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Psychotropic Medication Side Effects

Psychotropic drugs are defined by the World Health Organization as those impacting the central nervous system, specifically anti-anxiety medications, antipsychotic drugs, and antidepressant treatments. All such medications do carry the risk of side effects.

  1. Anti-Anxiety Drugs

    • Valium and related sedative drugs have a number of possible side effects including addiction, according to MedlinePlus. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, mood changes, and appetite changes.

    Antipsychotic Drugs

    • Psychotropic drugs include antipsychotics such as Seroquel, which work to stop delusions and hallucinations. Possible side effects include involuntary bodily movements and weight gain, according to MedlinePlus.

    SSRI Antidepressant Drugs

    • Prozac and similar selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressants, according to MedlinePlus. Side effects include sleeping problems and changes in sex drive.

    Tricyclic Antidepressant Drugs

    • Older tricyclic antidepressants like Elavil are considered psychotropic drugs. Side effects can include possibly fatal overdose, excessive sweating, and problems urinating.

    Heightened Suicide Risk

    • Heightened suicide risk is a possible result of any psychotropic drug, according to MedlinePlus. Young people under age 24 taking antidepressants are especially susceptible to this serious side effect.

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