Q I've taken antidepressants for a long time and want to reduce them. If I combine Korean medicine treatment, can I taper off later?
A It is possible, but it must be led by the prescribing physician. Reducing antidepressants abruptly can cause discontinuation syndrome (headache, dizziness, electric-shock sensations), so the safe approach is to stabilize your condition with Korean medicine first and then taper gradually under a psychiatrist.
Detailed Answer
SSRI/SNRI discontinuation syndrome: If you stop abruptly or reduce quickly, headache, dizziness, sensory disturbances (electric-shock sensations), anxiety and insomnia can last for days to weeks. You must taper gradually over several months according to your prescribing physician's instructions.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Once it is confirmed that residual symptoms such as sleep, fatigue and anxiety have improved with Korean medicine treatment, your psychiatrist has a basis to consider tapering. We recommend a collaborative approach in which the two institutions communicate and proceed safely. Never reduce your medication on your own.
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