Tapering Off Escitalopram

Recommended Tapering Schedule

• The Mayo Clinic recommends reducing escitalopram by 25% of the current dose every 1-2 weeks initially, with a taper duration of at least 4 weeks or longer 1
• A hyperbolic (percentage-based) tapering approach is superior to linear tapering, with a recommended reduction of 25% of the current dose every 1-2 weeks initially, and 10% reductions as the dose approaches lower levels 1

Managing Withdrawal Symptoms

• The Mayo Clinic suggests pausing the taper if needed, and monitoring patients at least monthly during the taper, with more frequent contact during difficult phases 1

Critical Pitfalls to Avoid

• The Mayo Clinic advises against abandoning the patient during tapering, emphasizing the importance of frequent follow-up 1

Special Considerations

• The taper rate must be determined by the patient's tolerance, not a rigid schedule, according to the Mayo Clinic 1