What should a nurse inform a client about the risk of discontinuation syndrome with SSRIs?

Discontinuation syndrome is a potential risk associated with the abrupt cessation of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is important for clients to understand that this syndrome can manifest with various symptoms, such as dizziness, nausea, irritability, and flu-like symptoms, among others. Such discomfort occurs because the body has adapted to the presence of the medication, and suddenly stopping it can lead to an imbalance of neurotransmitters that has been maintained by the drug.

The key point here is that discontinuation syndrome can indeed occur if the medication is stopped suddenly, underscoring the importance of tapering SSRIs under medical supervision rather than discontinuing them abruptly. This is a critical teaching point for clients who are on SSRIs to ensure they are aware of the proper way to discontinue treatment if necessary, minimizing the risk of experiencing withdrawal-like symptoms.