Are you on a SSRI?

Why SSRIs May Be Doing More Harm Than Good – And How TRT Could Be a Better Solution

For years, the negative side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have puzzled researchers. Among the most concerning are decreased libido, weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, and blood glucose imbalances. While these side effects are commonly accepted as part of SSRIs' profile, new research is shedding light on the root causes behind these issues and it's not looking good for these commonly prescribed medications.

A 2017 study revealed that six (fluoxetine, paroxetine, citalopram, escitalopram, sertraline and fluvoxamine) of the most commonly used SSRIs in the world inhibited steroidogenesis, which is the process the body uses to produce steroid hormones, particularly androgens (testosterone). Surprisingly, these medications didn’t just leave the body with lower levels of crucial hormones like testosterone they also increased estrogen production, putting patients at a much higher risk of metabolic dysfunction and other hormonal imbalances.

This is a concerning discovery, but it gets worse. Recent studies show that SSRIs contribute significantly to hypogonadism (low levels of testosterone) and, in some cases, even act as cytotoxic agents meaning they damage cells in the ovaries and testicles, increase oxidative stress, and reduce sperm count and quality. The damage doesn’t stop there; SSRIs also appear to be cytotoxic to the pancreas. This disruption likely contributes to the increased incidence of metabolic dysfunction, weight gain, and even type 2 diabetes in those who take SSRIs.

But what about the thyroid? Well, unfortunately, SSRIs do impact thyroid function as well. They severely alter the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, leading to low levels of T4 and T3 (the active thyroid hormones), even while TSH levels remain normal. This is a serious issue, as low T3 is often associated with conditions like major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). However, most primary care physicians won’t catch this problem if they're only measuring TSH levels.

What are the implications of this research?

The findings suggest that SSRIs not only harm the reproductive system but also hinder metabolic function and thyroid health, creating a perfect storm of side effects that leave patients worse off than before they started treatment.

So, what's the solution?

I believe it's time to shift our focus from SSRIs and embrace bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), including testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), as a safer, more effective, and holistic approach to treating mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, while improving physical health.

TRT offers numerous benefits that SSRIs simply can’t match. Restoring testosterone to optimal levels can help alleviate symptoms of depression, boost energy, improve libido, and even support cognitive function. When paired with a healthy diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes, TRT can have a transformative effect on mental and physical health. Unlike SSRIs, which cause imbalances in the body’s natural hormone production, TRT directly addresses the root causes of low testosterone and related health issues, offering a more sustainable and side-effect-free solution.

In fact, TRT has the potential to not only restore physical vitality but also improve mental clarity, focus, and emotional well-being without the negative metabolic effects commonly associated with SSRIs.

For those struggling with symptoms of low testosterone and mental health concerns, TRT could be the key to regaining balance and living a more fulfilling life.

For the sake of our patients’ mental, emotional, reproductive, sexual, and physical health, we must explore better alternatives to SSRIs. BHRT, including TRT, offers a promising path forward one that addresses the root causes of the issues, rather than just masking symptoms.

At Wellness Culture in Wichita, Kansas, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal health by offering personalized hormone replacement therapy options tailored to your unique needs. If you’re ready to take control of your mental and physical well-being, contact us today to learn more about how TRT and BHRT can help you feel your best.