A meta-analysis by researchers from the U.K. finds an association between antidepressant use and a modestly increased risk of diabetes. “Our research shows that when you take away all the classic risk factors of type 2 diabetes; weight gain, lifestyle, etc., there is something about antidepressants that appears to be an independent risk factor,” says one author. “This potential increased risk is worrying.” The authors note that the studies reviewed were inconsistent, and that a causal link could not be established. Results appear in the October issue of Diabetes Care.
Barnard, K., Peveler, R., Holt, R.; Antidepressant Medication as a Risk Factor for Type 2 Diabetes and Impaired Glucose Regulation. Diabetes Care. October 2013 vol. 36 no. 10 3337-3345. doi: 10.2337/dc13-0560
Of further interest:
Is there a link between taking antidepressants and diabetes? (WebMD)
Antidepressant drugs linked to type 2 diabetes and other health problems (All Voices)
