- Antidepressants. There are 30 million Americans who now take antidepressants to treat depression, chronic pain, anxiety, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, smoking cessation and severe menstrual cramps. Fatigue is a common side effect that can start soon after taking the medication. Antidepressants have a smothering effect on the brain’s neurotransmitters and the production of serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Benzodiazepines. These are commonly referred to as “tranquilizers.” This class of drugs is used to treat muscle spasms, anxiety disorders, agitation and to prevent seizures. Also, because of the sedative effect, it is sometimes used to treat insomnia and the anxiety component of depression. Benzodiazepines dampens activity in the central nervous system, slowing down the brain’s firing in response to stimuli.
- Blood-pressure medications. These drugs are used to lower pressure inside of the blood vessel so the heart doesn’t have to work so hard. It is hoped that this will prevent heart attacks and strokes. These meds work by slowing the pumping action of the heart, as well as depressing the central nervous system. Diuretics can deplete the body of vitamins and minerals, lowering energy levels.
- Statins. These drugs are used to treat high cholesterol. It is thought that statins inhibit muscle growth and production of energy at the cellular level. They inhibit the production of satellite cells in muscle, which stops muscle growth. Patients may experience a steady drop in energy levels.
- Antihistamines. These meds, often OTC, are used to alleviate or prevent allergic reactions and also used to prevent symptoms of the common cold. Other uses include treatment of nausea, vomiting, motion sickness, dizziness, anxiety and insomnia. Antihistamines are central nervous system depressants and as such, older patients should be aware that with this reaction comes an increase in the likelihood of a fall. Also, histamine blockers often cause drowsiness, tiredness and over time, with continuing use, fatigue can become chronic.