In a new study, researchers investigated the existing literature on post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), a type of persistent antidepressant withdrawal that can appear days, weeks, or even months after stopping the drug. While PAWS can be a debilitating experience, there is very little research on its prevalence and treatment.
The researchers were able to find only seven papers investigating PAWS, which included a case report, a case series, and three online surveys. There was only one randomized controlled trial (RCT) and one prospective cohort study. The studies were small and had methodological problems, leaving uncertainty as to the true prevalence of PAWS, how long it lasts, how it might best be avoided, and how to treat it when it does occur.
“The current evidence on PAWS is sparse and predominantly of low certainty. The presence of withdrawal symptoms, lasting several months and possibly even years in some patients, underscores the need for further research with rigorous methodology,” the researchers write.
The study was conducted by Andri Rennwald at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Switzerland, and Michael P. Hengartner at Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences, Switzerland. It was published in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences.
You've landed on a MIA journalism article that is funded by MIA supporters. To read the full article, sign up as a MIA Supporter. All active donors get full access to all MIA content, and free passes to all Mad in America events.
Current MIA supporters can log in below.(If you can't afford to support MIA in this way, email us at [email protected] and we will provide you with access to all donor-supported content.)
