talkhealth forums

I’m battling with insomnia and was wondering if low concentrations of antidepressants to treat insomnia? Is this a good idea and what side effects may there be to taking them?

Thank you Diane for your question, Many Doctors prescribe a number of different antidepressants with the idea that they may help sleep. Unfortunately, there is little scientific evidence to support their use in this manner.

dependent on the antidepressant, side effects can include

feeling agitated, shaky or anxious
feeling and being sick
indigestion and stomach aches
diarrhoea or constipation
loss of appetite
dizziness
not sleeping well (insomnia), or feeling very sleepy
headaches
low sex drive
difficulties achieving orgasm during sex or masturbation
in men, difficulties obtaining or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)
dry mouth
slight blurring of vision
constipation
problems passing urine
drowsiness
dizziness
weight gain
excessive sweating (especially at night)
heart rhythm problems, such as noticeable palpitations or a fast heartbeat (tachycardia)