What To Expect When Tapering Off Medications

Tapering off medications is when you choose to reduce your medication dosage slowly over time. This is generally done under the supervision of a licensed provider and should NOT be done against medical advice as reducing or abruptly discontinuing some medications may not be safe. This can be beneficial if a medication is no longer working for you, you are experiencing side effects or there may be a more beneficial option for you. If you are beginning to taper off a medication you take, it’s likely that you have some questions.

Why Taper Off Medications?

As mentioned before, it may be dangerous to go “cold turkey” with certain types of medications. Abruptly stopping some may lead to withdrawal symptoms or other dangerous side effects.

Certain psychiatric medications such as antidepressants, benzodiazepines and antipsychotic medications require tapering to safely stop and/or switch to another medication. It is important that you feel you can discuss your symptoms and potential side effects with your provider so that you can find the medication management plan that is right for you. You are a part of your care and together you and your psychiatric provider can find what works best for your unique symptoms.

What Can You Expect When Tapering?

There can be a variety of things that may happen as you taper off medications. Some may experience withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing medication. These symptoms can vary based on how your provider tapers you off, your dosage, how long you’ve been using the medication etc. These withdrawal symptoms may include physical ones such as nausea, dizziness, headaches and/or flu like symptoms. Some may experience an increase in anxiety, irritability or brain fog. Sleep may also be impacted. Due to these possible withdrawal symptoms it is imperative you taper under medical supervision so that your provider can decrease the likelihood of these symptoms.

If you taper without beginning another medication to manage your symptoms you may experience a return or relapse of symptoms. Together you can address this with your prescriber to see if you are ready to stop medications entirely or if another medication may be a better option.

You may also experience intense emotions or increased feelings of stress when tapering. This can be due to no longer having this particular medication on board to help manage intrusive symptoms.

Deciding Whether Tapering Is Right For You

In most cases, abruptly stopping medications can have negative effects. It is important that you have a provider you feel you can talk to. Together you can create a plan that works for you. When you feel comfortable with your prescriber and involved in your care you are less likely to taper on your own. If a medication isn’t working for you you have the right to explore this and find a plan that is most effective for you.

Carolina Counseling Services in Fuquay-Varina, NC contracts with licensed psychiatric professionals who care. Together you can develop a medication management plan that is right for you. You can explore whether tapering off a medication is safe, necessary and wise for your recovery. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment.