How Long Does It Take to Recover After Stopping Medication?

Q: How Long Does It Take to Recover After Stopping Medication?

Hello： I apologize for the delay in my response as I just saw the notification from the system. <br>Levofloxacin is considered a relatively mild sedative, so there is not much concern regarding addiction. <br>However, stopping it too quickly may lead to rebound insomnia. <br>I be

How long will it take to recover after stopping medication for three months?

Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about medication issues.
I have been experiencing gastric pain due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and I never had insomnia before taking the medication.
After being prescribed Lurasidone for over three months, a pharmacist friend informed me that this medication can be addictive, so I decided to taper off on my own.
It has been three weeks since I stopped taking it, and now, almost three months later, I still have trouble sleeping.
I can fall asleep quickly, but I wake up after 2-3 hours.
I am unsure how much longer this will last.
Will I have to deal with this for the rest of my life? Is there a possibility that my brain has been damaged and won't recover? Currently, I am seeing another doctor who prescribed half a dose of Mirtazapine and one dose of Doxepin, but I still wake up after 2-3 hours.
I hope a kind doctor can see my issue and respond to help me.

Xiao Hao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/03

Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry

Hello: I apologize for the delay in my response as I just saw the notification from the system.
Levofloxacin is considered a relatively mild sedative, so there is not much concern regarding addiction.
However, stopping it too quickly may lead to rebound insomnia.
I believe that your current sleep difficulties are less likely to be caused by the medication leading to brain damage, but rather due to unresolved issues with your autonomic nervous system dysfunction or sleep disorders.

Sleep disorders can arise from various factors, including emotions, stress, sleep environment, and physical conditions, which may ultimately affect the sleep center in the hypothalamus.
I recommend reflecting on the potential factors contributing to your insomnia and working on improving them.
Additionally, correcting some poor sleep habits (such as drinking tea or coffee in the afternoon, engaging in vigorous exercise before bed, or using your phone in bed) is advisable.
Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and incorporating aerobic exercise weekly can also be beneficial.
If you prefer not to pursue medication treatment, you may consider cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia.
I hope this answers your questions :)

Reply Date: 2021/11/03

More Info

When it comes to recovering after stopping medication, particularly those used for anxiety or sleep disorders, the timeline can vary significantly from person to person. In your case, it seems you have been taking a medication called "樂穩錠" (likely a brand name for a benzodiazepine or similar anxiolytic) for over three months, and after tapering off, you are experiencing sleep disturbances that have persisted for nearly three months.
Firstly, it's important to understand that medications like benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence, and discontinuation can result in withdrawal symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety, and other physical symptoms. The timeline for recovery from these symptoms can vary widely. Some individuals may start to feel better within a few weeks, while others may take several months to fully recover.
In your situation, the fact that you are able to fall asleep but wake up after 2-3 hours indicates that your sleep architecture may still be disrupted. This can be a common occurrence after stopping medications that affect the central nervous system. The brain may take time to recalibrate its natural sleep-wake cycle, especially after prolonged use of sedative medications.
Regarding your concerns about long-term effects, such as potential brain damage, it's essential to note that while long-term use of certain medications can lead to cognitive impairments, most individuals do not experience permanent damage. The brain is remarkably resilient and often can recover its normal function after a period of abstinence from the medication. However, this recovery can depend on various factors, including the duration of medication use, the specific medication, individual health conditions, and lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, and exercise.

As for your current medication, "美舒鬱" (likely a brand name for an antidepressant or a different class of medication), it may take some time for your body to adjust to this new treatment. Antidepressants can take several weeks to show their full effects, and they may also have side effects during the initial adjustment period.
If you are concerned about your sleep and overall mental health, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can help you assess your symptoms, consider any underlying issues, and potentially adjust your treatment plan. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia is also an effective approach that can help you develop better sleep habits and address the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sleep disturbances.

In summary, recovery after stopping medication can take time, and while it may feel discouraging, many individuals do find relief and return to a more stable state of sleep and mental health. It's essential to be patient with yourself during this process and seek support from healthcare professionals who can guide you through your recovery journey.

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