How do antidepressants typically impact sleep architecture?

Antidepressants are well-known to have a significant impact on sleep architecture, which refers to the structure and pattern of sleep cycles throughout the night. One of the primary ways antidepressants affect sleep is by altering Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep and overall sleep quality. Many antidepressants, particularly those that belong to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class and other types, can suppress REM sleep. This alteration can sometimes lead to improved sleep quality in individuals with certain sleep disturbances associated with depression or anxiety, as excessive REM sleep is linked to sleep disruption.

In addition to affecting REM sleep, antidepressants can also influence non-REM stages of sleep, possibly causing changes in sleep efficacy and the overall restorative quality of sleep. This is particularly important because the balance of sleep patterns is critical for mood regulation, cognitive function, and overall mental health.

While increased total sleep duration, enhancements in deep sleep phases, and earlier sleep onset are potential effects that might occur with certain interventions or conditions, they are not characteristic or consistent outcomes for antidepressants in general. The most definitive and common effect observed is the alteration of REM sleep along with variations in sleep quality, making the first choice the most accurate description of how antidepressants typically impact sleep architecture.