Item 1 of 5
Item 2 of 5
Item 4 of 5
Choose the health content that’s right for you, and get it delivered right in your inbox.
When properly managed, antidepressants can be a life-changing treatment for conditions like depression and anxiety. But when it’s time to stop using them — whether because you’re feeling stronger in your mental health journey or you’re simply ready for a change — coming off them can sometimes bring unexpected challenges.
Keep reading to learn the signs and symptoms of antidepressant withdrawal as well as practical strategies to help you manage the physical and emotional effects of withdrawal safely and confidently.
When a person stops taking antidepressants, especially if they stop abruptly or reduce their dosage rapidly, they may experience a range of symptoms. This condition is known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome or antidepressant withdrawal syndrome. Side effects may include:
Though many people may experience one or more of these antidepressant withdrawal symptoms, some people may not notice any symptoms at all. Generally, symptoms tend to resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, they sometimes linger for a couple of months, particularly in patients who’ve been on antidepressants for longer periods of time. Very rarely, some people may experience one or more symptoms for a year or longer. Symptoms are more likely to occur (and be more severe) when you abruptly stop taking your medication, which is why it’s important to wean yourself off of it slowly.
Researchers have not yet determined a direct cause for why stopping antidepressants can affect one person more than another, but some risk factors that may increase your risk of side effects include:
Coming off any antidepressant can potentially lead to withdrawal symptoms, but symptoms may be more likely for people taking certain medications, including:
These medications metabolize in your body much quicker than other antidepressants such as escitalopram (Lexapro) or sertraline (Zoloft), which have a medium risk of withdrawal, or fluoxetine (Prozac), which metabolizes slower than most other antidepressants.
If you plan to stop taking antidepressants, it’s important to talk with your doctor beforehand, as coming off antidepressants can increase your risk of anxiety or depression returning, suicidal ideation or mania. Your doctor will want to monitor your symptoms and can offer specific guidance on tapering yourself off the medication to help avoid or minimize potential withdrawal symptoms.
Managing antidepressant withdrawal may feel difficult, especially if you don’t know what to expect. Here are a few tips that may help you find some relief during this time:
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are OK to take for headache relief. To help relieve any nausea or vomiting, you can ask your doctor for an ondansetron (Zofran) prescription.
For anxiety or insomnia, you can consider an antihistamine, like Benadryl, or try techniques like deep breathing, creating a relaxing bedtime routine. Ask your doctor about any potential side effects with your existing medications before taking over-the-counter melatonin.
Symptoms may differ from person to person, depending on which medication they took and how long they were on it. Generally, symptoms tend to resolve within a few weeks, though some may linger for months or, rarely, a year or more.
Your doctor can offer specific guidance based on your medication and current dose. Tapering off an antidepressant can take a few months, as you’ll typically need to stay on each lesser dose for two to six weeks before reducing further.
Brain zaps are a common symptom of antidepressant withdrawal, though they’re not fully understood. These short, electric shock-like sensations can feel alarming or uncomfortable. However, they usually aren’t dangerous — though you should still let your doctor know if you’re experiencing them, especially if they interfere with your daily activities. These zaps typically last about a second or two and can feel like a jolt inside your head or behind your eyes. Some people report hearing a “swoosh” or “crackle” sound during these experiences.
Tapering off antidepressants and navigating the symptoms may feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Our behavioral health specialists are skilled in medication management and can help you throughout your mental health journey. Find a doctor near you today.
Our website uses cookies. Please review our privacy policy to find out more about the cookies we use. Browsing our website means you accept these terms.
