Wellbutrin Withdrawal

Although Wellbutrin is considered to be non-habit-forming, in some cases, withdrawal symptoms can occur in some individuals when discontinuing use of the medication.

Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms, although rare, might include the following:

• Increased irritability
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth or cottonmouth
• Dizziness or disorientation
• Rashes
• Sweating excessively
• Auditory disturbances
• Cardiac arrhythmia

Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms tend to be minimal, if not unnoticeable. At the end of the day, frequency of use and certain biological factors can play a role in the severity of withdrawal symptoms. 

The most common symptoms reported by individuals taking Wellbutrin after discontinuing use are agitation and irritability.

More on Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin (known generically as bupropion hydrochloride) is an antidepressant medication, an aminoketone that shares chemical similarities with diethylpropion. 

Wellbutrin was approved for clinical use in the United States in 1985. It has since become one of the most prescribed medications for the treatment of depression in the western world. 

Wellbutrin is most commonly used to treat depression but has also been shown to be beneficial in quitting smoking. Those who take Wellbutrin do so to decrease symptoms of depression, and many men who take Wellbutrin have reported an increase in libido as well.

Currently, researchers are looking into Wellbutrin as a possible aid in treating methamphetamine addiction.

Wellbutrin Dosage

Wellbutrin should only be taken as prescribed by an experienced medical professional. Generally, a doctor will recommend a starting dose of 200 mg per day, which is given as a 100-mg tablet twice in a 24-hour period. 

After taking Wellbutrin for at least three days, individuals may increase the dosage to 300 mg per day, which is generally given in 100-mg increments three times each day with at least six hours between each successive dose. 

If an individual is not showing signs of improvement, a daily maximum dosage of 450 mg may be prescribed, which is given in doses that should not exceed 150 mg. Even those who do not show quick signs of progress should not take more than 150 mg in a single dose.

Wellbutrin Interactions

Drugs.com asserts that there are 484 drugs that interact with Wellbutrin/bupropion. As a result, it is important to consult with your doctor before taking Wellbutrin, especially if you are taking any other sort of medication or dietary supplements.

Wellbutrin also interacts with alcohol and can increase the risk of unwanted side effects. Seizures, hallucinations, paranoia, suicidal ideation, and panic attacks can result from drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin.

In addition, drinking alcohol excessively can certainly curb any progress an individual makes in the treatment of their depression. Those who overuse and abuse alcohol tend to go through depressive episodes and exhibit risky behaviors that can work toward augmenting depression. 

How Long Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Last? 

Those who experience symptoms of withdrawal after discontinuing Wellbutrin use generally report feeling undesirable symptoms around two days after stopping the medication. Withdrawal symptoms can last seven days or even longer and depend on certain physiological factors as well as the frequency of use.

Signs Somebody Is Going Through Wellbutrin Withdrawal

Although Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms tend to be minimal, if noticeable at all, there are certain telltale signs that a person is going through Wellbutrin withdrawal.

Change in mood is largely the most common withdrawal symptom, especially increased irritability and agitation. Excessive sweating and shaking are also common signs of Wellbutrin withdrawal as are restless leg syndrome and insomnia.

A person going through Wellbutrin withdrawal may develop rashes and experience compromised coordination. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms after discontinuing Wellbutrin use, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately and consult with your doctor to report undesirable and unwanted symptoms. 

Treatment Options for Withdrawal

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of withdrawal after quitting Wellbutrin, it is best to consult with a doctor to determine the best path forward. They may recommend you begin taking Wellbutrin again and then slowly taper your dosage to avoid withdrawal symptoms. In some instances, they may recommend you switch to another medication.

Typically, certain lifestyle habits can help with Wellbutrin withdrawal, including eating whole foods, engaging in a regular exercise regimen, and incorporating certain mindfulness techniques into daily life, such as meditation.

Those who have been taking Wellbutrin for depression can explore different types of therapy to reduce depression. If you experience any suicidal ideation after quitting Wellbutrin, this is a medical emergency. Immediately contact your doctor or therapist.

For those who use Wellbutrin to quit smoking, nicotine patches can sometimes prove beneficial in reducing cravings and agitation.

Once an individual has discontinued Wellbutrin use, certain dietary supplements may help to reduce irritability and promote overall wellness. St. John’s wort and DHEA may help, but it’s important to discuss the use of any supplement with your doctor before taking it.  

References

Bupropion. (May 2022). StatPearls. 

Wellbutrin Dosage Guide. (April 2022). Drugs.com.

Bupropion XL and SR Have Similar Effectiveness and Adverse Event Profiles When Used to Treat Smoking Among Patients at a Comprehensive Cancer Center. (March 2022). The American Journal on Addictions.