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yesterday

Long-Term Antidepressant Use Linked to Higher Risk of Severe Withdrawal Symptoms

A UCL study finds that patients using antidepressants for over two years face greater challenges discontinuing the medication, with intensified and prolonged withdrawal effects.

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Most participants – 62% – reported that antidepressants had been helpful to them. Credit: Neuroscience News
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Overview

  • The study, published in Psychiatry Research, reveals a tenfold increase in withdrawal symptom likelihood for those using antidepressants for more than two years compared to under six months.
  • Long-term users report more severe withdrawal symptoms, with 25% experiencing severe effects and 12% enduring symptoms for over a year.
  • Among participants taking antidepressants for over two years, 79% were unable to successfully discontinue the medication when attempting to stop.
  • Withdrawal symptoms include both emotional (e.g., anxiety, worsened mood) and non-emotional (e.g., dizziness, headache, nausea) effects, with 76% of respondents reporting at least one non-emotional symptom.
  • Experts recommend gradual tapering and consultation with informed healthcare professionals to mitigate withdrawal challenges and ensure safe discontinuation.