Discontinuation syndrome

Overview

Discontinuation syndrome is a syndrome, known by clinicians for severaldecades. The discontinuation syndrome has been observed after abrupt dis-continuation of treatment with inhibitors of monoaminoxidase, tricyclic anti-depressants and serotonin re-uptake inhibitors. The serotonin re-uptakeinhibitor discontinuation syndrome is characterised by signs and symptomsnot present previously. Cluster of five somatic symptoms have been descri-bed: disequilibrium, gastrointestinal symptoms, flu-like symptoms, sensorydisturbances, sleep disturbances. The pharmacologic profile of SSRI playsthe key role in the probability of occurrence of discontinuation syndrome.The long half-life of SSRI may prevent the appearance of discontinuationsyndrome.

Key words:
discontinuation syndrome, antidepressants, half-life.