Which are common withdrawal or discontinuation effects associated with antipsychotics?

• A. Weight gain and sedation; abrupt discontinuation recommended.
• B. Improved functioning after stopping; no withdrawal.
• C. Rebound psychosis, nausea, insomnia, agitation or anxiety; gradual tapering and monitoring.
• D. Dependency requires immediate abrupt cessation to avoid overdose.

Answer: (C)

Stopping antipsychotics can trigger withdrawal effects because the brain needs time to readjust after blocking dopamine receptors. When you discontinue suddenly, the brain can rebound, leading to a return or worsening of psychotic symptoms along with other uncomfortable symptoms like nausea, insomnia, agitation, or anxiety. That’s why the recommended approach is a gradual taper combined with careful monitoring—so symptoms can be managed, and relapse can be caught early if it arises.

Weight gain and sedation are common side effects that occur while someone is taking the medication, not withdrawal symptoms after stopping. So suggesting abrupt discontinuation as a rule isn’t accurate. Improved functioning after stopping isn’t something to expect or aim for, since stopping an effective antipsychotic can deprive a person of symptom control. And there isn’t a principle that immediate abrupt cessation is needed to avoid overdose; antipsychotics aren’t typically treated with abrupt stopping to prevent overdose.