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Real members of MyDepressionTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My psychiatrist changed my SSRI to a SSNI very abruptly. I was on my SSRI for several years I am getting painful withdrawal symptoms normal

A MyDepressionTeam Member asked a question 💭
Palmer, AK
August 18
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MyDepressionTeam

Is it normal to experience painful withdrawal symptoms after abruptly switching from an SSRI to an SNRI after several years? Unfortunately, yes — this is a real and recognized issue.

When someone has been on an SSRI for a long time, the brain adjusts to that medication. Stopping it suddenly can cause what's known as Show Full Answer

Is it normal to experience painful withdrawal symptoms after abruptly switching from an SSRI to an SNRI after several years? Unfortunately, yes — this is a real and recognized issue.

When someone has been on an SSRI for a long time, the brain adjusts to that medication. Stopping it suddenly can cause what's known as discontinuation syndrome, which can feel very uncomfortable.

Symptoms can include:

- Dizziness or "brain zaps" (a strange electric shock sensation)
- Nausea
- Flu-like feelings
- Irritability or anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue It's really important to contact your psychiatrist about what you're experiencing. Typically, switching between these medications is done gradually to minimize withdrawal effects — tapering down the old medication slowly before introducing the new one.

A MyDepressionTeam member shared a similar experience, noting they checked with their doctor about medication changes that were causing unwanted side effects.

Don't just push through the pain without speaking up — your doctor needs to know so they can help manage this transition more comfortably for you.

August 18
A MyDepressionTeam Member

That's typically protocol involving tolerance perhaps

August 19
A MyDepressionTeam Member

Good morning! Thank you very much for your kind words. I reallly appreciate it. I have an appointment next with a new doctor hopefully I can get back to feeling normal. I don’t want to spend the rest of my life like this. It has to get better, right!
We’ll have a great day. I just walked the dogs before it gets to hot. Now I have to figure out what to do with myself today.

August 19
A MyDepressionTeam Member

Wow, I am surprised that you weren't weaned off the SSRI instead of stopping it abruptly. I'm sorry about the side effects of withdrawal that you are experiencing. That sucks and could be avoided!!!! I would definitely have a word or two with my psychiatrist. Hang in there. It will subside eventually.....Take care.

August 19

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