Antidepressant Tapering Schedule Calculator

Provides a gradual tapering schedule for antidepressant discontinuation to reduce withdrawal symptoms. Reductions are typically 10-25% of the current dose per step, with longer tapers for higher-risk agents (e.g., venlafaxine, paroxetine).

mg

Enter the current prescribed dose in mg

%

Recommended 10% for moderate-risk agents, 25% for low-risk agents, 5% for high-risk agents

weeks

Typically 2-4 weeks per step; longer for short half-life agents

mg

Usually 0 mg; some patients may stop at a very low dose

Note: Liquid formulations can facilitate small dose adjustments. For very low doses, some patients may use alternate-day dosing, though this is controversial and may destabilize plasma levels.

References

  1. Going off antidepressants. Harvard Health Publishing (2022). https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants
  2. Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome. UpToDate (2024). https://www.uptodate.com/contents/antidepressant-discontinuation-syndrome
  3. Guidelines for stopping antidepressants. NICE / NHS (2022). https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg90
Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

  • This calculator provides general guidance only; tapering must be individualized by a clinician.
  • Withdrawal symptoms can occur even with gradual tapers; patients should be monitored closely.
  • Short half-life agents (paroxetine, venlafaxine) and high serotonin affinity agents are higher risk.
  • Do not discontinue antidepressants abruptly except in emergencies (e.g., serotonin syndrome, severe adverse reaction).