Withdrawal Symptoms After Stopping Medication: A Patient's Journey

Drug withdrawal

Hello, doctor.
Due to work-related issues, I have been experiencing sleep deprivation for the past two weeks, waking up around 4-5 AM.
I visited a psychiatrist to see if there were any solutions.
The doctor used instruments to test and diagnosed me with mild autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and prescribed me with antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication.
After taking them for a week and two days, I felt mentally disoriented, my body was unresponsive, and my sleep did not improve.
I decided to stop the medication on my own.
After discontinuing, I experienced dizziness, tinnitus, involuntary body tremors, difficulty thinking, fluctuating vision, restlessness, and unexplained anxiety, panic, and irritability.
When I finally managed to fall asleep, my heart would race intensely a few minutes after falling asleep, preventing me from staying asleep.
It has been 22 days since I stopped the medication.
I would like to know if withdrawal symptoms typically require a month to resolve.

A-Hung, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/08

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
Anxiolytic medications generally have fewer withdrawal issues (theoretically, they are less addictive).
If there are withdrawal symptoms, they are likely related to sleep and anti-anxiety medications.
However, improvement should typically be seen after about two weeks.
Regarding your concerns, it is also possible that these symptoms are related to autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
I recommend consulting your original physician for an evaluation to clarify whether it is withdrawal or symptoms, which will help in managing your condition.

Reply Date: 2023/01/08

More Info

Withdrawal symptoms can be a challenging and distressing experience for many individuals who have recently stopped taking medication, particularly those related to mental health, such as anxiolytics or antidepressants. Your symptoms, including dizziness, tinnitus, involuntary body movements, cognitive difficulties, and heightened anxiety, are not uncommon among individuals who abruptly discontinue these types of medications.
When medications like benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax) or certain antidepressants are stopped suddenly, the body can react negatively due to the physiological changes that have occurred during the period of use. These medications often work by altering neurotransmitter levels in the brain, and when they are removed, the brain may struggle to regain its natural balance, leading to withdrawal symptoms.

1. Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms: Withdrawal symptoms can vary widely among individuals and can include anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, tremors, and cognitive disturbances. The duration and intensity of these symptoms can depend on several factors, including the specific medication, the duration of use, the dosage, and individual physiological differences. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can last for weeks or even months, but they typically begin to improve within a few days to weeks after stopping the medication.

2. Duration of Withdrawal Symptoms: While some individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms for a month or longer, many find that symptoms begin to subside significantly within a few weeks. It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can help assess your situation and provide guidance on managing withdrawal symptoms effectively.

3. Managing Withdrawal Symptoms: Here are some strategies that may help alleviate withdrawal symptoms:
- Gradual Tapering: If you have not already done so, consider discussing a gradual tapering schedule with your healthcare provider. This approach can help minimize withdrawal symptoms by allowing your body to adjust slowly to lower medication levels.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and practicing relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or yoga can help improve overall well-being and reduce anxiety.

- Hydration and Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and consuming a nutritious diet can support your body during this transition.

- Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a consistent sleep routine and creating a calming bedtime environment can help improve sleep quality.

- Support Systems: Consider reaching out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support during this time. Sharing your experiences with others who have gone through similar situations can be beneficial.

4. When to Seek Help: If your symptoms become overwhelming or significantly interfere with your daily life, it is crucial to seek professional help. A healthcare provider can offer additional support, whether through medication adjustments, therapy, or other interventions.

In conclusion, while withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and distressing, they are often temporary and manageable with the right support and strategies. It is essential to remain patient with yourself during this process and to seek help when needed. Your health and well-being are paramount, and working closely with a healthcare provider can help you navigate this challenging time.

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