[Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome : recognition and management]

Nearly one in ten individuals in Switzerland receives antidepressant treatment, yet more than half discontinue it within six months, most often without medical supervision. Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome is a common but still underrecognized consequence of treatment interruption and is often mistaken for depressive relapse. Reported incidence rates vary widely in the literature (15-55%), reflecting considerable methodological heterogeneity across studies. A consensus nevertheless supports gradual, individualized, and often hyperbolic tapering strategies, adapted to the drug's half-life and the patient's clinical profile. Close clinical follow-up and clear patient information remain essential to ensure a safe and well-tolerated discontinuation process.