*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Common Wellbutrin side effects include dizziness, headaches, and dry mouth. Serious side effects require medical attention such as a risk of suicidal thoughts, symptoms of mania, and allergic reactions.
One of the main reasons people stop taking a medication is unwanted side effects. If Wellbutrin side effects persist beyond the first few weeks, a prescriber can help you determine next steps. This may include a change in dosage, the timing, or switching to a different medication.
If you are considering Wellbutrin or want to discuss your current medication treatment with a provider, online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health are a good place to start. Their providers offer assessments and prescription consultation, and can answer any questions you have about Wellbutrin’s side effects.
Boxed Warning: Bupropion (Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XR) – Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people
Bupropion, the active ingredient in Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XR, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Bupropion can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with bupropion and any other medications before starting treatment.
Key Takeaways
Common Wellbutrin side effects may include headache, dry mouth, and nausea. These effects are often temporary, but some may be serious and require medical attention.
If Wellbutrin side effects persist longer than a few weeks, your provider can help you navigate next steps. Your provider may suggest a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or medication.
There are several ways to cope with Wellbutrin side effects, including small changes in daily habits, medication adjustments, and therapy.
If you are considering Wellbutrin or an alternative, start with an evaluation from a medical provider. Many online psychiatry platforms offer online assessments and medication management, such as Talkiatry, or Circle Medical.
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Common Wellbutrin Side Effects
Common Wellbutrin side effects can cause changes to your digestion, sleep, and sense of well-being. While these are often temporary, you may need to seek medical care for some side effects if they become severe or persistent. The following list is a combination of side effects for Wellbutrin XL (extended release) and Wellbutrin SR (sustained release).
Common side effects of Wellbutrin may include:*1,2
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Trouble sleeping
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Feeling anxious
*All medications, including Wellbutrin, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
Serious Wellbutrin Side Effects
Some side effects may be severe or persistent. Call your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of the following side effects.
Serious side effects of Wellbutrin that require immediate medical attention include:*1,2
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
- Seizures or convulsions
- Increased blood pressure
- Symptoms of mania or hypomania
- Serious psychiatric effects, such as psychosis, delusions, or paranoia
- Angle-closure glaucoma (severe eye condition)
- Severe allergic or hypersensitivity reactions
*All medications, including Wellbutrin, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
What Are the Risks & Warnings for Wellbutrin SR?
Suicidal Thoughts & Behaviors
Bupropion, the active ingredient in Wellbutrin SR, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Bupropion can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with bupropion and any other medications before starting treatment.
Triggering Seizures
Taking Wellbutrin SR can occasionally trigger seizures, especially in those with a seizure disorder. This risk is based on the dosage you take. If you have a seizure while take Wellbutrin SR, do not take another dose and tell your provider right away.
Triggering Manic Episodes
For some people, taking Wellbutrin SR can trigger a manic, mixed, or hypomanic episode. The risk appears to be increased in patients with bipolar disorder or who have risk factors for bipolar disorder.
Serious Psychiatric Effects During Smoking Cessation Treatment
Taking medication with bupropion for smoking cessation treatment carries risk of serious psychiatric effects. Wellbutrin SR is not approved for smoking cessation, but it has the same active ingredient, bupropion. Serious psychiatric effects may include changes in mood (including depression and mania), psychosis, hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, and other effects.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
For some people, taking Wellbutrin can result in elevated blood pressure and hypertension.
Potential Risks During Pregnancy
The potential risks of taking Wellbutrin SR during pregnancy are unclear and should be discussed with your provider.
Angle-closure Glaucoma (Serious Eye Condition)
For some people, taking Wellbutrin SR increases the risk of angle-closure glaucoma, a rare but serious eye condition requiring immediate medical care.
Not Recommended for Those With Eating Disorders
Due to an increased risk of seizures, Wellbutrin SR is not recommended for those with eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Allergic Reactions
As with any medication, Wellbutrin SR may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Some individuals may be more susceptible to experiencing allergic reactions to the drug. While allergic reactions are typically rare, they can be serious and require immediate attention.
