Are antidepressants addictive?
No. Antidepressant medications are not addictive.
If you are to stop taking antidepressants, you will not experience the same cravings that an individual addicted to alcohol or recreational drugs may experience, if they were to stop drinking or using drugs. There is no ‘high’ experienced from antidepressants and no ‘street value’ in the UK.
You may however feel anxious about stopping or reducing medication; and may be worried that symptoms could return – particularly if you have taken antidepressants for a prolonged period.
It is normal to feel this way and for this reason it is important to involve your prescribing doctor in any decisions on reducing or stopping; so that you can be supported throughout this time.
If you are to stop taking antidepressants too quickly you may however, experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include:
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Stomach issues
- Headaches
- Restlessness
- Sweating
- Lower mood or increased anxiety.
Summary
Antidepressants are not addictive. However, you can experience withdrawal symptoms if you are to stop taking them. If you wish to stop taking your antidepressant or reduce the dose, it is important to discuss this with your doctor.
Together you may be able to plan a slow reduction of dose, minimising withdrawal symptoms, whilst also supporting you and monitoring your mental health.
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