Do I Have Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome?

Have you been taking an antidepressant medication continuously for at least 1 month?

Have you abruptly ceased taking (or reduced the dose) of the antidepressant medication?

Did you experience specific sensory, somatic, and cognitive-emotional symptoms (e.g., flashes of lights, "electric shock" sensations, nausea, hypersensitivity to noises or lights, nonspecific anxiety and feelings of dread) within 2-4 days after discontinuation of the antidepressant?

Are you sure that the symptoms were not present before the antidepressant dosage was reduced or discontinued?

Are you sure that the symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder (e.g., manic or hypomanic episode, substance intoxication, substance withdrawal, somatic symptom disorder)?

Based on your answer, it is unlikely that you have antidepressant discontinuation syndrome.

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have antidepressant discontinuation syndrome.

It is unlikely that you have antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, but you are displaying some symptoms associated with the condition. Discontinuation symptoms are almost never fatal, but they can cause discomfort and psychological impairment. The symptoms are likely to occur in the first week after ceasing to use the antidepressant, and they usually go away between 1 day and 3 weeks after onset. In most cases, they last around 10 days.

While it is unlikely that you have antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, you are displaying some symptoms associated with the condition. Seeking medical support in this case is advised. Your doctor may decide to prescribe the medication again at a low dosage or substituting the medication.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. Seeking medical support in this case is highly advised. Your doctor will first explain you what the syndrome is about and that it is a reversible condition. Discontinuation symptoms are like flu symptoms (including nausea, imbalance, insomnia, and hyperarousal). In most cases, taking the antidepressant again is the right management strategy for treating the symptoms.