Psychopharmacology mnemonic

SSRI discontinuation syndrome

The mnemonic

FINISH

What each word stands for

  • FFlu-like symptoms
  • IInsomnia
  • NNausea
  • IImbalance (dizziness)
  • SSensory disturbances (paraesthesia)
  • HHyperarousal (anxiety)

Why it matters clinically

Taper SSRIs gradually; short half-life drugs such as paroxetine cause it most.

Where it stops being reliable

Not a measure of severity, and symptoms may mimic relapse.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Psychopharmacology mnemonic?

FINISH. It helps you recall: SSRI discontinuation syndrome.

What does "F" stand for?

Flu-like symptoms

What does "I" stand for?

Imbalance (dizziness)

What does "N" stand for?

Nausea

What are all the parts of the FINISH mnemonic?

F: Flu-like symptoms; I: Insomnia; N: Nausea; I: Imbalance (dizziness); S: Sensory disturbances (paraesthesia); H: Hyperarousal (anxiety).

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Psychopharmacology in Psychiatry.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Not a measure of severity, and symptoms may mimic relapse.

How is this useful clinically?

Taper SSRIs gradually; short half-life drugs such as paroxetine cause it most.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Psychiatry question about Psychopharmacology.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.