Can SSRIs Cause Heart Problems?

Miami, FLAmid the discussion about SSRI side effects, such as SSRI birth defects, a new study has opened the possibility of a new, potentially serious SSRI side effect: heart problems in men who take antidepressants. The study, which examined the use of antidepressants in general, suggests that the drugs result in an increased risk of atherosclerosis, which can cause a heart attack or stroke.

The study found that antidepressants were linked to approximately a five percent increase in the thickness of the carotid artery, the artery in the neck that carries blood to the brain. The thickening of arteries is a condition known as atherosclerosis, and can result in an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Although the study suggests a link between the use of antidepressants, including SSRIs, and a risk of atherosclerosis, the study did not prove that SSRIs and other antidepressants cause the atherosclerosis.

The study, as reported by Business Week (04/04/11), involved examining data on approximately 500 male twins. Sixteen percent of those twins were taking an antidepressant. Of those on an antidepressant, 60 percent were taking an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). The remaining 40 percent were taking an older depressant.

Researchers found that the twin who was taking an antidepressant had a thicker carotid artery than the twin not taking an antidepressant, regardless of the antidepressant taken. According to researchers, even a slight increase in the thickness of an artery can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke by approximately two percent.

Patients who are currently taking antidepressants are not advised to stop based on the results of this study. Medical professionals note that more research must be done to determine whether antidepressants cause the thickening of the arteries. The study only involved men and the average age of subjects in the study was 55.

Researchers theorized that the increase of serotonin and norepinephrine brought about through the use of antidepressants could cause blood vessels to constrict, resulting in a decrease of blood flow to the organs.

The results of the study were presented on April 2 to an American Cardiology meeting.