Can some prescription medications make you depressed?

Every prescription medication comes with the possibility of side effects. Often, these effects are temporary and mild, such as an upset stomach or sleepiness. But sometimes, a side effect may become a serious problem, such as depression.

Depression is a mental health disorder that can cause prolonged sadness and affect every part of your day-to-day life. Many common prescription drugs list it as a potential side effect. In fact, one oft-cited 2018 study published in JAMA noted it as a side effect for more than 200 medications. Some of the most notable drugs included:

• Painkillers like ibuprofen and tramadol
• Blood pressure medications like metoprolol and atenolol
• Anticonvulsant drugs like gabapentin and diazepam
• Hormonal medications like estradiol and ethinyl estradiol
• Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole and esomeprazole

In the study, about 7 percent of people taking one of these medications developed depression, compared to 5 percent of people who didn’t take the drugs. The depression rate rose to 15 percent for people who took three or more meds.

What to know about your medications

First, it’s important to understand that there isn’t evidence that these medications directly cause depression. Rather, if you are taking them, you may have an increased risk. And taking more than one may enhance that risk. With that in mind, here what you can do.

Talk to your healthcare provider

Always take medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider (HCP). Regardless of potential side effects, never stop taking it without speaking to your HCP first. Depending on your medical issue, this can lead to serious problems, including increased symptoms, faster progression of disease, or even death.

Instead, reach out to your HCP. Tell them your worries, especially if you have a personal or family history of depression. They can help you understand potential side effects of your medications and their interactions with other drugs. If depression is a concern, there could be alternative treatments they can prescribe. A lower dosage of a certain type of drug or a different combination of multiple medications may also be effective for your condition.

If you’re being prescribed a new medication, ask about your HCP about possible side effects.

Understand your medications

Keep a list of your current medications so you and your HCP know exactly what you’re taking. This list should include prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and vitamins, plus the following information for each:

• The dosage, or how much you take
• The frequency, or when and how often you take them
• The reason you’re taking them

You can use a pen and paper, your smartphone, or a mobile app like Sharecare (available for iOS and Android) to help track.

When you receive a new medication from a pharmacy, make sure to read the instructions and warnings that come with it. Look especially for side effects. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration's FDALabel database can help you find additional information.

Track your symptoms

If you take medications that may have depression as a side effect, take note of any unusual, sudden, or acute symptoms you develop. Look especially for changes in mood, sleep habits, and appetite. You may want to ask your loved ones to look for changes in your behavior or habits, as well. Always discuss any concerning symptoms with your HCP.