Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome

A cluster of symptoms that can follow dose reduction or cessation of an antidepressant, particularly abrupt cessation. Symptoms often begin within days and vary with the medication and individual.

Serotonin: A neurotransmitter involved in mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions. Changes in serotonergic signaling help explain symptoms after reducing some antidepressants.
Antidepressant tapering: The gradual reduction of an antidepressant dose before stopping it. A planned taper can reduce abrupt changes in drug exposure, though the schedule is individualized.
Antidepressant dependence: A state in which stopping a medication can produce withdrawal effects or other consequences of adaptation. Discontinuation symptoms can occur without compulsive use, so dependence is not synonymous with addiction.
Paroxetine: A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used to treat depression and several anxiety disorders. Its relatively short half-life is associated with a greater risk of symptoms after missed doses or abrupt cessation.
Antidepressant half-life: The time required for the concentration of a drug in the body to fall by half. Shorter half-lives can make drug levels fall quickly after missed doses or cessation.
Antidepressant withdrawal symptoms: Physical and psychological symptoms that can occur after reducing or stopping an antidepressant. This symptom-focused concept covers the experiences grouped under the syndrome.
Antidepressant addiction: A pattern of compulsive medication use despite harm, involving craving or impaired control. The syndrome is not evidence by itself of compulsive use or addiction.
Venlafaxine: A serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Its relatively short half-life can make discontinuation symptoms emerge quickly after dose changes.
Neuroadaptation: Changes in neural function that develop in response to repeated experiences or exposures. Adaptations during treatment may take time to adjust after medication levels decline.
Antidepressant withdrawal scale: A clinical questionnaire used to assess symptoms associated with antidepressant discontinuation. Structured symptom assessment can help track changes during dose reduction.

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