Re:

To the editor:

The murky perils of quitting antidepressants after years of use (NYT, 4.8.18) reports on the prevalence of withdrawal or discontinuation symptoms when antidepressants are stopped.  These medications can be lifesaving for people with severe depression; a condition which tends to be chronic and recurrent. When a decision is made to taper an antidepressant vigilance is required to monitor for relapse as well as withdrawal.

Not only should a patient be aware of the risks of taking any drug at the outset; she should also be aware of alternative treatments.  Psychotherapy for mild to moderate depression is an effective and evidence based approach that alters brain chemistry without side effects or withdrawal symptoms.  And, when effective, its benefits can be long lasting.  Individuals seeking treatment for depression should discuss drug treatment, psychotherapy and combined approaches with their physician before embarking on any course of treatment.

Respectfully

Larry S Sandberg