SSRI discontinuation syndrome
A cluster of symptoms occurring when SSRIs are stopped abruptly or tapered too quickly. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, flu-like sensations, irritability, insomnia, and "brain zaps" — brief electric shock-like sensations in the head or extremities. Severity varies by drug: highest risk with paroxetine and venlafaxine; lowest with fluoxetine (despite its long washout time). Always requires a clinician-supervised taper. Relevant for anyone considering transitioning from SSRIs to psilocybin therapy.
Full Explanation
SSRI discontinuation syndrome is a cluster of symptoms occurring when SSRIs are stopped abruptly or tapered too quickly. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, flu-like sensations, irritability, insomnia, and "brain zaps" — brief electric shock-like sensations in the head or extremities. Severity varies by drug: highest risk with paroxetine and venlafaxine; lowest with fluoxetine (despite its long washout time). Always requires a clinician-supervised taper. Relevant for anyone considering transitioning from SSRIs to psilocybin therapy.
See: Microdosing on SSRIs (/guides/microdosing-on-ssris).
Why It Matters
Knowing about SSRI discontinuation syndrome is essential when planning a switch from an SSRI to psilocybin — tapering must be gradual and supervised.
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Psilocybin
A naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms that produces altered states of consciousness.
Psilocin
The pharmacologically active compound that psilocybin converts to in the body, responsible for psychedelic effects.
Ego Death
A temporary dissolution of the sense of self during a psychedelic experience, often described as profound and transformative.
Set and Setting
The combination of mindset (set) and environment (setting) that shapes a psychedelic experience.
Microdosing
Taking sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin on a regular schedule for subtle cognitive and emotional benefits.
Mycelium
The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments that eventually produces mushrooms.