Fatigue is a common complaint accounting for more than 10 million primary care visits each year. In fact, nearly 50% of the population will report feeling fatigued if asked.

Aside from the obvious causes of fatigue such as a recent viral illness, inadequate sleep, stress or overwork, medications can be the culprit.

There are 8 classes of medications that can directly contribute to fatigue, but in fact, fatigue that begins after the start of any medication should be suspected.

The 8 types of medications are:

1. Analgesics (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, narcotics)
2. Antibiotics (tetracycline)
3. Antihistamines (especially the older generations of antihistamines such as Benadryl)
4. Anti-hypertensive meds (Beta blockers and centrally acting antihypertensives)
5. Gout medications (colchicine)
6. Corticosteroids
7. Oral contraceptives
8. Psychotropics (anti-depressants, sedatives and hypnotics and tranquilizers)

A simple test to determine if the medication is causing fatigue is to stop the medication and see if the symptoms resolve. However, some of the above medications should NOT be abruptly stopped so never stop your medications without consulting with your provider beforehand.

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