What is a potential risk of abrupt discontinuation of antidepressants?

Abrupt discontinuation of antidepressants can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which is a recognized phenomenon in pharmacotherapy, particularly with certain classes of antidepressants. These symptoms may include dizziness, flu-like symptoms, insomnia, irritability, and a return of depressive symptoms, among others. The body adapts to the presence of the medication, and suddenly stopping can disrupt that balance, causing physical and psychological distress.

This issue is especially notable with certain types of antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), where discontinuation can provoke these withdrawal symptoms very suddenly. Therefore, it is critical for patients to consult healthcare providers before making any changes to their medication regimen, including stopping it altogether. Proper tapering can help mitigate these risks.

In contrast, instant recovery, increased appetite, and reduced effectiveness do not typically result from abrupt discontinuation. Instant recovery is not a typical outcome, as stopping the medication can often lead to worsening of depressive symptoms rather than improvement. Withdrawal symptoms are more commonly experienced than increased appetite upon discontinuation. Reduced effectiveness refers more to potential issues that arise with prolonged use rather than an immediate consequence of stopping treatment.