In patients using SSRIs, which of the following might be an unexpected outcome related to gastrointestinal health?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can significantly impact gastrointestinal health, and one of the common and unexpected outcomes is diarrhea. This is primarily attributed to the influence of serotonin on the gut, as about 90% of the body's serotonin is located in the gastrointestinal tract. When SSRIs increase serotonin levels in the brain, they can also inadvertently increase gastrointestinal motility, leading to diarrhea in some patients.

While some patients may experience changes in appetite or even constipation due to hormonal and digestive changes caused by SSRIs, diarrhea has been well-documented as a potential side effect. Increased gastrointestinal activity or motility induced by SSRIs can lead to frequent loose stools, making this an important consideration for healthcare providers when prescribing these medications.

In summary, diarrhea stands out as a notable and unexpected gastrointestinal outcome for patients on SSRIs, reflecting the intricate connection between serotonin regulation and gut function.