The experiences and perspectives of patients who use or have used antidepressants regarding the antidepressant discontinuation process: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Discontinuation of antidepressants possibly involves risks for patients such as experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Therefore patients should be properly guided and educated by health care providers (HCPs) in this process. The aim was to assess patients’ perspectives and needs who use or have used antidepressants regarding the antidepressant discontinuing process.

Methods: Six semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with patients who use or have used antidepressants for at least six months. These interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, coded openly with MAXQDA and thematically analyzed.

Results: Themes that emerged from the interviews, were in relation to perceptions and relations, expectations, reasons, initiative for discontinuation, education and guidance. It appeared that these factors influenced the decision-making in patients and therefore influenced the course of their discontinuation process. They made suggestions for improvement in these areas.

Conclusion: The needs of patients for guidance during the process of discontinuation of antidepressants are not fully met yet. There is a lack of initiative, knowledge and time of HCP’s. Education and guidance should involve perceptions, expectations and good relationships. Future research should prospectively examine whether adapting patients' wishes affects being able to discontinue successfully.