Wellbutrin (Bupropion): Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More

What Is Wellbutrin (Bupropion)?

Wellbutrin is in an atypical class of antidepressants called norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs). Wellbutrin decreases the reuptake of two specific neurotransmitters in the central nervous system (norepinephrine and dopamine), allowing them to stay active in the brain for longer.

It is not considered the first line of treatment for depression. However, doctors will often prescribe it when SSRI or SNRI medication result in intolerable side effects, cannot be used with certain health conditions, or is ineffective. Wellbutrin comes in two different extended-release forms, Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR.

Wellbutrin is FDA-approved for use with disorders including:^1,2

• Depression
• Seasonal affective disorder (Wellbutrin XL only)

Wellbutrin is an off-label (non-FDA approved) medication for disorders including:

• Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Depressive episodes of bipolar disorder
• Smoking cessation

Wellbutrin is the brand name of the generic medication bupropion. When used to treat symptoms of depression, patients can typically expect improvements in the first or second week, with peak effectiveness after around two months of use.

Wellbutrin Doses & Delivery Methods

The dosages of Wellbutrin are dependent on the diagnosis. Prescribers will start at a lower dose and increase or decrease dosages, depending on the drug’s effectiveness or severity of side effects. Prescribers will often wait until two months have passed before adjusting the dosage, as Wellbutrin will often take that long to take full effect on the body.

Some typical dosages for Wellbutrin include:

• Immediate-release: formulations are available in 75 and 100mg (only available as generic bupropion)
• Extended-release (12-hour period): come in 100, 150, and 200mg
• Extended-release (24-hour period): come in 150, 350, and 450mg

Prescribers may choose different delivery methods based on the patient’s medical history and previous medication experiences. It is always recommended to take any medications as prescribed and speak to your physician before changing dosage or timing of ingestion.

Wellbutrin Warnings & Associated Risks

Wellbutrin is known for being a safe and effective treatment for depression. However, some patients should not take Wellbutrin, as they have a higher risk for health complications. It is crucial that you speak with your physician about your current medications and other medical conditions before starting Wellbutrin.

Health conditions to mention to your doctor before taking Wellbutrin include:

• Coronary artery disease
• Heart palpitations
• Hypertension
• Bulimia and Anorexia nervosa
• Recent use of other antidepressants or MAOIs
• Pregnancy
• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts 

Side Effects of Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin’s side effects are generally well tolerated by most patients. However, patients should be aware of all possible side effects to inform their doctors as they arise to prevent health conditions.

Common Wellbutrin side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Weight loss
• Symptoms of Anxiety
• Tremors

Severe side effects of Wellbutrin that require immediate attention may include:

• Seizures
• Heart palpitations
• Suicidal ideations
• Blurry vision

Allergic Reactions to Wellbutrin

Patients with a history of an allergy to bupropion should not take Wellbutrin. It is always possible for someone to experience an allergic reaction to a medication.

Severe allergic to Wellbutrin can include:

• Breathing problems
• Swelling of the mouth or throat
• Rash/hives
• Tightness in the chest or throat
• Wheezing
• Talking difficulties

Interactions With Wellbutrin

Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Wellbutrin can change how Wellbutrin works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Substances that interact with Wellbutrin include:

• SSRI, SNRI, and TCA antidepressants
• TCA medications
• Migraine drugs
• Codeine

What to Do If You Overdose

Wellbutrin overdose should be considered a health emergency and will require immediate medical attention. Patients and loved ones should call poison control or go to the nearest emergency room. Wellbutrin does not carry a risk or dependence, nor is it commonly abused. Still, overdose can happen when one increases the prescribed dosage when they feel the drug is not working well enough for them.

Symptoms of a Wellbutrin overdose may include:

• Seizures
• Agitation
• Increased heart rate

What If I Miss a Dose of Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin should be taken as prescribed and not stopped without prior discussion with a prescriber. If a dose of Wellbutrin is missed, take it as soon as it is remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose of medication, skip the missed dose and do not take two doses simultaneously.

Missing a dose of Wellbutrin will not cause significant harm to you, but it can cause antidepressant discontinuation syndrome and a relapse of depressive symptoms. Discontinuation syndrome can cause nausea, headache, and vitals irregularity.

It is common for people to want to stop using antidepressants when they feel better, but taking the dose every day is important to treat the indicated condition. If you want to quit, your physician will likely give you a tapering dose so you do not feel the effects of withdrawal from Wellbutrin.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team

Before starting medication, it is important to share the decision-making process with your provider. It is important to discuss the effects of Wellbutrin and its effects on other medications you may be taking. Having an open and honest discussion with your physician about your depression and treatment plan will yield the highest chance of recovery.

11 questions to ask your care team about before taking Wellbutrin include:

1. Is it safe to take Wellbutrin with my other medications?
2. Will Wellbutrin or bupropion be covered by my insurance?
3. Does my medical history increase my risk of side effects?
4. How long can I expect side effects to last?
5. What side effects should I seek immediate medical attention for?
6. How often should I see you for checkups while taking Wellbutrin
7. Should I let my therapist know I am taking this medication?
8. What should I do if I want to stop taking Wellbutrin?
9. What is the dosage of Wellbutrin?
10. How often should I take the medication?
11. How soon should I see improvement, and what happens if I do not?
12. Is it safe to take Wellbutrin and Adderall together?

Final Thoughts

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an atypical antidepressant approved for use in individuals with major depressive disorder. It is commonly used in conjunction with therapy and can be an alternative to other common types of SSRIs and SNRIs. It is not a controlled substance and is not addictive. Wellbutrin can cause severe side effects and should be used with caution. It is important to talk to your physician to see if Wellbutrin is a good option for you.