Allergic reactions to Wellbutrin SR include:
- Skin rash or hives
- Itching or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat
- Severe dizziness or trouble breathing
- Severe skin rash, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Seek medical help immediately if you suffer any of these symptoms. Allergic responses can be severe and may need quick medical attention to stop future problems.
Drug Interactions
Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Wellbutrin can change how Wellbutrin works in your body or increase the risk of serious side effects. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your provider’s approval.
Substances you should avoid using while taking Wellbutrin SR include:
- Drugs broken down by the enzyme CYP2D6 (certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, beta blockers, anti-arrhythmia medications)
- Drugs that speed up the activity of the enzyme CYP3A4 (faster drug breakdown)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Digoxin (heart medication)
- Drugs that affect dopamine (levodopa, amantadine)
- Drugs that lower seizure threshold
- Alcohol
- May cause false positive test results for amphetamines
This is not a comprehensive list of medications that interact with Zoloft. Be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over the counter medications you take, as well as supplements, herbs, and teas.
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*Includes copayment, deductible, coinsurance, and $0 Visits. Excludes no shows. **On average. Actual appointment times vary by state and individual patient.
Important Things to Know About Taking Wellbutrin
It’s important to understand what to expect when starting Wellbutrin. Your prescriber will go over your dosage and how to take your medication properly. They will also talk with you about warnings, potential side effects, and what to do if they become a problem.
How Long Does It Take for Wellbutrin to Work?
It typically takes 4-8 weeks for Wellbutrin to become fully effective. Some may start to feel better after the first week or two. Each person’s body may respond differently, which can affect how long it takes to start working.
Can Wellbutrin Make You Feel Worse at First?
Yes, some taking Wellbutrin may experience uncomfortable side effects at first like a headache, dry mouth, or nausea.1,2 Wellbutrin can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in some people. If you experience worsened symptoms or side effects of any kind, contact your provider immediately.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take your Wellbutrin dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due soon, skip the missed one and take the next one. Never take two doses at once. Keep taking your medication consistently unless your prescriber gives you different instructions.1,2
Who Experiences Side Effects More?
Some may experience more side effects from Wellbutrin than others. While predicting who may be more sensitive to Wellbutrin is difficult, certain patients should be cautious.
Those Taking Other Medications
Combining Wellbutrin with some other medications can increase the risk of side effects and other complications. For example, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a type of antidepressant, and they can cause dangerously high blood pressure in some people.
Because Wellbutrin has a similar risk, taking these with Wellbutrin should be avoided. Wellbutrin can also make seizures more likely, making it possibly unsafe to take with other medications that have the same risk. Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbs you are taking so they can make sure Wellbutrin is safe for you.
Those With Certain Health Risks
Wellbutrin may not be safe for those with certain health risks or conditions. For example, young adults age up to age 24 have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors when taking Wellbutrin. Also, Wellbutrin may not be safe for those with a seizure disorder. Discussing your health history with your healthcare provider can help avoid these and other complications.
Those with a higher risk of side effects from Wellbutrin include anyone who:1,2
- Has a seizure disorder
- Has a current or prior diagnosis of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
- Is breastfeeding or plans to breastfeed
- Has high blood pressure or a history or heart problems
- Has had a head injury
- Has a tumor in their brain or spine
- Takes insulin for diabetes
- Has a history of bipolar disorder, symptoms of mania or hypomania
- Has a history or risk of developing glaucoma
- Has a history of liver problems
- Has a history of kidney problems
- Has had prior allergic reactions to bupropion
- Is abruptly stopping the use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or antiepileptic drugs
How to Cope With Common Wellbutrin Side Effects
There are ways to cope with the most common Wellbutrin side effects*. Many may go away on their own during the first few weeks. If side effects persist or worsen, tell your provider as soon as possible.
Headaches
A headache is the most commonly reported side effect of Wellbutrin, and less commonly, migraines. These often go away after the first few weeks as your body adjusts to Wellbutrin. In the meantime, follow good self care habits such as resting, being physically active, and drinking plenty of water. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication may help, but ask your provider if this is safe for you.
Digestive Symptoms
Some people experience digestive issues when taking Wellbutrin, such as nausea, constipation, and vomiting. To minimize these, follow meal timing recommendations for Wellbutrin. Also, drink plenty of water, eat smaller, more frequent meals, and avoid spicy foods.
