Half of Long-Term Antidepressant Users Can Taper Off with Simple Support

A recent study has revealed that nearly half of long-term antidepressant users can successfully quit their medication with support from general practitioners (GPs) and access to internet or telephone helplines. Conducted by scientists from the universities of Southampton, Liverpool, and Hull York Medical School, the research indicates that over 40% of individuals who were well and not at risk of relapse managed to stop taking antidepressants with advice from their doctors. Those who had access to online support and psychologists by phone experienced lower rates of depression, fewer withdrawal symptoms, and better mental well-being.

According to NHS figures, more than 10% of adults in the UK are currently taking antidepressants for depression, with over half of them using the medication for longer than two years. This study, published in JAMA Network Open and led by Professor Tony Kendrick from Southampton, highlights the significant potential for patients to discontinue long-term antidepressant use without the need for costly intensive therapy sessions.

Professor Kendrick emphasized the importance of the findings, noting that high numbers of patients can withdraw from antidepressants without the risk of serious side effects. He stated, “This approach could eliminate the risk of serious side effects for patients using antidepressants for long periods who have concerns about withdrawal. Offering patients internet and psychologist telephone support is also cost-effective for the NHS.”

The study enrolled 330 adults who had been taking antidepressants for more than a year for a first episode of depression or more than two years for recurrent depression. Co-author Una Macleod, Professor of Primary Care Medicine at Hull York Medical School, pointed out the significant number of patients taking antidepressants for over two years when they might no longer need them. She suggested that the UK should establish a national helpline to assist people intending to come off the medication.

This study is part of a seven-year research program named REDUCE, aimed at investigating the long-term effects of withdrawing from antidepressants. Professor Mark Gabbay from the University of Liverpool, a co-author of the study, stated that the research demonstrates the feasibility of stopping inappropriate long-term antidepressant treatment on a large scale without psychological therapy. He added, “Antidepressants are recommended only for up to two years in most cases, and people are running the risk of increasing side effects as they get older. From our findings, we are calling for active family practitioner reviews for antidepressant discontinuation to be promoted.”

The findings of this study suggest that with appropriate support, many patients can successfully discontinue long-term antidepressant use, which could lead to better patient outcomes and reduce the burden on primary healthcare services.

Story Source: Materials provided by the University of Southampton [Link]. Content edited for style and length.