Study Ranks Antidepressants' Physical Side Effects for First Time

Published 8 hours ago

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The Spin

Narrative A

About 10-15% of adults take antidepressants worldwide. The Lancet's research shows how each affects physical health, including kidney and liver function. This breakthrough enables personalized prescribing — treatment guidelines should be updated to reflect these physiological differences, and antidepressant selection should involve shared decision-making between patients and clinicians based on individual needs.

Samuel Hume on X

Rita Rosenfeld on X

Narrative B

This study exposes serious cardiovascular and metabolic risks from antidepressants that demand immediate attention. Tricyclic antidepressants and SNRIs like amitriptyline and venlafaxine dangerously increase heart rate and blood pressure, while drugs like maprotiline cause problematic weight gain. The cumulative risks over months or years of real-world use are likely far higher than these short-term trials reveal.

Science Media Centre National Elf Service

Narrative C

This antidepressant analysis shows that commonly prescribed medications in America cause only mild, manageable side effects. Popular drugs like Prozac, Zoloft and Wellbutrin actually promote weight loss rather than gain. The fluctuations found were statistically insignificant and not clinically meaningful, while the health benefits of treating depression far outweigh any minor risks.

The New York Times

Metaculus Prediction

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