A recent study has found that nearly half of long-term antidepressant users can successfully discontinue their medication with the support of their general practitioners (GPs) and access to internet or telephone helplines.
Researchers discovered that over 40% of individuals who were stable and not at risk of relapse were able to stop taking antidepressants with guidance from their doctors.
Those who had access to online support and psychologists over the phone experienced lower rates of depression, fewer withdrawal symptoms, and improved mental well-being.
Currently, over 10% of adults in the UK are using antidepressants to treat depression, with more than half using them for longer than two years, statistics from the National Health Service (NHS) show.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, was conducted by researchers from the universities of Southampton, Liverpool, and Hull York Medical School.
Lead author Professor Tony Kendrick from the University of Southampton, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), emphasized the significance of the findings, indicating that many patients who stop using antidepressants do not necessarily require costly intensive therapy sessions.
He stated, “This approach could help avoid serious side effects in patients using antidepressants for extended periods and concerned about withdrawal.”
Providing patients with internet and psychologist telephone support was not only beneficial for patient outcomes but also cost-effective for the NHS, Professor Kendrick added.
A total of 330 adults who had been using antidepressants for more than a year for their first episode of depression or over two years for recurrent depression were enrolled in the study.
Co-author Professor Una Macleod, a Primary Care Medicine expert at Hull York Medical School, pointed out that many patients may continue taking antidepressants beyond the necessary duration.
She said, “Our study’s evidence is clear and suggests the UK should establish a national helpline, available by phone and online, to assist individuals looking to discontinue antidepressants.”
This recent study is part of a seven-year research initiative called REDUCE, spearheaded by the universities to study the long-term effects of antidepressant withdrawal.
General Practice Professor Mark Gabbay from the University of Liverpool, a co-author, highlighted that many patients may not require intensive in-person therapy sessions during the discontinuation process.
He stated, “This study is the first to demonstrate the possibility of stopping prolonged antidepressant use at scale without psychological therapy.”
Professor Gabbay added, “Antidepressants are typically recommended for up to two years, and individuals face increased side effects as they age.”
Based on their findings, the researchers are advocating for enhanced family practitioner reviews to promote the safe discontinuation of antidepressants.
