Withdrawal is common and can be caused by all classes of antidepressants. Symptoms of withdrawal are diverse, including psychological and physical manifestations. Patients may experience severe symptoms including suicidal ideation. GPs should ask about physical symptoms and consider the symptom timeline to distinguish between withdrawal and relapse. Antidepressants should be tapered through a proportionate reduction regime. This should take place at least over months. GPs should educate patients on withdrawal and the importance of not stopping their antidepressant abruptly. For those who experience withdrawal, GPs should reduce tapering rate, and increase duration while advising on coping strategies.
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