Stopping treatment with SNRIs

SNRIs are not considered addictive. However, stopping antidepressant treatment abruptly or missing several doses may cause withdrawal-like symptoms. This is sometimes called discontinuation syndrome. Withdrawal-like symptoms may be more likely to occur with venlafaxine or desvenlafaxine, though they can occur when any SNRI is stopped abruptly. Work with your doctor to gradually and safely decrease your dose.

Withdrawal-like symptoms can include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Flu-like symptoms, such as tiredness, chills and muscle aches
• Irritability or agitation
• Nausea
• Insomnia or sleep disturbances, such as nightmares
• Diarrhea