You might not want to take it forever if you are struggling with depression or anxiety.It is important to do it slowly so that you do not experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the drug.The best way to stop your medication is to take it easy with the help of your doctor.You should watch for signs of withdrawal during this time.Good care of yourself will help relieve any symptoms you experience.
Step 1: Ask your doctor if you can stop taking the drug.
Your doctor will want to make sure that you are no longer dealing with the condition that the citalopram is treating.It is best to wait until you feel better for at least 6 months and the situation that caused your depression has been fixed.If you are dealing with a divorce, don't try to quit your medication.Let's say the drug is treating depression.If you haven't had any symptoms of depression for at least 6 months, it's best to keep taking your medication.This reduces your risk.Separation, divorce, job loss, moving, illness, and grief are some of the major life stressors that can make it harder to stop your medication.
Step 2: Dosage should be lowered slowly over time.
Your body has time to adjust to not having the medication in it's system.Because your body won't experience a shock to your system, this limits the risk of you experiencing withdrawal symptoms.Do not stop your medication without your doctor's approval.Everyone's response to stopping a medication is different.Work closely with your doctor to develop a schedule that works for you.When you are done with your medication, be patient.Getting off of a drug too quickly can make you sick, set back your treatment progress, or put you at risk of developing suicidal thoughts.
Step 3: Work with your doctor to make a schedule.
Depending on how long you have been taking the drug and how high your dose was, you should be able to stop taking it in about six to eight weeks.The amount of the drug will be reduced by your doctor.If your doctor thinks you are ready to stop taking medication, you will usually drop your dose every 2 weeks.Your doctor may recommend alternating between your current dose and a lower dose.For example, if you have been taking 40 grams of the drug per day, they might have you take 20 grams every day for 2 weeks, which is equivalent to taking 30 grams daily.If your doctor wants to make it easier to take, they may prescribe you a liquid form of the drug.If you only took the drug for a short period of time, such as less than 2 months, you may only need a few weeks of tapering.
Step 4: Talk to your doctor before changing your schedule.
Even if you are feeling good, follow your doctor's instructions.It is hard to predict how your body will react to decreasing your dose too quickly because withdrawal symptoms can take days to develop.Talk to your doctor if you have any questions.Don't switch to someone else's plan just because it worked for them because your schedule is designed to meet your needs.
Step 5: There are symptoms of withdrawal.
You might not have any withdrawal symptoms if you take citalopram.If you have been taking the medication for a long time, you are more likely to experience withdrawal.If you experience withdrawal symptoms, they will start a few days after you stop taking citalopram or reduce your dose.Agitation anxiety, dizziness, headaches, sweating, nausea, and insomnia are some of the typical withdrawal symptoms for citalopram.
Step 6: As you get closer to the end of the day, record how you feel.
If you have any symptoms of withdrawal, write them down as well as your mood.You will be able to tell if you are experiencing withdrawal or just having a bad day.In this case, your headaches might not be related to the citalopram.If you have a lot of headaches in a row, you might want to talk to your doctor about withdrawal.
Step 7: If the symptoms of your original condition are returning, you need to be aware of it.
It is possible that you will go back to your depression, anxiety, or whatever condition your doctor is treating after you stop taking citalopram.You can easily mistake your symptoms for withdrawal if they start to return.If this is the case, your doctor can help you figure it out.Physical symptoms that aren't typically part of depression or anxiety are included in withdrawal.You might experience body pains, such as achy hands and feet.It's more likely that you are experiencing withdrawal if you have physical symptoms.
Step 8: It is possible to boost your mood by being active for 30 minutes a day.
Moderate exercise causes your body to release natural chemicals that make you feel better.It is not difficult to stick to your exercise goals if you choose a fun activity that you can easily incorporate into your day.Walk during your lunch hour or after dinner.Spend more time outdoors.Become a part of a recreational sports team.You can take a dance class.You can try a fitness streaming service.There is a fitness class at the gym.There are laps in the pool.
Step 9: You should eat well.
Getting enough to eat and choosing a variety of high-quality, nutritious foods can help you feel better both physically and emotionally.When you are hungry, pay attention to your body.You will probably benefit from eating a diet rich in whole grains, fiber, lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and healthy sources of fat.Sugary, greasy, and processed foods are not good for you.
Step 10: The sun gives you 20 minutes of sunlight a day.
Spending time in the sun can improve your mood.Try to walk in the sun for 20 minutes a day.If you are going to spend more than 20 minutes in the sun, protect your skin with sunscreen and appropriate clothing.Talk to your doctor if you think you might have a deficiency.They might recommend taking a supplement if that's the case.If you live in an area that doesn't get a lot of natural sunlight, ask your doctor if you can try light therapy.
Step 11: You can manage your stress.
It's difficult to withdraw from medicine when you're dealing with stress.Stress can cause a relapse.There are easy ways to take care of yourself and reduce stress in your life.You can incorporate the following into your day: sleep well every night by following a sleep routine.Take time for yourself, engage in a hobby, or express yourself creatively.You should spend time with people you care about.It's a good idea to eat a lot of fresh produce and lean meat.Take a break in nature.
Step 12: Out of friends and family, build a support network.
If you are stopping your medication, you should reach out to your family and friends.If you start to suffer from depression or anxiety, they can help you deal with it.Let people know you need help.I just stopped taking a drug, so I might need more help around the house for a few days.Is it okay to call you when I need help?
Step 13: If necessary, speak to a counselor.
If you work with a counselor, you can come off your medication safely.They will help you process your emotions and learn better ways to deal with symptoms.Continue going to appointments as you transition off of the drug.Ask your doctor for a recommendation if you don't go to therapy.
Step 14: fluoxetine is a good short-term option if you ask your doctor.
fluoxetine stays in your system for a while because it leaves your body slowly.It is easier to quit when you are ready.It is possible for your doctor to recommend a long-acting antidepressant like fluoxetine as it reduces the risk of withdrawal.It isn't right to switch to a long-acting antidepressants for everyone.If you have been taking the drug for a long time, they are more likely to prescribe it.
Step 15: If necessary, talk to your doctor about your withdrawal symptoms.
Your doctor can prescribe a medication to address your withdrawal symptoms if they interfere with your life.They may be able to give you a sleep aid or anti-nausea medication.Most people don't need these medications, so your doctor might decide they're not right for you.