SSRI Brain Zaps (Discontinuation Syndrome)
Brief electrical-shock sensations in the head, often with dizziness and visual disturbances, that appear when SSRI doses are missed or the medication is tapered too quickly.
Read the guideSSRI Sexual Dysfunction
Reduced libido, delayed or absent orgasm, erectile dysfunction, and genital numbness from SSRI antidepressants — the most common reason patients ask to switch medications.
Read the guideSSRI Weight Gain
Progressive weight gain on SSRI antidepressants — typically 5-15 lbs over the first year, sometimes much more, often distinct from any change in eating or exercise.
Read the guideAntidepressant Insomnia
Difficulty falling asleep, frequent night-time waking, or non-restorative sleep caused by activating antidepressants — common with SSRIs, SNRIs, and Wellbutrin.
Read the guideSSRI Emotional Blunting
The flattening of emotional range on SSRIs — reduced ability to feel pleasure, sadness, love, or anger fully. Affects 40-60% of long-term SSRI users.
Read the guideSSRI Fatigue and Drowsiness
Persistent tiredness, daytime drowsiness, and reduced energy from SSRIs — common but often confused with depression's low energy.
Read the guideImportant: Don’t stop or adjust antidepressants on your own. Even mild side effects deserve a clinical conversation, and dose changes need to be coordinated with your prescriber to avoid discontinuation syndrome or depression breakthrough.
These pages describe what side effects are, why they happen, and what options exist — they are not medical advice and don’t replace your prescriber.