Changes in Metabolism

• According to a study conducted by Forest Laboratiories, Inc. in 2004, adverse metabolic reactions included hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia and hyponatremia.
  
  

Hyperglycemia

• Too much sugarsugar-basin and lump-sugar image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com
  
  Hyperglycemia is a condition caused by an elevation of blood glucose levels. When the level of glucose in the blood is excessive--more than the body needs for energy--excess sugar is stored as fat.
  
  

Hypoglycemia

• Not enough sugarsugar image by Henryk Olszewski from Fotolia.com
  
  Hypoglycemia, on the other hand, occurs when blood sugar is low. Low blood sugar causes the body to go into storing mode, resulting in more sugar stored than converted to glycogen--sugar in the form of fuel--for energy.
  
  

Hypokalemia

• Potassium depletionbanana image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
  
  Hypokalemia results from low blood potassium levels (K+). Dramatic changes in blood potassium compromises the nervous system and normal function of the heart. In extreme cases, it can even be fatal.
  
  

Hyponatremia

• Too little saltflask bathing salt image by Fotocie from Fotolia.com
  
  Hyponatremia results from a low concentration of sodium in the blood, a condition often linked to diuretics and antidepressants, in addition to hypothyroidism and cortisone deficiencies, such as in Addison's disease. Symptoms include bloating, vomiting, headache, disorientation and muscle weakness.
  
  

Counterproductive to Curbing Depression

• Weight gain got you down?sad image by Alexandra Gnatush-Kostenko from Fotolia.com
  
  Due to these adverse metabolic affects, it has been suggested that Lexapro and other anti-depressants may actually increase depression. Patients are advised to talk to their doctors about alternative treatments, if they experience such reactions.