With the recent rise in mental health issues and the fact that it is also being acknowledged and addressed, many people have utilised medical support and antidepressants to help control symptoms of depression and anxiety. Some people report that these medications are life-altering, and have helped them for good. However, one common concern everyone seems to raise is what happens when people try to quit taking the medication.
According to our expert, Dr Nikhil Nayar, Psychiatrist, Sharda Hospital — Noida, one of the most common questions that appears is ‘Is antidepressant withdrawal a valid cause of alarm?’ In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, he answered the query and shared tips to deal with antidepressant withdrawal symptoms. Here is what he shared with us.
Understanding Antidepressant Withdrawal
“Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome is one of the phenomena that may develop in a patient who stops antidepressant medication abruptly or who tapers off too quickly,” explained Dr Nayar. Symptoms differ in severity and duration, depending on the medication involved, the dose, and individual reaction. Some common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- Mood fluctuations
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Brain zaps (a feeling of electric shocks in the brain)
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“While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are typically temporary and resolve within a few weeks. However, in some cases, withdrawal can be more severe, leading to distressing physical and psychological symptoms that interfere with daily life,” he added.
Talking about the science behind these withdrawal symptoms. Dr Nayar pointed out, “The drugs work by altering the level of neurotransmitters in the brain, especially serotonin. When a patient stops using the medication, the brain will take some time to adjust to the sudden shift in serotonin levels, thus the withdrawal symptoms.”
How to Reduce Withdrawal Symptoms
Steps to avoid full-blown withdrawals include the following:
1. Gradual tapering
Often, doctors prescribe tapering over weeks or months instead of suddenly stopping antidepressants to allow the brain to get accustomed to this change. Hence, if you or someone you know is on antidepressants, make sure that you don't cut it out abruptly.
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2. Healthcare Supervision
Consult a health provider before attempting to stop taking the medication so that it can be done in a safe and manageable manner.
3. Lifestyle Support
A healthy diet, regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and mindfulness practice help mitigate withdrawal symptoms.
4. Alternative Therapies
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other non-medication treatments can support mental health during and after medication withdrawal.
Bottomline
The withdrawal symptoms of antidepressants are real but manageable. They are uncomfortable, yet certainly not so ominous if handled correctly. It can, working closely with a healthcare provider and gradually and inescapably, be managed such that there is minimal distress for a person in this transition. Remember that prioritising mental well-being should always be the key focus in any medication decision.