Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Is It Safe To Stop Fluextine 40mg After 6 Months?
Question: Hello, my 16 year old daughter has been on Fluextine 40mg for 6 months. We just found out she stopped taking it 2.5 weeks ago. What do we need to do? Do we have her take it or stop? Thank you.
Brief Answer:
Discontinuation of anti-depressant by tapered dose
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
As she has already stopped medicine, and if she is not experiencing any symptoms then nothing much to worry.
But first of all I need know, for what condition she was started on fluoxetine and the reason of stopping it.
If she develops any withdrawal symptoms, then need to start fluoxetine again, at low doses.
Please let me know the condition, for which she was on fluoxetine previously.
I Hope Your Query is clear now.
Thank You
Discontinuation of anti-depressant by tapered dose
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
As she has already stopped medicine, and if she is not experiencing any symptoms then nothing much to worry.
But first of all I need know, for what condition she was started on fluoxetine and the reason of stopping it.
If she develops any withdrawal symptoms, then need to start fluoxetine again, at low doses.
Please let me know the condition, for which she was on fluoxetine previously.
I Hope Your Query is clear now.
Thank You
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Hello Dr,
Thanks for the quick feedback.
We put XXXXXXX on Fluoxetine two years ago as she was going through high anxiety times in 8th grade which caused her relationship issues with friends and defiance at home. She would have very angry outbursts in our home and showed signs of anxiety with sports, school, and social media. We put her on Fluoxetine starting at 10 and as of 6 months ago raised it to 40. She has had a good sophmore year in college, she still has stubborn and independent traits she displays at home. However, she has made great friends and became more confident at school and sports.
She had talked about wanting to not take the medicine anymore to my wife. My wife told her that we would need to talk to the doctor and make a plan. We got a phone call from her best friend and her best friend's mom that they were worried about XXXXXXX Her friend said she has been a roller coaster of emotions and mean to her at times the last couple months. She also mentioned that XXXXXXX referenced suicide, stating that she may not see her when she comes back. The friend was pretty shook about it as they are best friends, and she is worried about Sam's well-being. XXXXXXX has ruined past friendships due to similar behavior prior to medication.
My wife is with XXXXXXX at a softball tournament and she is doing fine and playing ball and has a good attitude this weekend. My wife approached her about the medication only, not the phone call and XXXXXXX stated that she hasn't taken any medication for about 2.5 weeks, as she doesn't want to be on it. My wife counseled her on the importance of taking the medication and that it could cause side affects if not done properly. We are now worried about what to do. Do we give her the medicine when they get back home Monday? Do we stop taking it and get with her Psychologist on Tuesday if they can take the call? The phone call from her friend is a cause for concern. XXXXXXX doesn't communicate with us very well at all, so it is hard to ask her questions and get answers. Thanks for your help on this matter.
Dan
Thanks for the quick feedback.
We put XXXXXXX on Fluoxetine two years ago as she was going through high anxiety times in 8th grade which caused her relationship issues with friends and defiance at home. She would have very angry outbursts in our home and showed signs of anxiety with sports, school, and social media. We put her on Fluoxetine starting at 10 and as of 6 months ago raised it to 40. She has had a good sophmore year in college, she still has stubborn and independent traits she displays at home. However, she has made great friends and became more confident at school and sports.
She had talked about wanting to not take the medicine anymore to my wife. My wife told her that we would need to talk to the doctor and make a plan. We got a phone call from her best friend and her best friend's mom that they were worried about XXXXXXX Her friend said she has been a roller coaster of emotions and mean to her at times the last couple months. She also mentioned that XXXXXXX referenced suicide, stating that she may not see her when she comes back. The friend was pretty shook about it as they are best friends, and she is worried about Sam's well-being. XXXXXXX has ruined past friendships due to similar behavior prior to medication.
My wife is with XXXXXXX at a softball tournament and she is doing fine and playing ball and has a good attitude this weekend. My wife approached her about the medication only, not the phone call and XXXXXXX stated that she hasn't taken any medication for about 2.5 weeks, as she doesn't want to be on it. My wife counseled her on the importance of taking the medication and that it could cause side affects if not done properly. We are now worried about what to do. Do we give her the medicine when they get back home Monday? Do we stop taking it and get with her Psychologist on Tuesday if they can take the call? The phone call from her friend is a cause for concern. XXXXXXX doesn't communicate with us very well at all, so it is hard to ask her questions and get answers. Thanks for your help on this matter.
Dan
Brief Answer:
Please see detailed answer
Detailed Answer:
Hi
I Am Dr Diwashish
Welcome To Ask A Doctor Service
Encourage open communication: Despite Sam's difficulty in communicating, it's important to create an open and supportive environment. Let her know that you are there to listen without judgment and that her well-being is your priority. Reassure her that you want to work together to find the best solution.
Discuss the situation as a family: When you have the opportunity, sit down with XXXXXXX and your wife to have an open conversation about her medication, her feelings, and the concerns raised by her friend. Try to understand her reasons for stopping the medication and address any fears or misconceptions she may have. Encourage her to express her emotions and thoughts, and be empathetic and patient throughout the discussion.
Remember, the advice provided here is not a substitute for professional medical guidance. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who has a comprehensive understanding of Sam's situation and can provide appropriate recommendations based on her individual needs.
And about fluoxetine.. As she is still having issue, Tab you need to give her the medicine again.
Counsel her to start at low dose and then increase the dose gradually under guidance of psychiatrist.
I Hope Your Query is clear now.
Thank You
Please see detailed answer
Detailed Answer:
Hi
I Am Dr Diwashish
Welcome To Ask A Doctor Service
Encourage open communication: Despite Sam's difficulty in communicating, it's important to create an open and supportive environment. Let her know that you are there to listen without judgment and that her well-being is your priority. Reassure her that you want to work together to find the best solution.
Discuss the situation as a family: When you have the opportunity, sit down with XXXXXXX and your wife to have an open conversation about her medication, her feelings, and the concerns raised by her friend. Try to understand her reasons for stopping the medication and address any fears or misconceptions she may have. Encourage her to express her emotions and thoughts, and be empathetic and patient throughout the discussion.
Remember, the advice provided here is not a substitute for professional medical guidance. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who has a comprehensive understanding of Sam's situation and can provide appropriate recommendations based on her individual needs.
And about fluoxetine.. As she is still having issue, Tab you need to give her the medicine again.
Counsel her to start at low dose and then increase the dose gradually under guidance of psychiatrist.
I Hope Your Query is clear now.
Thank You
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
