In a recent breakthrough, researchers have discovered the most effective strategy for quitting antidepressants with reduced risk of relapse.
A new and rigorous review published in The Lancet Psychiatryprovides crucial guidance for safely stopping antidepressants. The study reviewed 76 randomized trials and aimed to prevent relapse within the first year after stopping the medication.
The method known as tapering, combined with psychological support, has proven to be more successful in preventing symptoms from returning.
In addition, the strategy of slow taper plus psychological support may also be helpful in lowering the risk of depression relapse in one in five patients, similar to those who stop taking medications abruptly.
Decisive success factors
The analysis also highlighted two crucial factors responsible for successfully preventing relapse.
The first factor revolves around gradual tapering, whereby the medication is reduced over a period of longer than four weeks. The second factor involves receiving support such as mindfulness-based therapies and cognitive behavioral therapy during the tapering process.
“Safe alternative treatments such as psychological support, including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapies, may be a promising tool – even in the short term,” said co-author Debora Zaccoletti of the University of Verona in a statement.
According to the team’s findings, slow tapering combined with psychological therapy was effective in reducing the risk of relapse by 48 percent.
Despite the effectiveness of such an approach, experts do not underestimate the importance of antidepressants to tackle acute depression.
The study also has some implications and limitations due to insufficient evidence on the efficacy of psychotherapy.
Furthermore, researchers also suggest that tapering off antidepressants is possible for the majority of patients, but should be discussed with a specialist first.
According to Giovanni Ostuzzi, the lead author of the review: “For probably the majority of patients, stopping antidepressants is feasible, but this should be discussed with a specialist and the best possible strategies should be tailored to the individual characteristics of each person.”
“Our new review clarifies the scientific evidence on the most effective way to get off antidepressants for individuals who have been successfully treated for depression and could change the way antidepressants are managed worldwide,” he added.
Nearly 9 million patients took antidepressants in England last year, according to data from the NHS Business Services Authority.
Zaccoletti said: “These findings highlight the need to update clinical guidelines to promote regular treatment reviews and individualized drug tapering, with gradual tapering and structured psychological support.”
