Many people with depression, who have tried to stop taking antidepressants have encountered withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include: crying spells, extreme restlessness, dizziness, fatigue, and aches and pains. Others are:
- Anxiety, agitation
- Depression, mood swings
- Flu-like symptoms
- Irritability and aggression
- Insomnia, nightmares
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness, loss of coordination
- Stomach cramping and pain
- Electric shock sensations
- Tremor, muscle spasms
Together these are known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome is especially common with Paxil and Zoloft.
Experiencing anxiety and depression is another possible side effect. Often the experienced depression will be worse than it was to start off with. That’s why it’s unfortunate that some people stop with their medication only to start again after which they stop again and so on.
To avoid antidepressant discontinuation syndrome it’s best not to stop cold turkey. Instead lower the dose you take every 1.5 or 2 weeks. This process may take a few months and should always be monitored by your doctor.
The next post will be about suicide prevention and how to spot the warning signs.
Recent Comments