HomeAnswersPsychologist/ Counselormental healthI have been taking Fluoxetine 20 mg for my mental illness, but I want to stop my medication now. Should I consult a psychiatrist?

Should a patient with a mental illness consult a psychiatrist before stopping medications?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Ashok Kumar

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At February 15, 2023
Reviewed AtFebruary 17, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I was with a psychiatrist for about 18 sessions. During this time, I also moved on to a psychologist as the psychiatrist felt she could not come across. I continue to take the medication. I stopped and then restarted after she told me to continue. When asked when I could stop, she said to let a psychiatrist review it. Is this fair? The medication is a tablet Fluoxetine 20 mg. My mood has stabilized, but I sleep two thirds of the day. I do not attribute this to this drug but partially. I consulted another psychiatrist online, and she advised me to take tablet Bupropion as she said that tablet Fludac, when taken continuously, makes me lazy. Each one has different views. What should I do?

Answered by Dr. Ashok Kumar

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Most people have their own experience, which determines the prescribing trend. In addition, for every single disorder, there are multiple effective options, and as per the patient's need, they can supplement each other. For example, the advice of an online doctor for Bupropion instead of Fluoxetine can be explained based on the same principle. I do not understand how a psychiatrist can say that you need to review with a psychiatrist before you discontinue the medication. Every psychiatrist is eligible to review the medication and should do it when there is a question from your end.

Regarding the next step, you need to stick to a single doctor as, over time, he will be able to understand you better, and more help will be available at their dispense. The doctor can be either online or in person. You may consider me for the same if you are satisfied with my credentials.

I hope this helps you.

If you have more questions, I will be glad to assist you.

Thanks and regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Ashok Kumar
Dr. Ashok Kumar

Geriatrics

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