E287 - Deprescribing Practices in Psychiatry with Drs. Stephen Stahl and Jeffrey Strawn

E287 - Deprescribing Practices in Psychiatry with Drs. Stephen Stahl and Jeffrey Strawn

Author: Neuroscience Education Institute July 29, 2026 Duration: 55:25

In this episode, Dr. Andy Cutler is joined by Drs. Stephen Stahl and Jeffrey Strawn to discuss deprescribing practices in psychiatry. They explore why deprescribing is an essential clinical skill, how to determine whether a patient still needs a medication, dose, or combination, and how to approach tapering in a way that balances relapse prevention, withdrawal risk, and patient-centered care. The conversation also covers practical considerations for deprescribing antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and sedative-hypnotics, with attention to common pitfalls and strategies for safer, more intentional medication management. 

Stephen M. Stahl, MD, PhD, DSc (Hon.), is a psychiatrist, psychopharmacologist, and internationally recognized educator in clinical neuroscience and psychopharmacology. He is the author of widely used educational resources including Stahl's Essential Psychopharmacology, Stahl's Prescriber's Guide, and Stahl's Deprescriber's Guide, and his work focuses on translating complex neurobiology into practical clinical concepts for mental health clinicians. 

Jeffrey R. Strawn, MD, FAACAP, is a Professor of Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Clinical & Translational Pharmacology at the University of Cincinnati, Ohio. He is Director of the UC Anxiety Disorders Research Program and Associate Vice Chair of Research in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience at UC, and he is the author of Stahl's Deprescriber's Guide. 

Andrew J. Cutler, MD, is a distinguished psychiatrist and researcher with extensive experience in clinical trials and psychopharmacology. He currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer of Neuroscience Education Institute and EMA Wellness. He is a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. 

Resources 

Strawn, JR, Stahl SM. Stahl's Deprescriber's Guide. Cambridge University Press; 2026. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009642187 

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The NEI Podcast, from the Neuroscience Education Institute, moves beyond standard medical lectures to explore the nuanced realities of psychiatric practice. This series connects directly with the clinicians and researchers shaping modern thought, offering detailed conversations on psychopharmacology, emerging therapies, and the complex nature of neuropsychiatric diseases. You'll hear experts break down current challenges, from diagnosis to treatment strategies, in a format designed for deep understanding. It’s a resource built for those who care for the mind, providing continuing education that feels less like a requirement and more like a vital dialogue. The discussions naturally evolve from the latest evidence and clinical experience, ensuring each episode addresses the practical questions faced in daily practice. Tune in for a thoughtful examination of mental health science, where learning is woven into every conversation. This podcast serves as an ongoing forum for anyone dedicated to advancing their knowledge in psychiatry and neurology, emphasizing the critical connection between education and improved patient outcomes. The Neuroscience Education Institute grounds each session in its mission to elevate the standard of care through imaginative, high-level learning.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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