Antidepressants and Your Heart: The Hidden Risks of Long-Term Use - AI Podcast

Story at-a-glance

Long-term antidepressant use significantly increases the risk of sudden cardiac death, with risk doubling after six or more years of use according to Danish research
Younger adults face an even higher risk, with those aged 30 to 39 showing five times greater likelihood of sudden cardiac death after six years on antidepressants
Antidepressants disrupt heart rhythm by affecting ion channels, triggering fatal irregular heartbeat
Research shows antidepressants only benefit about 15% of patients beyond placebo effect, primarily those with severe depression rather than general low mood
Effective alternatives for managing depression include exercise, sunlight exposure, gut health optimization and techniques for nervous system regulation