wean off
Phase out slowly
To wean off something is to gradually reduce dependence on it until you no longer need it.
The phrase comes from weaning infants from breast milk, but applies broadly to medications, habits, or anything requiring slow withdrawal rather than abrupt cessation: The doctor is weaning me off the antidepressants.
I'm trying to wean myself off caffeine.
- withdrawRemove or pull away
- taperingProgressive decrease in width
- cut backReduce or curtail
- withdrawal symptomsEffects of stopping dependence
- abstinenceVoluntary forgoing of indulgences
gradual reduction · go without · pharmacotherapy · sobriety · break free · clean living · detoxification · cold turkey · dependency · counseling · adjustment · self-control · support groups · moderation · triggers · rehabilitation · coping mechanisms · relapse prevention