TaperCareby FeelGround
Integrative mental health

Tapering guide

Antipsychotics

Antipsychotics are increasingly prescribed for depression, anxiety and sleep. Stopping quickly is linked with a higher relapse risk; research suggests slow, hyperbolic reductions over months.

Common withdrawal effects

  • Insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Restlessness
  • Return of psychotic symptoms (rapid stops)

Tapering principles

1

Hyperbolic reductions

Reducing by ~5–10% of the current dose each month may minimise relapse risk (Horowitz et al., 2021).

2

Monitor closely

Agree early warning signs with your care team before you begin.

Before you begin

  • Requires specialist oversight, especially with a history of psychosis or bipolar disorder.

Research & sources

  1. 01
    A method for tapering antipsychotic treatment that may minimize the risk of relapse

    Horowitz, Jauhar, Natesan, Murray & Taylor, Schizophrenia Bulletin, 2021

  2. 02
    The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines

    Horowitz & Taylor, Wiley-Blackwell, 2024