Stopping treatment with MAOIs

Talk with your healthcare professional before you stop taking an MAOI.

Typically, MAOIs are not habit-forming. But if you stop an MAOI suddenly, you're more likely to have discontinuation symptoms. This is sometimes called discontinuation syndrome. These symptoms can include:

• Restlessness, irritability or anxiety.
• Upset stomach.
• Feelings of tingling or burning.
• Flu-like symptoms, such as chills, sweating, feeling generally unwell and muscle aches.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Sluggishness, tiredness or sleepiness.
• Headache.
• Confusion.
• Dizziness.

You'll likely need to wait two or more weeks after the use of MAOIs before starting other antidepressants. This will help you avoid serotonin syndrome, where you have dangerously high levels of serotonin. During those two weeks, continue food and beverage restrictions and don't take medicine that can cause serious interactions with MAOIs.

Work with your healthcare professional to slowly and safely lower your dose over time.