BBC medic points antidepressants warning for fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram
BBC medic Dr Ranj Singh has issued an important reminder to anyone in the UK taking SSRI antidepressants such as fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram, flagging two key side effects to be aware of
A BBC medic has spoken of two side effects antidepressants can cause(Image: BBC Morning Live)
A BBC health expert has issued an important health warning to people in the UK taking antidepressants. Doctor Ranj Singh told viewers on BBC Morning Live that people should be aware of the two main side effects when taking the medicines.
The medic’s advice was aimed at Brits taking SSRIs drugs such as fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram. The doctor explained: “Lots of people take antidepressants for various reasons. We know that they can be life-saving, but we also know that some of them have potentially significant side effects.
“This is just a reminder of that for a specific type of antidepressant called an SSRI. We’re talking about medications like fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram.”
Fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram can cause side effects (stock)
The NHS states selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are the most widely used type of antidepressants. The National Health Service explains how these drugs work and alter people’s moods after taking them.
The NHS states: “It’s thought to work by increasing the level of serotonin (a chemical in the brain linked to mood). When serotonin levels are normal, this may reduce stress levels and negative thoughts.”
Two side effects
Doctor Ranj Singh explained there are two potential side-effects when taking this medication: suicidal thoughts and sexual dysfunction. The doctor added these side effects can also continue after you finish taking the medication.
Dr Ranj stated: “It’s just a reminder that people need to be aware of this and if you happen to be having any of these symptoms, please speak to a healthcare professional. You should not be making changes to your medication off your own back. Just be aware of it, doesn’t mean you’re going to get it, but if you do, please speak to someone.”
The NHS states antidepressants including fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram can cause several health concerns.
The health service states citalopram can be used to treat depression and panic disorder. It adds sertraline can be used for depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social anxiety disorder.
The UK government has issued a statement (stock)
And Fluoxetine can also be used to treat depression, bulimia and OCD and even symptoms of menopause.
The UK government has issued a new statement offering guidance for people taking antidepressant medication And has also implemented new safety measures.
The statement read: “ This follows completion of a detailed review, involving patients and their families, into how the risks of suicidal thoughts and behaviours, and persistent sexual dysfunction are communicated in the patient information leaflets (PILs) that accompany antidepressant medications.
“These changes involve a new boxed warning in the PIL, a new patient card, and a supporting safety (ancillary) leaflet. The term post SSRI sexual dysfunction (“PSSD”) is also being added to the PIL for some antidepressant medications.”
