Discontinuation symptoms are experienced due to receptor adaptation or receptor rebound after stopping of antidepressants. It can be avoided or reduced by slowly tapering the drug over at least 4 weeks.
Symptoms include flu-like symptoms, ‘shock-like” sensations, dizziness exacerbated by movement, insomnia, vivid dreaming and irritability, problems with concentration, and memory or movement disorders.
It is managed by reintroduction of the SSRI and slower tapering of the dose.
Note: Fluoxetine seldom causes discontinuation symptoms because of its long half-life.