Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms from Antidepressants

Antidepressants, irrespective of their type, can lead to withdrawal symptoms. These are reactions that may occur when you taper off or discontinue the medication.

Below, we outline potential withdrawal symptoms associated with different classes of antidepressants. It's important to remember that not everyone will experience these symptoms, but they are common in many cases :

Withdrawal Symptoms from SSRIs and SNRIs

New Symptoms You Might Experience :

• Dizziness or a sensation of spinning (vertigo)
• Sensations resembling electric shocks in the head
• Symptoms similar to flu
• Movement difficulties, such as balance issues, difficulty walking, or involuntary movements
• Sensory disruptions, like perceiving non-existent smells
• Stomach cramps
• Unusual dreams
• Tinnitus, or a ringing sensation in the ears

Symptoms Resembling Original Health Concerns :

• Anxiety
• Episodes of crying
• Feeling disconnected from your environment (depersonalisation)
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Extreme fatigue
• Manic episodes
• Mood fluctuations
• Challenges with concentration and memory
• Thoughts of suicide

Withdrawal Symptoms from Tricyclic Antidepressants

• Anxiety
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Flu-like symptoms, including muscle ache, chills, headaches, nausea, and sweating
• Insomnia
• Low blood pressure
• Movement issues, like balance difficulties or involuntary movements
• Restlessness
• Unexpected orgasm
• Distinctive dreams

Withdrawal Symptoms from MAOIs

• Agitation
• Cognitive difficulties
• Sleep disruptions
• Excessive sleepiness
• Hallucinations
• Irritability
• Paranoid delusions or other psychotic experiences
• Movement problems
• Unique dreams
• Lack of steadiness

Can Switching Antidepressants Ease Withdrawal?

Switching antidepressants may be beneficial, especially if you're experiencing withdrawal from a medication with a short half-life. Opting for a similar antidepressant with a longer half-life could make the process smoother. For instance, transitioning from a short-half-life SSRI to one with a longer half-life might help.