Deciding to come off antidepressants is a valid and common step — but how you do it matters a great deal. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant effects and increase the risk of relapse. This is general information; any change to your medication should be planned with your doctor.
Don’t stop suddenly
The most important message: don’t stop antidepressants abruptly, and don’t stop without talking to your prescriber. Coming off gradually, under guidance, is far safer and more comfortable than stopping cold.
Why tapering matters
Your brain adjusts to a medication over time. When you stop too quickly, it needs time to readjust — and stopping abruptly can trigger discontinuation effects. These can include:
- Flu-like symptoms, dizziness or “brain zaps”
- Nausea, headaches
- Irritability, anxiety, low mood or sleep disturbance
These are usually temporary, but they can be distressing and are easily mistaken for relapse. Tapering slowly minimises them.
Discontinuation effects vs relapse
It’s worth knowing the difference: discontinuation effects tend to come on soon after reducing the dose and ease over days to a couple of weeks; a relapse of depression or anxiety usually builds more gradually and looks like your original symptoms returning. Your doctor can help you tell them apart — which is one reason to stop with support rather than alone.
How to do it safely
- Talk to your prescriber first. Timing matters — coming off during a stable period is usually better than during high stress.
- Taper gradually. Your doctor will guide a step-down schedule suited to your medication and dose.
- Go slower if needed. If effects are difficult, the taper can be slowed.
- Keep support in place. Therapy, lifestyle support and monitoring reduce relapse risk.
Getting specialist input
If you’re considering coming off, or have struggled to before, a psychiatrist can help you do it safely and plan for staying well. Our online psychiatry service can help — book an appointment with a referral.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Never change or stop medication except under your doctor’s guidance. In a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000.