Multimodal antidepressant (serotonin reuptake + 5-HT receptor modulator)

Trintellix (vortioxetine) Withdrawal

Trintellix (vortioxetine) has a relatively mild discontinuation profile, helped substantially by its long half-life. Compared to SSRIs and especially SNRIs, withdrawal symptoms are less intense and less common. The FDA labeling does not require a tapering schedule for most patients, although a gradual reduction is still good practice.

By Dr. Ben Soffer, DO — board-certified physician, at-home ketamine therapy in Florida and New Jersey.

Half-life

~66 hours. One of the longer half-lives among modern antidepressants.

Withdrawal timeline

Onset— 3-7 days after the last dose

Delayed onset due to the long half-life.

Peak— Week 1-2

When symptoms do occur, intensity peaks in the second week.

Resolution— 2-3 weeks

Most patients are through any discontinuation symptoms within 2-3 weeks.

Common symptoms

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Mild dizziness
  • Irritability
  • Sleep disturbance

Less common

  • Flu-like fatigue
  • Anxiety rebound

Tapering guidance

  • A typical taper reduces by 5-10 mg every 1-2 weeks (e.g., 20 mg to 10 mg to 5 mg to off).
  • Some patients on the lowest doses can stop without a formal taper given the long half-life.
  • Coordinate any taper with the prescribing physician.

Where ketamine therapy fits

Trintellix and ketamine work through different mechanisms and are considered compatible. Continue Trintellix as prescribed during ketamine treatment unless the prescribing physician advises otherwise. The conversation about ketamine in a Trintellix context most often comes up when response has been partial after a full trial.

Check ketamine therapy eligibilityMedication safety with ketamine

Frequently asked questions

How long does Trintellix withdrawal last?

Most patients have mild symptoms peaking in the first 1-2 weeks after stopping, with full resolution within 2-3 weeks.

Is Trintellix compatible with ketamine therapy?

Yes. The two work through different mechanisms with no required washout. Continue your normal dose unless the prescribing physician advises otherwise.

Important: This page is informational and does not constitute medical advice or a recommendation to start, stop, or change any medication. Tapering psychiatric medications should always be coordinated with the prescribing physician. Compounded ketamine for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain is not FDA approved.

Browse all medication withdrawal guides.