After an extensive review of the literature, the research team included data from 50 randomized controlled trials that included assessment of symptoms following discontinuation of antidepressant medications. Most of the 17,828 individuals in these studies were taking antidepressants for depressive or anxiety disorders. To evaluate withdrawal symptoms, the studies either utilized the Discontinuation-Emergent Signs and Symptoms scale (DESS) or recorded specific adverse events following discontinuation. Of the 50 studies, 19 utilized the DESS and 45 recorded individual symptoms following discontinuation.