Physical dependence to antidepressants may occur in some patients, caused by adaptation of the brain to long-term use of the medication. As pharmacologically defined, this physical dependence is a distinct phenomenon from addiction, and is manifested by a drug withdrawal syndrome.

Longer duration of treatment with antidepressants may increase the incidence and severity, and perhaps duration, of antidepressant withdrawal.

Serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors and paroxetine are associated with a higher risk of withdrawal effects compared with other antidepressants.

Based on characteristics of antidepressant use, such as type, duration, dose and past experience, we have developed a preliminary tool to aid estimation of the risk of withdrawal effects on stopping. Further research is required to validate this tool.