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The NeuroStar TMS Device: Conducting the FDA Approved Protocol for Treatment of Depression
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Stopping antidepressants: when and how.

Katharine A Wallis1,2

  • 1Mayne Academy of General Practice, The University of Queensland, Brisbane.

Australian Prescriber
|June 18, 2026
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Stopping antidepressants requires careful consideration to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Gradual dose reduction (tapering) is recommended, with strategies varying based on individual risk factors and medication type.

Keywords:
antidepressive agentsdeprescribinggeneral practicesubstance withdrawal syndrome

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Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Pharmacy
  • Psychiatry

Background:

  • Antidepressant use is widespread, with many Australians using them long-term.
  • Prolonged use increases risks of adverse effects, necessitating careful review.
  • Assessing the need for continued antidepressant therapy is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the risks associated with prolonged antidepressant use.
  • To inform decisions regarding the appropriateness of discontinuing antidepressant medication.
  • To discuss strategies for minimizing antidepressant withdrawal symptoms.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical guidelines and literature on antidepressant discontinuation.
  • Analysis of factors influencing antidepressant withdrawal.
  • Description of tapering strategies for various patient risk levels.

Main Results:

  • Abrupt cessation of antidepressants can lead to withdrawal symptoms, particularly with longer treatment durations and specific drugs (e.g., duloxetine, venlafaxine, paroxetine).
  • Gradual dose reduction (tapering) is essential to mitigate withdrawal.
  • Optimal tapering approaches are not definitively established, with individualized strategies necessary.

Conclusions:

  • Discontinuation of antidepressants should be based on a comprehensive assessment of risks and benefits.
  • Slowly decreasing the dose (tapering) is key to minimizing withdrawal symptoms.
  • Tailored tapering plans, potentially involving very small dose decrements over extended periods, may be required for some patients.