What is a common side effect shared by most antidepressants?

Drowsiness or fatigue is a common side effect shared by many antidepressants, particularly those that are classified as sedative or atypical antidepressants. This effect occurs because certain antidepressants can act on neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play roles in mood regulation and alertness. For instance, medications like tricyclic antidepressants and certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can lead to increased sedation and fatigue due to their sedative properties or because they may influence sleep patterns.

While nausea, dehydration, and hair loss can be potential side effects of specific antidepressants, they are not experienced as broadly across the class of antidepressants as drowsiness or fatigue. Drowsiness can affect daily functioning and may require adjustments in dosage or medication types to manage effectively, making it an important consideration for both healthcare providers and patients starting treatment.