Unexpected Side Effects of Common Medications You Should Discuss With Your Doctor

21. SSRIs and Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): A Nighttime Surprise

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely prescribed for depression and anxiety, but they can occasionally trigger or worsen bruxism—unconscious teeth grinding during sleep. This side effect may go unnoticed until jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth start showing up. While not fully understood, the mechanism likely involves changes in serotonin levels that affect muscle control. If you wake up with sore jaws or your dentist spots unusual wear, your medication could be involved. Solutions include dosage adjustments, switching antidepressants, or using a nighttime mouthguard. It’s fixable—but only if it’s caught.

22. Diuretics and Gout Flare-Ups: The Hidden Trigger

Diuretics, often prescribed for high blood pressure or fluid retention, can ironically raise uric acid levels and increase the risk of gout attacks. These medications reduce fluid volume by encouraging urination—but in doing so, they also concentrate uric acid in the bloodstream. For those predisposed to gout, that’s a recipe for sudden, painful joint inflammation—often in the big toe. If you’ve developed unexplained foot pain while on a diuretic, it’s worth a conversation. Your doctor may adjust your meds, add a gout-specific treatment, or recommend dietary changes to prevent future flare-ups.