Patients Taking Antidepressants Should Not Stop Cold Turkey

University of the Sciences in Philadelphia health tip

PHILADELPHIA, Aug 2, 2004 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Nearly 12 million Americans are affected by depression each year. The effects of depression can be managed through prescribed medications from a physician, but some individuals refuse antidepressants. There are others who do follow their doctor's advice initially, but then stop taking their prescriptions before the treatment is finished. This decision can have consequences, including the development of a discontinuation syndrome.

"A discontinuation syndrome is a cluster of symptoms that appear after an antidepressant has been abruptly discontinued," says Laura A. Mandos, PharmD, associate professor of clinical pharmacy at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. "Discontinuation syndromes have been reported with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, Venlafaxine (Effexer(R)), and some of the tricyclic antidepressants. Common symptoms include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, vivid dreams, vertigo, mood swings, malaise, and headaches."

But why do patients decide to quit cold turkey? Sexual factors may be an influence as a loss of libido and ejaculatory disturbances can result. Some individuals are afraid of becoming addicted to the drugs or the potential dangers they may pose. Suicide is also a concern. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a public health advisory asking makers of 10 drugs to add or strengthen suicide-related warnings on their labels. According to a recent story by the Associated Press, a study of nearly British 2,800 adults and children supported evidence that patients are prone to suicidal impulses when they are first put on antidepressants.

Discontinuation syndrome should not be confused with drug dependency or addiction because there "is no psychological craving for the medication," according to Dr. Mandos. The symptoms of discontinuation syndrome may last any where from three days to three weeks. These ill effects can be avoided if patients listen to their doctor and take their prescriptions as directed.

"In general, it is prudent to always taper off an antidepressant to lessen the risk of experiencing a discontinuation syndrome," says Dr. Mandos. "It is very important for patients not to stop taking their antidepressant medications abruptly."

To arrange an interview with Dr. Mandos, call John M. Martino at 215-895- 1186 or email: j.martin@usip.edu

SOURCE University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

CONTACT: John M. Martino, +1-215-895-1186; or Carolyn Vivaldi,

+1-215-596-8855, both for University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

URL: http://www.usip.edu  http://www.prnewswire.com

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