Are You Suffering from Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome?

It is important to understand that this specific syndrome is not one that is considered to be "dangerous" in any way, but it can prove to be uncomfortable for the individual that experiences it. Typically, those that experience this will suffer through a variety of symptoms for one to two weeks after stopping antidepressant treatment. In this guide, you will learn more about antidepressant discontinuation syndrome and what you may experience while experiencing it.

Specific Medication That Results in ADS

There are many different types of antidepressant medications on the market today. Popular names include that of:

• Lexapro®

• Luvox®

• Paxil®

• Prozac®

• Zoloft®

It is important that you understand that antidepressant discontinuation syndrome or ADS can be experienced if you stop any of the above listed medications, it is most common in those that have been taking the prescription drug Zoloft® and Paxil®. It is believed that these two medications result in ADS more frequently than other types of antidepressants due to the fact that they affect a larger number of systems throughout the body and work to alter the biochemical composition of the brain.

Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome Symptoms

There are many symptoms associated with antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. These symptoms are quite uncomfortable for the individual that experiences them, but they are not permanent. Within a couple of weeks, the individuals that suffer from symptoms as a direct result from stopping their antidepressant treatment will stop experiencing them. The symptoms are as follows:

• Many will experience mild to severe anxiety when they quit taking their antidepressant medication.

• For many, the mood is affected in a negative way. This is often displayed by outward signs of irritability.

• Gastrointestinal complications such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain may be experienced when an individual is experiencing antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. These complications may be mild, but many describe them as severe.

• Many may experience feelings of sadness, despair, and even anger when they suddenly stop taking antidepressant medication. Many studies have been conducted on the personality as it experiences ADS and scientific evidence shows that individuals that go through ADS may experience personality changes that last for several years - it is unknown why this occurs unless it is related to damage that occurs in the transition from taking the medication to adjusting without the medication.

• Many experience pain, such as headaches. This may or may not be accompanied by dizzy spells, fatigue, and even nausea.

As you can see, antidepressant discontinuation syndrome is a potentially challenging issue to contend with. If you want to stop taking the medication that your doctor has placed you on, it is best to meet with them and explain your position on the matter. They can assist in helping you off the medication so that you do not experience antidepressant discontinuation syndrome.