Safe way to quit taking Serzone

Posted by Ruth on August 05, 1999 at 21:23:59
About 6 weeks ago my Dr presribed Serzone for me.  I have been taking 150-mg morning and night.  I have been having terrible headaches, weight gain, insommnia is beginning,and constant fatigue.  Things are now better in my life and I would rather be off the medication than suffer with these other problems.  I don't like the side effects, I would rather work harder on my personal life and exercising than to be feeling so weird.  My husband and I also want to have another child.  After discussing this with my MD Dr today he was furious that I wanted to stop and said that I would be looking at a 5-9 month withdrawl (withdrawal) period, plus an additional 3 month waiting period.  I am 32 and I want to not feel this effect and I want to get on with my family.  Is this a realistic withdrawl (withdrawal) period or is it possible to just quit or quit sooner?   I am not on any other medication or have any other health problems...your help/advice/comments would be much appreciate.
Thank you, Ruth

Posted by HFHS M.D.-SW on August 10, 1999 at 09:04:43
Dear Ruth,
       There are general guidelines for starting and stopping antidepressants. A patient is started on low doses then gradually (over 2 weeks) increased to standard recommended dosage. If a patient who has not been depressed before is started on antidepressant medications, they should continue for a period of 6 months symptom free then consider coming off the medication. The tapering of the medication takes about 3 weeks, to avoid withdrawl (withdrawal), then follow up in 5 weeks to monitor relapse of symptoms.  These are only guidelines. Each case is different. You may consider a 2nd opinion if you are not comfortable with your psychiatrist.
This reply is provided as general information only. Always consult your physician.
Sincerely,
      HFHS M.D.-SW
*Keywords:  Antidepressants