Tag: Hypnic jerks

Up to 70% of adults experience hypnic jerks, or sleep starts, at some point in their lives [1.9.2]. While often benign, certain medications can increase their frequency. But can SSRIs cause hypnic jerks specifically? The answer is yes, this is a recognized, though relatively uncommon, side effect [1.2.2].

Affecting up to 70% of the population, hypnic jerks are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that occur during the transition to sleep. While often benign, certain medications can trigger or intensify these startling movements, leading many to wonder, 'what drugs make you jump in your sleep?'