Slow Tapering Combined With Therapy Can Help Patients Safely Stop Antidepressants: Study

New Delhi — A new study has found that gradually reducing antidepressant dosage while providing structured psychological support is an effective approach for adults who have recovered from depression and wish to discontinue their medication.

Typically, antidepressants are prescribed for six to nine months after a first episode of moderate-to-severe depression or anxiety to prevent relapse. However, concerns about long-term use, overprescription, and withdrawal symptoms have increased interest in evidence-based deprescribing methods.

To evaluate effective strategies, researchers at the University of Verona in Italy conducted a comprehensive systematic review and network meta-analysis involving 76 randomized controlled trials and 17,379 adults.

The study, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, emphasizes that the findings do not imply antidepressants are unnecessary, nor that psychotherapy alone is sufficient. Instead, the results highlight the need for personalised plans when discontinuing medication. The most effective method identified is gradual, individualized tapering supported by structured psychological therapy.

Lead author Professor Giovanni Ostuzzi explained, “By incorporating a substantially larger evidence base, a broader range of deprescribing strategies, and direct head-to-head comparisons, our new review clarifies the scientific evidence about the most effective way to come off antidepressants for individuals successfully treated for depression and could change how coming off antidepressants is managed globally.”

He further advised individuals considering stopping antidepressants to consult their doctor to determine the best approach.

The analysis estimated that slow tapering combined with psychotherapy could prevent one relapse for every five individuals when compared with abrupt cessation or fast tapering — the least effective strategies.

Continuing on a reduced dose of antidepressants also appeared more effective than rapid discontinuation, though this evidence was not as strong. Importantly, the study reported no significant differences in side effects or dropout rates across the deprescribing methods.

With inputs from IANS