# Are psychiatric medicines addictive?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/are-psychiatric-medicines-addictive
For: Patients | Mental health care | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Most medicines for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychosis are not addictive in the sense of causing cravings. Some can cause unpleasant effects if stopped suddenly, which is why changes should be planned with your prescriber. A few medicines, such as some sleeping pills and sedatives, can cause dependence and are usually prescribed only for short periods. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the medicine you have been given.

Sources: NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/medicines-and-psychiatry/antidepressants/overview - NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/insomnia/ - Medsafe (New Zealand Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority): https://medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/educational-material/Stopping-Antidepressant-medicines.pdf

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