Brain zaps are a recognized sensory phenomenon, sometimes called “brain shakes,” “brain shocks,” or “brain shivers.” While commonly known as brain zaps, the medical community often refers to them as a component of antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. These sensations are a common experience for individuals who have made changes to certain medications.
The Sensation of Brain Zaps
Brain zaps are primarily described as brief, electrical shock-like sensations occurring inside the head. This feeling can sometimes extend beyond the brain, radiating into other parts of the body, such as down the spine or into the arms. The intensity of these sensations can vary significantly, ranging from a mild, barely noticeable vibration to a strong, alarming jolt. Many people report that while these sensations are unusual and can be startling, they are typically not painful.
The subjective experience of a brain zap often includes accompanying sensory disturbances. Some individuals describe a buzzing, whooshing, or crackling sound that occurs concurrently with the electrical feeling. There can also be brief moments of disorientation, dizziness, or a sensation of vertigo. Some people even report visual effects, such as flashes of light, or auditory effects like ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
A notable aspect of brain zaps is their connection to eye movement. Many report that moving their eyes from side to side, especially rapid eye movements, can trigger these sensations. This can include the perception of “hearing their eyes move,” described as a faint “whoosh” sound. The sensation is internal, though it is understood to occur on the surface and around the nerves lining the brain.
These episodes are very short-lived, often lasting only a second or two, though they can occur multiple times in succession. While unsettling, the experience is described as an internal phenomenon, not an actual external electrical shock.
Common Triggers and Causes
Brain zaps are most commonly associated with changes in medication, particularly the reduction or discontinuation of certain drugs. The primary cause linked to brain zaps is antidepressant withdrawal, often referred to as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. This syndrome can occur when a person decreases their dosage or stops taking antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Medications like paroxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine, fluoxetine, and duloxetine are frequently mentioned in connection with this symptom.
The exact mechanism behind brain zaps is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve disruptions in the brain’s neurotransmitter systems. When antidepressants, which work by altering levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, are abruptly stopped or tapered too quickly, the brain’s chemistry can become imbalanced. This sudden shift in neurotransmitter levels, particularly serotonin, is believed to contribute to the occurrence of brain zaps.
While antidepressant withdrawal is the most frequent trigger, brain zaps can also be associated with other medications. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines has also been reported to cause these sensations. Similarly, discontinuing stimulant medications like amphetamine salts or recreational drugs such as MDMA can sometimes lead to brain zaps.
Other factors can also act as triggers or risk factors for brain zaps. These include stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, which can heighten nervous system activity. Caffeine consumption or certain physical movements like walking or running can also occasionally trigger them. Sometimes, even forgetting to take a regular dose of medication can induce a brain zap.
Duration and Reassurance
Brain zaps are temporary and do not indicate brain damage or a serious underlying condition. They are not considered harmful, though they can be uncomfortable. The sensations resolve as the body adjusts to changes in medication or other contributing factors.
For most individuals, brain zaps and other symptoms of antidepressant discontinuation syndrome subside within a few weeks after medication changes. Symptoms are most noticeable initially and gradually diminish over time. While some reports suggest brain zaps can persist for longer periods, this is uncommon.
Brain zaps are not seizures, and there is no evidence to suggest they lead to long-term negative health impacts. If brain zaps are significantly bothersome or persist for an extended period, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.