If you've ever taken ADs, how did you know it was time to come off them?

[Cuando]

After resisting ADs, I finally started on Citalopram about two years ago. Weird at first then they kicked in and it's helped enormously. At one point, I thought I'd stay on them for ever. Now, I'm starting to think I'd like to come off them. The main reason is they affect my bowels (TMI) and I frequently have diarrhoea. On the other hand, they really do help me. I have an appointment with my GP next week but I know he will leave the decision on my hands. Any thoughts?

Dont know about this specifically,but if the GP agrees,perhaps cut down the dosage at first and see how things are?

Hello! I've taken citalopram and then prozac for post natal depression.

Do you feel a lot better in terms of your depression? I think the usual advice is to stay on them for six months after you feel completely better but hard to do if you're getting side effects.

I came off mine although I wasn't completely well, but the side effects of tiredness and nil energy were dragging me down more than I was benefitting from the anti depressant effect if you see what I mean, so it was time to come off for me.

The GP wasn't sure but let me do it very slowly and kept a close eye on me. It was the right time and I felt better for being able to be more on top of the house etc.

My advice would be to see your GP to first see what they think and get their help on how to cut down.

You can always restart if you find you need to.

Hope that helps a bit x

If you are asking - you are probably ready. Go and see GP who can advise about cutting the dosage.

Both times I took citalopram I ended up stopping due to unforseen circumstances. One time I was on holiday and forgot my tablets...I just didn't go back on them afterwards (after explaining to GP when I got home). I ended up back on them a couple of years later but got a sickness bug and couldn't take them.

2 periods of taking them of about 6 months. No symptoms of coming off them cold turkey but I would definitely suggest you see your GP and do it properly.