Which side effect is NOT often seen with the use of SSRIs?

The correct answer is cardiotoxicity. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed antidepressants known for their effectiveness in treating mood disorders with a generally favorable side effect profile. While they can lead to various side effects, cardiotoxicity is not typically associated with these medications.

Sexual dysfunction is a well-documented side effect of SSRIs. Many patients report issues such as decreased libido, delayed orgasm, or anorgasmia. Sleep disturbances are also relatively common, where some individuals may experience insomnia or alterations in sleep patterns, potentially due to the stimulating effects of increased serotonin levels.

Weight gain can occur with long-term use of some SSRIs, though it varies from person to person. Factors such as individual metabolism, lifestyle, and the specific SSRI prescribed may contribute to changes in weight.

In contrast, cardiotoxicity refers to damage to the heart muscle or a decline in heart function, which is more often associated with other classes of medications or underlying medical conditions. SSRIs are not typically linked to these adverse cardiovascular effects, making cardiotoxicity the outlier in this list of side effects.