Structured Deprescribing

Deprescribing is the careful, medically supervised process of reducing psychiatric medication when a thorough review suggests it may be clinically appropriate – usually gradually, and always with support.

Structured, evidence-based tapering tailored to your medication, dose, duration of use, and how you respond – not a one-size-fits-all schedule. Where clinically appropriate, we follow hyperbolic tapering principles, in line with the current evidence base on gradual reduction.

You can slow down, pause, or adjust at any point. The plan is reviewed at each check-in.

We support structured deprescribing for a range of long-term psychiatric medications – including antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilisers, and benzodiazepines – when a full assessment suggests reduction may be appropriate.

Each plan is tailored to the specific medication, dose, and your clinical history. Suitability is confirmed at the initial 90-minute assessment.

Reducing psychiatric medication can be done safely when it is clinically appropriate, properly planned, and medically supervised. Every deprescribing decision follows a full psychiatric assessment and is made collaboratively with you.

Never stop or change your medication without consulting a qualified doctor.

No. Stopping psychiatric medication suddenly can cause significant withdrawal symptoms and other risks. Structured deprescribing means gradual, planned reduction with medical supervision at every step.

Not necessarily. For some people, the right outcome is a lower, well-tolerated dose rather than stopping entirely. Your target is decided collaboratively following a full assessment.

Often, yes. Many people take more than one psychiatric medication, and the plan may focus on reducing one drug at a time while keeping others stable – depending on your history, current symptoms, and what is clinically safe.

This is mapped out carefully in your written taper plan following the initial assessment.

There is no fixed timeline – it depends on your medication, dose, and how you respond. Some people take several months; others longer. You set the pace.

A comprehensive 90-minute consultation – by secure video or in person – covering your psychiatric history, current medication, reasons for wanting to reduce, lifestyle context, and goals. A consultation report is provided afterwards.

From there, we discuss honestly whether structured deprescribing is appropriate for you. There is no obligation to proceed if the assessment suggests this is not the right time.

No. The initial assessment is a thorough review, not a commitment. If we agree a taper plan is appropriate, you decide whether and when to proceed. You can pause or stop the process at any stage.

Some people experience withdrawal or rebound symptoms when reducing psychiatric medication. That is why tapering is medically supervised, with regular check-ins and a written plan that can be slowed or paused if symptoms emerge.

If symptoms worsen, we adjust the plan together and agree a clear escalation pathway – including when to seek urgent help if needed.

New or worsening symptoms during a taper do not always mean your original condition is returning. Withdrawal and relapse can feel similar but often need different responses – which is why we review symptoms at each check-in rather than pushing ahead on a fixed schedule.

Read more in our guide on withdrawal versus relapse.

Many people come to us when their GP is unable to offer a structured medication review – often because of time limits or lack of specialist tapering experience. We work as a consultant-led service and keep your GP informed with shared care letters where appropriate.

Collaboration with your GP remains important for safe prescribing, and we discuss this openly at assessment.

Yes. We see patients UK-wide by secure video, and in person where available. The initial assessment, taper planning, and follow-up check-ins can all be conducted remotely if that suits you.

No referral is needed. You can enquire directly and book an initial assessment if structured deprescribing may be appropriate for you.

Yes. We keep your GP informed throughout the process. A collaborative relationship with your GP is an important part of safe deprescribing.

We do not currently accept private health insurance. Fees are paid directly by you. See our fees and appointments page for current rates.

Fees depend on the type and length of consultation. See our fees and appointments page for current rates.

We are not a crisis service and cannot provide immediate support. If you are in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support, contact NHS 111 (call 111), Samaritans (116 123), or text SHOUT to 85258.