10 Night Sweats Causes

By tallene

Reviewed: Dr. Mera

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Cause #6: Antidepressants

Antidepressants are a common medication that leads to night sweats. More than 1 in 10 adults in the US take an antidepressant. As many as 22% of people taking antidepressants report experiencing night sweats as a side effect. The most commonly prescribed type of antidepressants is the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and therefore they may be one of the more common causes of this symptom in patients.

The mechanism by which antidepressants can induce night sweats in complex. It is well known that the sympathetic nervous system (peripheral nervous system) is the one in charge of releasing neurotransmitters (i.e. acetylcholine) to stimulate sweat gland secretion. On the other hand, in the central nervous system (CNS), regulation of body temperature is given by the interaction between neurons that release serotonin and dopamine. Antidepressants can affect any of those mechanisms. Consequently, medication to decrease sweating usually targets these sites (peripheral or CNS neurons). In order to treat this symptom, stopping, decreasing or changing antidepressants are options, but patients can be reluctant if these have successfully relieved their symptoms. In some cases, adding a medication to reduce night sweats may be more appropriate. Remember to always consult with your physician about the most appropriate treatment options for you.