Withdrawal Symptoms After Stopping SSRI Medication

Problems Associated with Discontinuation of SSRI Medications

Hello, Doctor.
I had been taking Liyou for about 10 months due to symptoms of anxiety (starting from September 2021).
Initially, I was taking 5 mg daily, but later I increased the dosage to 10 mg (from December 2021 to June 2022) due to other issues.
Since my symptoms have improved for quite some time, during my follow-up appointment at the end of June, the doctor said I could start tapering off the medication.
I followed the doctor's advice and took 10 mg every other day for the first two weeks, then reduced to 5 mg every other day for the next two weeks before stopping completely.
However, about 3 to 4 days after stopping the medication, I began experiencing intermittent mild dizziness, which has now persisted for three days.
A few months ago, I also experienced dizziness after not taking the medication for two or three days, which resolved upon resuming the medication.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor if my current condition is likely due to discontinuing the medication.
If so, should I continue to monitor the situation, or do I need to return to see the doctor? Thank you!

Chee, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/04

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

It is indeed possible that the discomfort is caused by suddenly stopping the medication.
It may not be necessary to return to the doctor immediately.
It is suggested to resume taking 2.5 mg daily for a while, and if things improve, then you can consider stopping the medication again.
If the discomfort persists, then it would be advisable to consult a physician.
Dr.
Wu Enliang.

Reply Date: 2022/08/04

More Info

When it comes to understanding withdrawal symptoms after stopping SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) medication, it is essential to recognize that these medications can lead to a range of physiological and psychological effects when discontinued, especially if the cessation is abrupt. In your case, having taken the medication for about ten months, it is not uncommon to experience withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, which you have described.

SSRI withdrawal symptoms can vary widely among individuals and may include dizziness, headaches, nausea, fatigue, irritability, and mood swings. The symptoms you are experiencing—intermittent mild dizziness—could indeed be related to the discontinuation of the SSRI, particularly if they began shortly after you stopped taking the medication. This is often referred to as "discontinuation syndrome," which can occur when the body, having adjusted to the presence of the medication, reacts to its absence.

The gradual tapering of your dosage, as you described, is a common practice to minimize withdrawal symptoms. However, even with a tapering schedule, some individuals may still experience withdrawal effects. The fact that you previously experienced dizziness when missing doses suggests that your body may have become accustomed to the medication, and stopping it could lead to similar sensations.

In terms of what to do next, it is generally advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. If the dizziness persists or worsens, or if you experience additional troubling symptoms, it would be prudent to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation more thoroughly and may suggest reinstating a lower dose of the medication temporarily to help alleviate your symptoms before attempting to discontinue again.
Moreover, it is essential to consider that withdrawal symptoms can sometimes mimic the return of the original anxiety or depression symptoms. Therefore, keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. They can help distinguish between withdrawal symptoms and the resurgence of anxiety or depression, allowing for appropriate management strategies.

In summary, while your current symptoms may indeed be related to the discontinuation of the SSRI, careful observation and communication with your healthcare provider are key. If symptoms persist, a temporary reintroduction of a lower dose may be beneficial, followed by a more gradual tapering process. Always prioritize your mental and physical well-being by seeking professional guidance when needed.

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