What Does SSRI Discontinuation Syndrome Feel Like?

SSRI discontinuation syndrome causes flu-like symptoms, dizziness, and electric shock sensations. Physical symptoms include nausea, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue that can last 1-3 weeks. Many people describe "brain zaps" - brief electrical sensations in the head when moving eyes or turning the head. Emotional symptoms include irritability, anxiety, mood swings, and crying spells. Sleep disturbances like vivid dreams or insomnia are common. Symptoms typically begin 1-3 days after stopping or reducing the medication and affect up to 56% of people discontinuing SSRIs. The intensity varies based on the specific medication, dosage, and how quickly it was stopped.

Related Questions

• How long does SSRI discontinuation syndrome last?

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• Can tapering SSRIs slowly prevent discontinuation syndrome?

• What's the difference between SSRI withdrawal and depression relapse?

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