Thinking about stopping your antidepressants?
Are you considering stopping your antidepressant medication? Before you go cold turkey, it’s essential to understand the potential risks.
A recent report published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal found 1 in 6 people who stop taking an antidepressant experience symptoms caused by discontinuing their medication, while 1 in 35 people experience severe symptoms.
One way to prevent discontinuation symptoms is to taper off your antidepressant. This involves slowly taking a smaller dosage of your medication over a period of weeks or months.
“Stopping antidepressants is a significant decision that should be made between you and your doctor,” says Dr. Ashley Francesca Shi, a psychiatrist at Advocate Health Care. “A gradual tapering plan that is tailored to your specific needs can help reduce the risk of serious side effects.”
Your doctor will consider how long you have been on the medication, the type of medication and your discontinuation symptoms.
A condition known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome (ADS) encompasses a range of symptoms that may arise when you abruptly stop or significantly reduce your antidepressant dosage.
Common symptoms of ADS include:
- Flu-like sensations: Fatigue, headaches, muscle aches and sweating.
- Insomnia or vivid dreams: Disruptions in your sleep patterns.
- Nausea: Feelings of queasiness or upset stomach.
- Imbalance: Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Sensory disturbances: Sensations often described as “brain zaps” or electric shock-like experiences.
- Hyperarousal: Heightened irritability, anxiety or agitation.
Certain antidepressants carry a higher risk of severe symptoms once they are stopped. These include imipramine, paroxetine and venlafaxine.
Whatever your reason is for no longer wanting to take your antidepressant, it’s important to stop taking it correctly and under your health care provider’s supervision.
Are you trying to find a doctor? Find one in Illinois or Wisconsin.
