Time to Stop Treatment? How to Safely and Gradually Stop Escitalopram

Time to Stop Treatment? How to Safely and Gradually Stop Escitalopram

Table of Contents

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I. Why People Stop Taking Escitalopram

II. Risks of Stopping Abruptly

III. The Importance of Tapering

IV. Monitoring Your Mental Health

V. Alternative Supports During Tapering

VI. What to Do If Symptoms Return

VII. Getting More Support

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If you’ve been taking escitalopram and are thinking about stopping, it’s important to do so with care. 

Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescribed for depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Like all SSRIs, it affects the balance of serotonin in your brain, which is a key chemical involved in mood regulation. 

Discontinuing escitalopram suddenly or without medical supervision can lead to unpleasant and sometimes serious withdrawal symptoms. 

This article will walk you through when it might be time to stop treatment, how to taper off safely, what symptoms to watch for during the process, and how to get support along the way.

Why People Stop Taking Escitalopram

There are a variety of reasons you might consider ending treatment. Some people experience significant improvement in their mental health and feel ready to manage without medication. 

Others may face side effects, changes in life circumstances, or wish to try a different medication. Whatever the reason, the key is to prioritize your safety and emotional well-being as you transition.

Risks of Stopping Abruptly

Stopping escitalopram suddenly can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, flu-like symptoms, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and electric-shock sensations called "brain zaps.” ¹

These effects can be distressing and may interfere with daily functioning. In some cases, the return of depressive or anxious symptoms may also occur.

To minimize these risks, it's essential to taper the medication gradually under the guidance of your healthcare provider. The tapering schedule will depend on factors like your current dose, how long you've been on the medication, and how you've tolerated it so far.

The Importance of Tapering

Tapering refers to slowly reducing your dosage over time rather than stopping all at once. This approach helps your brain gradually adjust to the lower levels of serotonin, reducing the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms.

A common tapering strategy might involve reducing your dose by 5-10 mg every 1-2 weeks, depending on your individual response. For instance, if you're on 20 mg daily, your doctor may suggest stepping down to 15 mg, then 10 mg, then 5 mg before discontinuing completely. Each step may take one to two weeks or longer.

It's crucial to listen to your body during this time. If withdrawal symptoms become overwhelming, your doctor may recommend pausing at a certain dose or even increasing it slightly before trying again.

Monitoring Your Mental Health

As you taper, pay close attention to your mental health. Keep a journal of your mood, energy levels, sleep quality, and any physical symptoms. Share this information with your doctor so they can adjust your tapering plan as needed.

Sometimes, symptoms of depression or anxiety can reappear during the tapering process. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve failed or need to stay on the medication forever. It may indicate that your body needs more time to adjust or that a different support strategy should be in place.

Alternative Supports During Tapering

Stopping escitalopram doesn’t mean going it alone. There are many non-medication strategies that can support your mental health during and after tapering, including:

• Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling can provide valuable tools for coping with anxiety and depression.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity is known to boost mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep.
• Mindfulness and meditation: These practices can help you stay centered and reduce the risk of relapse.
  Support networks: Friends, family, or support groups can offer encouragement and perspective.

What to Do If Symptoms Return

If you experience a return of symptoms during or after tapering off escitalopram, reach out to your healthcare provider promptly. There is no shame in resuming medication if that is what you need to feel well, and ScriptsMD has made ordering escitalopram online a stress-free process. Some individuals may require longer-term treatment, while others may do well after a slow and mindful taper.

Remember, stopping escitalopram safely is not a race. It’s a personal process that requires time, patience, and medical guidance.

Getting More Support

Deciding to stop escitalopram is a significant step that should be made with the support of a medical professional. With the right plan, careful monitoring, and access to additional resources, many people can transition off the medication safely and successfully.

If you’re considering stopping treatment, talk to your doctor about the safest approach for your situation. For more information about escitalopram, side effects, and alternative treatments, visit our escitalopram blog.