Ginger or peppermint teas may help, but talk with your healthcare provider first. Prescription medication can interact with over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, and even tea.
Feeling Anxious
There are many ways to calm feelings of anxiety, so try a few simple methods you can do each day. Name your anxiety when it happens so you recognize what’s happening. Shift your focus to things you can control in the moment, rather than everything you’re uncertain about. Do some type of physical activity, such as taking a walk or light stretching, to reduce stress and release tension in your body.
*All medications, including Wellbutrin, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
More Ways to Manage Wellbutrin Side Effects
Here are more ways to cope with and reduce the impact of Wellbutrin side effects.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Regular sleep can improve your energy levels and keep your mood stable as you adjust to taking Wellbutrin. Try waking up and going to bed about the same time each day. A comfortable and relaxing sleep environment is also important. If Wellbutrin makes you feel drowsy, don’t drive or activities that require you to be fully alert.
Healthy Lifestyle Activities
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper rest can help your body handle medication adjustments more smoothly. These activities support your brain function, energy levels, and help you bounce back from side effects.
Follow a Daily Routine
Following your regular daily routine when starting Wellbutrin can keep life more predictable and less stressful. This can be especially helpful when your medication hasn’t started working yet.
Your medication can be more helpful to you when you take it as prescribed and at the same time each day. Once you fit it into your routine, you’re more likely to remember it and have a consistent daily dose.
Consider Therapy
Psychotherapy can help you cope with side effects in addition to your mental health symptoms or condition. Your healthcare provider or insurance company can connect you with an in-person therapist. Friends and family may also recommend a therapist to work with.
To find an online therapist, an online therapist directory is a great starting point. Many online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health, also offer therapy services.
Should I Stop Taking Wellbutrin If I Start Feeling Side Effects?
No, do not abruptly stop taking Wellbutrin because it could cause your mental health symptoms to return. If you notice side effects while taking Wellbutrin, report them to your provider right away. They can adjust your treatment or help you consider other options. If you need to stop taking Wellbutrin, they will provide a plan for gradually reducing your dose.
When Should I Call My Doctor About Wellbutrin Side Effects?
It’s common for people to stop taking medication because of side effects. Many side effects are manageable or may go away on their own. But some may continue until the medication is stopped. Side effects can happen even when you take your medication correctly.
Contact your provider as soon as possible if side effects last longer than a few weeks or worsen. Although rare, serious side effects can happen and may require emergency medical care. Some may even be life-threatening. If you notice any of the serious side effects listed above, seek medical care right away.
Additional Resources
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When Should I Seek an Alternative to Wellbutrin Due to Side Effects?
Wellbutrin’s initial side effects often get better after a few weeks. But if they persist or worsen, a provider can help you explore alternatives to Wellbutrin. While the potential benefits and risks are different for everyone, all types of antidepressants can help with depression symptoms.
Atypical antidepressants work differently than other medications to improve symptoms. Depending on why Wellbutrin was chosen as a treatment, other atypical antidepressants may be good alternatives to consider first.
SNRIs and SSRIs are often a first choice as an alternative for Wellbutrin. These newer antidepressants are known for their safety and effectiveness.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are older medications. They can still be effective but come with more side effects. They may be helpful for those who need to avoid or don’t respond well to other antidepressants.
How to Get a Prescription for Wellbutrin or Alternative Medications
To get a prescription for Wellbutrin or an alternative in person, start with an evaluation for your symptoms. Your primary care provider, who may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant can begin the process. And they may refer you to a psychiatrist or specialist for further assessment, including considering medication.
For an online prescription, you’ll also start with an evaluation from an online psychiatric provider. We have carefully reviewed platforms like Talkiatry or Circle Medical that can prescribe non-controlled substances, including antidepressants.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
Before starting Wellbutrin, have a conversation about potential side effects with your provider, psychiatrist, or therapist. They will discuss potential side effects and what to do if some persist or seem to get worse.
Online psychiatry services offer convenient treatment options for depression. You can get a mental health evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan. And many platforms allow you to change providers to find the best care for you.
