Like all medications, antidepressants can have side effects, which depend on the mechanism of action of each drug and usually improve as treatment progresses. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, and sexual dysfunction.

People who do not tolerate these medications well can start the regimen with a low dose, increase the daily dose very slowly, and adjust the timing of taking the medication (for example, at bedtime or with meals).

If the person cannot tolerate the adverse effects, they should talk to their doctor, as the doctor can advise them on the steps to take or suggest a change in treatment.