Antidepressant use should stop gradually

BOSTON, Nov. 9 (UPI) -- People who take an antidepressant and feel better as a result should not suddenly stop the medication but consult their physician, a U.S. newsletter says.

"Suddenly stopping an antidepressant can cause a number of physical and emotional problems that include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sweating or flushing, sleep disturbances, tremors, irritability, or strange sensations," the November issue of Harvard Women's Health Watch says. "The best way to minimize or prevent these problems is by gradually lowering the dose -- tapering off -- over weeks to months. Sometimes this process involves substituting other medications for the one you are quitting."

The newsletter advises patients consider that:

-- Depression can return if a person stops taking an antidepressant too soon. Clinicians generally recommend sticking with the drug for six to nine months before stopping the medication.

-- Going off an antidepressant involves a weaning process -- reducing the dose in increments -- so allow two to six weeks or more between dose reductions.

-- Staying in touch with a clinician during the weaning process. Tell the doctor or therapist about any physical or emotional symptoms and check in one month after the medication has been stopped.