Antidepressant withdrawal — GPhC CRA MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Taper in stages, using smaller reductions at low doses
Paroxetine has a high withdrawal-symptom risk because of its short half-life. NICE advises staged dose reductions, often proportionate to the current dose and smaller near the end, with the pace guided by symptoms. Alternate-day dosing can create fluctuating concentrations.
Reference: NICE NG222: depression in adults — stopping antidepressants: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng222/chapter/Recommendations#stopping-antidepressant-medication