The Science Behind Stopping Nexito
Nexito is a brand name for the medication escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs work by increasing the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. Over time, your brain and nervous system adapt to the consistent presence of this medication. When you stop taking Nexito abruptly, the sudden drop in serotonin levels can cause your nervous system to go into shock, triggering a range of physical and emotional side effects collectively known as Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome (ADS).
Common Symptoms of Nexito Discontinuation Syndrome
Discontinuation symptoms typically emerge within a day or two of stopping or reducing the dose too quickly and can range from mild to severe. Not everyone will experience withdrawal, but for those who do, symptoms can fall into several categories:
Physical Symptoms
- Flu-like symptoms: Fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and chills are commonly reported.
- Dizziness and balance issues: Many people feel lightheaded, unsteady, or have vertigo.
- Brain zaps: This is a distinct and often disturbing sensation described as brief, electric shock-like feelings in the head or brain.
- Gastrointestinal distress: Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea are common during discontinuation.
- Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, vivid dreams, and nightmares can occur as sleep patterns are disrupted.
- Sensory and motor issues: Some people experience tingling sensations, tremors, or restless legs.
- Sweating: Excessive or increased sweating is another possible side effect.
Psychological and Emotional Symptoms
- Anxiety and mood swings: An increase in anxiety, agitation, and irritability is common as the brain adjusts.
- Return of depression: A return of the original depression or anxiety symptoms can occur, though it is often difficult to distinguish from withdrawal.
- Confusion and cognitive difficulties: Some individuals experience a feeling of “brain fog” or difficulty concentrating.
- Increased sensitivity: Heightened sensitivity to light and sound may be experienced.
- Suicidal ideation: In rare but serious cases, thoughts of suicide or self-harm can emerge. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please seek immediate help.
Why You Should Not Stop Nexito 'Cold Turkey'
Stopping any antidepressant, including Nexito, abruptly is strongly discouraged by healthcare professionals. The risks of doing so far outweigh any perceived benefit of quick cessation. The primary dangers of quitting cold turkey include:
- Increased severity of symptoms: The withdrawal symptoms will likely be more intense, uncomfortable, and potentially debilitating.
- Protracted withdrawal syndrome: In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can persist for months or even longer, a phenomenon known as protracted withdrawal.
- Higher risk of relapse: A sudden stop can trigger a severe relapse of the original depressive or anxiety disorder, which can be harder to treat the next time around.
- Safety risks: Severe symptoms like dizziness could lead to falls, and severe mood changes or suicidal thoughts pose a significant risk to one's safety.
The Safe Way: Gradual Tapering
The safest and most recommended method for discontinuing Nexito is a gradual tapering process under the supervision of a healthcare provider. A tapering plan involves slowly and incrementally reducing the dose over several weeks or months. This allows the brain enough time to gradually adapt to the decreasing levels of serotonin, significantly minimizing the severity of potential side effects.
A typical tapering strategy involves:
- Consulting a professional: Never start a tapering plan without discussing it with your doctor first. They can create a personalized schedule based on your dosage, treatment duration, and health history.
- Slow reduction: The dose is usually lowered in small increments, with weeks or months between each reduction to monitor for symptoms.
- Monitoring symptoms: It is helpful to keep a mood calendar or journal to track how you feel after each dose reduction. Report any difficult symptoms to your doctor.
- Adjusting the schedule: If you experience uncomfortable symptoms, your doctor may advise you to hold the current dose for longer or increase it slightly before attempting another reduction.
Withdrawal vs. Relapse: Knowing the Difference
One of the most challenging aspects of stopping Nexito is distinguishing between discontinuation symptoms and a potential relapse of the original condition. Here's a comparison to help you tell them apart:
| Feature | Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome (Withdrawal) | Relapse of Depression/Anxiety |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Starts quickly, often within 1-3 days of stopping or reducing the dose. | Develops more gradually over weeks or months after discontinuation. |
| Symptoms | Characterized by unique physical symptoms like brain zaps, dizziness, and flu-like sensations, along with mood changes. | Primarily involves the re-emergence of original symptoms (persistent sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest), typically without unique physical sensations. |
| Duration | Usually resolves as the body readjusts, often within 1-2 weeks for acute symptoms, though some can linger. | Symptoms persist and may get worse if not addressed with treatment. |
| Response to Medication | Symptoms often disappear quickly if the medication is restarted. | New treatment or a return to the old one may take weeks to show effect. |
Conclusion
Stopping a medication like Nexito requires a thoughtful, medically supervised approach to ensure both physical and emotional safety. While it is not physically addictive, abrupt cessation can trigger a constellation of withdrawal symptoms known as Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome. The safest course of action is to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop and follow a gradual tapering schedule. By understanding what to expect and distinguishing between temporary withdrawal effects and the return of underlying symptoms, you can navigate this process with a greater sense of control and confidence. The ultimate goal is to transition off the medication while minimizing discomfort and maintaining long-term mental wellness.
Visit MedlinePlus for more information on stopping antidepressants
