Brain Zaps and Antidepressants - Why Do they Happen?
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Published 2018-10-03
In this case were talking about what you see when you stop the serotonin enhancing antidepressants.
An easy way to remember these symptoms is with the mnemonic FINISH
F - Flulike symptoms.
I - insomnia.
N - nausea or maybe even vomiting.
I - imbalance like dizziness or even vertigo like your head is spinning.
S - sensory disturbances and that would be the electric shocks that seem to be coming from your brain.
H - for hyperarousal and this would be anxiety, irritability, aggression or even jerkiness.
Disclaimer: All of the information on this channel is for educational purposes and not intended to be specific/personal medical advice from me to you. Watching the videos or getting answers to comments/question, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you have your own doctor, perhaps these videos can help prepare you for your discussion with your doctor.
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All Comments (21)
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WATCH NEXT: Are Antidepressants Addictive? https://youtu.be/Ux0FHPux6J0
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To all the homies coming off the meds you got this!! It comes to an end eventually!! Love you all and wish you luck!!
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Ive gone through this maybe 4 or 5 times. Running out of my meds, canβt get them, but whatever the reason, Brain Zaps are no joke. They can be debilitating. It literally feels like every time you shift your eyes, someone is shocking you with a defibrillator. Brutal.
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I tried to tell my Dr I was experiencing these symptoms and she looked at me like I had 5 heads.... Thank you for explaining this. π€¦ββοΈ
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I have all of these symptoms at the moment, i started yesterday even though i stopped 5 days ago. Wish health to everyone who is reading
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I'm going through this right now. Brain zaps, nausea/dry heaving, mood swings, vivid dreams, and body aches. It's not fun.
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I'm going through this right now coming off of Zoloft. No matter how bad things get, know YOU ARE NOT ALONE. It is very difficult and is effecting everyday life for me with the constant brain zaps, irritability and emotions, but I know that I am not alone. There are always people who have it much worse than you. Keep your head up and we will get through this TOGETHER!
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I've been taking antidepressants for many, many years and I've never had any of my many doctors explain the FINISH symptoms, which I've experienced while getting on and off medications. Thank you so much! I'm so glad I've discovered you!!
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Good video! 3,5 weeks off of Sertraline. Had brainzaps all over the place. Weird kind of dizzyness. Still experience them, but less often. Or I am getting used to it π€? Dreams? Yes! Emotion outbursts: Yes! Iβm embracing it. I am healing. Stay strong everybody! π»
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This 100000% needs to be talked about more. This symptom alone has influenced and will continue to influence how I go about almost every aspect of my life as someone with Bipolar 2 disorder. For anyone finding out which medications are right for them, this can end their journey towards seeking help altogether.
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This woman is incredible! She covers so much and has such a 360 view on issues
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I recently stopped cold turkey from sertraline/Zoloft (yes I know not advisable, but I hate the thought of having to ween off for months, so I'd rather just tough it out for a couple weeks). The worst part is the fatigue I have been experiencing, I have been getting the zapping sensation but not nearly as bad as it seems as others. One thing that I've noticed that almost completely eliminates withdrawal symptoms is EXERCISE. Specifically cardio, I've been using a stationary bike at home. I've noticed my symptoms are worse just laying around and giving into the fatigue. Trust me, get up, get moving, get your blood flowing, eat nutritious food.
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Doctor Marks, it is no exaggeration that as someone who suffers from panic disorders and was taking Paxil, your videos have greatly improved my life and been such a warm comfort during my lowest points. Thank you.
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None, NONE, of my doctor knew what I was talking about with this years ago. Thankful new patients have an explanation. It took YEARS for mine o end.
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I have been seeing your videos and you are great!!! I am a psychiatrist myself based on mexico city and you inspired me to start a channel like this for Mexican patients. Great work psychoeducating!!! ππ»
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This video is over a year old but I am so glad I found it. You have at the very least given me a term for these nervous system zaps Iβve been experiencing. It was so hard trying to explain this feeling to my therapist. Thank you so much!!ππ½ππ½ππ½
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I love how she speaks in an informative manner with that calm demeanor.
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I quit cymbalta a few years ago, tapered and then was opening my pills and breaking them down until I was barely taking any. Still had intense brain zaps for a month plus. If you are suffering through this right now just know that you're not alone and you'll get through it. Exercise helps.
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She is THE best clinician out there. She helped me understand my Unipolar depression. I absolutely adore her and she is brilliant and so communicative. Thank you for all your help Dr!!
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I just want to say that I am so thankful for these videos. Even with a 1 hour long session with my doctor, I don't get this much information. You are awesome!
