ADVERSE EVENTS AFTER THE ABRUPT DISCONTINUATION OF PAROXETINE

Paroxetine is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake in hibitor (SSRI) class. In contrast to other SSRIs, it has a relatively short half-life and lacks active metabolites. In three patients the ab rupt discontinuation of paroxetine seemed associated with sudden and i mpairing effects. All three reported marked sleep disturbances and diz ziness. They were prescribed the drug for a minimum of 10 weeks, and t he maximum dosage was 40 mg/day. All patients experienced rapid remiss ion of symptoms after paroxetine was reintroduced. We failed to observ e similar reactions from the abrupt discontinuation at lower dosages. Gradual tapering of the agent for patients receiving more than 20 mg/d ay is recommended.