Can You Stop Taking Antidepressants? Side Effects and Alternatives

[Medication Consultation] Can I stop taking antidepressants due to side effects?

I have been struggling with anxiety, panic, and depression for a long time and recently sought medical help to address these issues.
I have been experiencing symptoms such as chest tightness, palpitations, and dizziness.
After six months of exercise, my condition has improved, but I have been experiencing frequent panic symptoms that come and go quickly, significantly affecting my daily life.
On May 4th, I visited the hospital to get medication because I still occasionally experience shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, and sudden rapid heartbeat.
However, due to exercise and mental adjustments, my depressive symptoms do not seem severe.
I want to completely eliminate my panic disorder and various autonomic nervous system issues.
The doctor diagnosed me with depression and prescribed the following medications: 1.
Epram (Escitalopram) for depression, 2.
Eripsan-S (Buspirone) for anxiety, and 3.
Cardiolol (a beta-blocker) for heart rhythm regulation.
I was advised to take one of each medication approximately 2-3 hours apart.
However, I started feeling slightly nauseous and shaky for about 1-2 minutes after taking them, which felt like a mild panic attack, making it harder to sleep.
Currently, my depressive symptoms are not severe due to exercise and mental adjustments, but the panic symptoms are more troubling, occurring almost daily (with occasional more severe episodes).
The doctor prescribed a 28-day supply of medication.
I would like to ask if it is possible (or advisable) to stop taking the antidepressant if I only take one pill, as I want to continue with Buspirone and exercise for mental and physical adjustments.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/05

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

The antidepressant should be the most important medication in this prescription.
It is recommended to take it after meals to generally avoid side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
If these side effects still occur, it is advisable to take half a tablet instead, but it is recommended not to discontinue use.
The tranquilizer is merely a symptomatic treatment and does not address the root cause.
Dr.
Wu Enliang.

Reply Date: 2022/05/05

More Info

Stopping antidepressants is a significant decision that should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Your experience with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression is not uncommon, and it’s great to hear that you’ve seen some improvement through exercise and mental health adjustments. However, the symptoms you describe, such as chest tightness, palpitations, dizziness, and nausea after taking the prescribed medications, are concerning and warrant careful consideration.

Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Epram (escitalopram), can be effective for treating depression and anxiety disorders. However, they can also have side effects, especially when starting or adjusting dosages. The symptoms you experienced—nausea, shaking, and increased anxiety—could be side effects of the medication or a reaction to the dosage. It’s essential to communicate these experiences to your prescribing physician, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan.

When considering stopping or reducing your antidepressant medication, here are some important points to keep in mind:
1. Consult Your Doctor: Before making any changes to your medication regimen, it’s crucial to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help assess your current symptoms, the effectiveness of your treatment, and whether it’s appropriate to taper off the medication.

2. Tapering Off: If your doctor agrees that it’s time to stop the medication, they will likely recommend a gradual tapering process rather than an abrupt stop. This method helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and allows your body to adjust to the changes.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur and their intensity. This information can be invaluable for your doctor in determining the best course of action.

4. Alternative Treatments: Since you mentioned that exercise and mental health adjustments have helped, consider discussing these alternatives with your doctor. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, yoga, and other holistic approaches can be effective in managing anxiety and depression.

5. Potential Withdrawal Symptoms: Be aware that stopping antidepressants can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include flu-like symptoms, insomnia, irritability, and a return of depressive or anxiety symptoms. Your doctor can provide guidance on what to expect and how to manage these symptoms.

6. Lifestyle Adjustments: Continue to focus on lifestyle changes that support your mental health. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques can all contribute to improved mental well-being.

7. Support System: Engage with a support system, whether it’s friends, family, or a support group. Sharing your experiences and feelings can provide comfort and encouragement during this transition.

In summary, while it is possible to stop taking antidepressants, it should be done thoughtfully and with professional guidance. Your health and well-being are paramount, and a collaborative approach with your healthcare provider will help ensure that you make the best decision for your situation. Remember, managing anxiety and depression is often a multifaceted process that may require a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

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