormal eye movements
  • Diarrhea
  • Fast heartbeat
  • High blood pressure
  • Hallucinations
  • Increased body temperature
  • Trouble walking
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Overactive reflexes
  • Rapid changes in blood pressure

 

If you have symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome, please proceed to the nearest emergency department. 

Questions about your treatment plan?

If you have questions about a medication Grecia has recommended or you’re interested in learning more about a different medication, contact our office today. 

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References:

  1. www.cdc.gov
  2. www.medlineplus.gov
  3. www.goodrx.com
  4. www.uptodate.com