Antidepressants – The Withdrawal Syndrome
A quick note on new evidence highlighting the withdrawal symptoms some people may face when stopping psychiatric medications.
A major review has today revealed that every year, millions of people around the world get severe side-effects when trying to reduce or stop their antidepressant medication. Scientists in the UK from the APPG (All Party Palimentart Group) that investigate Prescribed Drug Dependence, have announced that medications such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, antipsychotics and stimulants may all be to blame. The review looked at 24 published studies which involved thousands of patients, and came to the conclusion that these patients do in-fact suffer from a withdrawal type syndrome, which goes against previous beliefs. Medical professionals have been advising patients that withdrawal symptoms are mild and short-lived. The review has demonstrated that up to 56% of patients suffer from this withdrawal syndrome – much higher than previously expected. Symptoms include nausea, anxiety or agitation, insomnia and fatigue, among others. This news comes as mental health rates reach an all time high and more help is needed right now, more than ever. If this is something you have suffered from yourself, I’d like to hear from you.
All Things Medicine 