Often there is a need or want for a patient to stop an antidepressant. For some antidepressants, like fluoxetine, this is easy. For other antidepressants, such as venlafaxine, this is notoriously difficult and uncomfortable with symptoms such as malaise, fatigue, nausea, achiness, and more. When discontinuing antidepressants, many people search for ways to minimize potential withdrawal symptoms, referred to as “discontinuation syndrome.” Two supplements recently began appearing on social media claiming to minimize these symptoms: high-dose omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium. Both have been studied for their potential benefits in treating depressive symptoms, but is there any evidence to support their use specifically for minimizing discontinuation syndrome?

Most people would probably prefer not to take any medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The concern every parent has when deciding to use medication or not during pregnancy is whether their actions could harm their unborn child. Many also assume giving medication to the birthing parent will harm the fetus. This idea is false and harmful because during pregnancy, mother and fetus are inseparable, otherwise known as a dyad.

The biggest harm with an all-or-nothing approach is this: when medications are stopped, changed, or not started during pregnancy, this can cause mental health issues that result in pregnancy complications.

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. ADHD is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning or development. It is important to note that individuals with ADHD are often very intelligent.