How do you taper down on antidepressants?

Question

I think that I am ready to get off my antidepressants but my doctor has been hard to reach since the COVID-19 started. He explained to me before that when I want to get off of it, we will have to taper down the dose. I have one more three month supply.
I’m currently taking sertraline 50 MG daily

Answer

Please talk to your doctor before you do anything.

Answer

I am a nurse that works with a family practice doc. We generally have patients half their dose for 1-2 weeks then half it again for another 1-2 weeks and then down to every other day for 1 week. The slower you taper the better. Remember quitting anti depressants cold turkey can cause rebound depression, anxiety and even suicidal ideation. Please talk with your doctor before starting the taper so they can help you through the process.

Answer

They either lower the dose for your next refill or you cut the pills in half, and then quarter, depending on the type it is

Answer

You have to cut up your pills and go half a dose for a couple of weeks, then a quarter of a dose for a couple of weeks, then a quarter of a dose every second day before stopping. If you can get a new prescription for pills with less mg/pill it’s easier. You definitely want to take your time coming off them over at least a month or six weeks. 
When I tried to taper off mine I did it too quickly and I felt HORRIBLE. Like all over body aches, headache, shaking, sitting on the floor crying 😭. It passed after a couple of days but your body goes into a major withdrawal.

How do you taper down on antidepressants?

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