Medications and Their Side Effects
More specifically, some daily medicines can cause anxiety or depression; but knowing what to look for can help you protect your health and peace of mind.
Medicines That May Cause Depression Symptoms
- High blood pressure and heart drugs: Beta-blockers and other blood pressure pills help protect your heart. But for some people, these drugs can slow down energy, lower mood, and cause tiredness.
- Diabetes medications: Keeping blood sugar stable is vital; however, when blood sugar drops too low or shifts quickly due to insulin or other diabetes drugs, it can trigger anxiety, mood swings, and feelings of sadness or depression.
- Acid reflux and stomach pills: Some common over the counter and prescription stomach drugs may lower certain vitamin levels in your body over time, which can leave you feeling drained, weak, or down.
- Steroids and hormones: Steroid pills used for joint pain, asthma, or swelling can cause quick shifts in mood. You might feel irritable or anxious at first, followed by low energy and sadness.
Depression Symptoms to Watch For
- Low mood: Feeling sad, empty, tearful, or hopeless – for more than a few days
- Loss of interest: No longer enjoying hobbies, visits with family, or day-to-day life
- Energy changes: Feeling exhausted even after getting enough sleep
- Sleep issues: Having trouble falling asleep, or sleeping much more than usual
- Appetite shifts: Eating much less than normal or losing weight without trying
- Brain fog: Difficulty focusing, making simple choices, or remembering daily tasks
Safe Steps to Take
Instead, follow these simple steps:
- Keep a full list: Write down all your prescription pills, over-the-counter medicines, and your vitamins.
- Note when changes started: Write down when you started a new medication and when your mood started to shift.
- Talk to your WellBe provider: Show your list to your provider, nurse, or pharmacist. They can adjust your dose or switch you to a different option that feels better.
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