How To Start Thinking About Tapering Medications

You may be considering tapering off your medications for a number of reasons. Regardless of why you are considering this, it is important to discuss this with your prescriber. It is generally not safe to stop or alter your prescribed amount of medication without consulting with your provider. This can be particularly true when it comes to psychiatric medications.

Feeling that you can talk to your provider is important. If you feel that you aren’t being heard or that your prescriber doesn’t care you may be more likely to make changes on your own. Always consult with a psychiatric professional first before making changes to your medications.

How To Do It Right

1. Work with a Professional

Never stop or reduce psychiatric medication without the guidance of a psychiatric professional. With your prescriber you can develop a tapering schedule based on your unique medical history. You can monitor progress and make changes along the way.

2. Stay the Course

We can get inpatient, when we want change we tend to want it NOW. This is natural but not generally safe. Having a gradual taper can decrease the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms. This may take weeks or even months depending on a variety of factors such as the type of medication, dosage, how long you have been taking it etc. Trust the process and ask questions along the way if things don’t feel quite right.

3. Keep Track of How You’re Feeling

Make sure to document how you are feeling as you taper and any side effects you may be experiencing. This is valuable information for you to review with your provider to make sure that your taper is achieving the desired outcome. This can also make it easier to know when changes may need to happen or your plan may need to be readjusted.

4. Practice Basic Self-Care

Taking care of your health and wellness is always important, however, during a taper you may not pay as much attention to all of your needs. It is important to ensure that you are staying hydrated, getting the sleep you need as well as proper nutrition. Keep up with physical activity and exercise. Taking care of your wellness needs can let you know if you are experiencing symptoms related to your taper versus poor self-care.

5. Allow for Flexibility

Your symptoms before you started your medications may return and seem even more intense. If you are feeling overwhelmed you may wish to pause or slow your taper. This is alright, you are allowed to change your course with your provider. Allow yourself flexibility and remain open to the recommendations of your psychiatrist or psychiatric professional.

6. Get Help When You Need It

Tapering off medications can lead to severe side effects sometimes. If you experience severe changes in your mood or suicidal ideations reach out for help immediately. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. The same can be said if you experience intense physical withdrawal symptoms. If you find you can’t function in the ways you want to, talk to your provider. You don’t have to suffer, there are many other treatment options available to you.

Tapering In Conclusion

Tapering off medication is a process that requires patience, planning, and support. Having a provider you can talk to is paramount. This can make it easier for you to express your concerns and make changes as needed. It is easier to be flexible and change course when you are with a psychiatric professional who cares.

Carolina Counseling Services in Sanford, NC contracts with caring licensed psychiatric professionals. Find the provider that is right for you today. Online sessions are available making getting the care you need easier than ever before.

Providers are also in network with most major insurances to include Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna and Aetna State Health Plans. What are you waiting for? Call today to get started!