Understanding SSRI Changes: A Guide for Managing Depression & Anxiety

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, known widely as SSRIs, treat the symptoms of depression in people with Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Spectrum Disorder and other mental disorders such as OCD and anxiety. While SSRIs can be effective, sometimes the side effects of a particular medication is too much to bear despite alleviating the depressive symptoms. This usually prompts a change in SSRI antidepressants. Learning how to change SSRIs without incurring more or extreme side effects requires the care of a doctor, and the patience to change doses and then medications over one to several months.

Instructions

• 1

  Consult with your doctor before stopping or changing SSRIs. Withdrawal, called "SSRI discontinuation syndrome," can be sudden and harsh. Your doctor will work with you to prevent such problems.

• 2

  Fill the prescription for the new SSRI to replace the one you were taking.

• 3

  Taper off the old medication as directed by your doctor. Do not attempt to speed up the tapering process if you are feeling well as it can create sudden and severe side effects.

• 4

  Start the new SSRI medication as directed by your doctor.