Questions to ask your care team about Wellbutrin side effects may include:
- How long will it take for my body to get used to taking Wellbutrin?
- How quickly do side effects from Wellbutrin typically start?
- What do the first days of Wellbutrin side effects feel like?
- Is there a starting dose that reduces the risk of side effects, especially in the first week?
- When should I reach out if I notice side effects?
- If I can’t tolerate side effects, are there Wellbutrin alternatives to consider?
- What are some strategies for coping with side effects?
- What can I do if side effects don’t improve after a few weeks?
- Is it safe to skip or lower a dose to avoid the side effects?
- Can I switch antidepressants if side effects last longer or get worse?
- What can I do if I have serious side effects?
Prescriber’s Tips
Your prescriber will go over all the key details about your Wellbutrin prescription. They will explain how to take it, how to store it, and what to avoid when using it. They will also discuss possible side effects and what to do about them. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Wellbutrin.
- Take your medication as prescribed. Do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to.
- Take your medication at the same time of day every day. Keeping a consistent schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects. Your provider can guide you on the best timing based on your sleep patterns and how your body responds to Wellbutrin.
- Tell your provider right away if any of your mental health symptoms get worse. Antidepressants have a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children under age 18 and young adults to age 24.
- Ask your provider whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Wellbutrin.
- Tell your provider of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter treatments you take. Many over-the-counter products can interact with prescription medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Wellbutrin & What Is It Used to Treat?
How Does Wellbutrin Work?
How Does Wellbutrin Make You Feel During the First Week?
Wellbutrin starts building up in your body during the first week or two of taking Wellbutrin. This process may trigger side effects for some people. Some who take Wellbutrin may start noticing their symptoms improving in the first couple of weeks. But medication affects everyone differently and it may take longer for some than others.1,2
How Long Do Wellbutrin Side Effects Last?
For most people, common Wellbutrin side effects improve within the first few days or weeks. But side effects from Wellbutrin can be different for everyone. The amount of time your side effects last may be affected by how your body reacts, the dosage, and the length of your treatment.
Which Antidepressants Cause the Fewest Side Effects?
SNRIs and SSRIs are antidepressants that cause the fewest side effects. These are newer classes of antidepressants and are often preferred for their milder side effects.
Which Antidepressants Cause the Most Side Effects?
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tetracyclic antidepressants, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) tend to cause the most side effects. These are older classes of medication and are not first-line treatments for depression because they have more side effects than newer antidepressants.
Should I Stop Taking Wellbutrin If I Experience Side Effects?
Do not stop taking Wellbutrin unless you have been advised to do so by your provider. However, if you have a seizure while taking Wellbutrin, call your healthcare provider right away and do not take another dose.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Wellbutrin SR- bupropion hydrochloride tablet, film coated. (April 22, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Wellbutrin XL- bupropion hydrochloride tablet, extended release. (March 1, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary updates: Added “Key Takeaways” feature. Edited for clarity. Condensed “What is Wellbutrin?” and moved to FAQs. Revised and moved content from “Interactions With Wellbutrin (Bupropion”, “Allergic Reactions to Wellbutrin” sections with new “What Are the Warnings & Risks of Wellbutrin?” feature. Removed Rare Side Effects of Wellbutrin”, “Long-term Effects of Wellbutrin”, and “Withdrawal Symptoms from Wellbutrin”. Added new section “Important Things to Know About Taking Wellbutrin”. Revised “Who Experiences Side Effects More?”. Added new sections “How to Cope With Common Wellbutrin Side Effects”, added “More Ways to Manage Wellbutrin Side Effects”, “Should I Stop Taking Wellbutrin If I Start Feeling Side Effects?”, “When Should I Seek an Alternative to Wellbutrin Due to Side Effects?”, “How to Get a Prescription for Wellbutrin or Alternative Medications” and all included subsections. Retitled “Questions to Ask Your Health Team” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”. Replaced “Final Thoughts” with “Prescriber’s Tips” feature. Removed “For Further Reading”, Revised and moved FAQs to the end.
Author: Max Ruvinov, PharmD, MBA
Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD
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