Withdrawal from Antipsychotic Medication

There are many reasons why you might want to stop taking antipsychotics. You might be struggling with side effects, or you may want to try other ways of managing your mental health.

How Easy Is It to Stop?

Some people can come off antipsychotics quite smoothly. Others find it harder, especially if they’ve been on them for a long time. Keep in mind:

• It’s safer to taper slowly than to stop suddenly.
• Stopping too quickly can make symptoms return.
• Talk to your doctor and tell trusted friends or family so you have support.

Why Medical Supervision Matters

Coming off antipsychotics should always be done with guidance. Your doctor can:

• Help you make a safe, personalised withdrawal plan.
• Watch for severe withdrawal symptoms or changes in your mental health.
• See you regularly to check how you’re doing and adjust the plan if needed.

When Is the Right Time?

There isn’t one “right time” for everyone. Think about things like:

• How much stress you’re under right now.
• Whether your schedule is calm or hectic, a quieter time can make it easier.
• If you have support from friends, family, and professionals.

What Withdrawal Symptoms Can Happen?

Coming off antipsychotics can bring a mix of symptoms. You may get some, none, or just for a short while:

• Muscle aches
• Anxiety and mood swings
• Insomnia
• Abnormal skin sensations
• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Feeling too hot or too cold
• Social withdrawal
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Restlessness and irritability
• Runny nose
• Sweating
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Tardive psychosis

Could Symptoms Return?

There’s a risk that psychotic symptoms might come back after stopping antipsychotics, but it does not happen to everyone. Things that affect relapse include:

• Other treatments, like therapy, which can help you cope in different ways.
• Positive lifestyle changes since your last episode, which might reduce risk.
• Stopping suddenly instead of tapering, which raises the risk the most.