*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.
Wellbutrin (bupropion) can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. It can help with ADHD by influencing certain chemicals in the brain, namely norepinephrine and dopamine, which play a role in attention and impulsive control. While it is not the first-line treatment for ADHD, some individuals may find it effective when other options have not provided benefit.
If you’re considering Wellbutrin as treatment for anxiety, online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health can connect you with a provider quickly. They offer assessments and can provide a prescription if they determine Wellbutrin or another medication may help your symptoms.
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.
What Is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a medication most often used for the treatment of depression and is part of the drug class of norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors. It works by increasing certain chemicals in the brain, particularly norepinephrine and dopamine, which play major roles in regulating mood and emotions.1,2 By increasing the levels of these chemicals, Wellbutrin can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall well-being.
Wellbutrin is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and nicotine addiction. FDA approval means that a medication has undergone a rigorous evaluation by the FDA and is deemed effective and safe for specific medical conditions. However, some medications are also used off-label. This means it is being used for a condition not approved by the FDA. A prescriber will choose to do this if they feel that the medication may still benefit someone. Off-label uses of Wellbutrin include treatment of attention-deficit disorder (ADHD), bipolar depression, and sexual dysfunction.3
Get Personalized, Affordable ADHD Treatment
The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta.
How Does Wellbutrin Work for ADHD?
Wellbutrin is likely beneficial for ADHD because it affects certain brain chemicals that play a role in focus, attention, and impulse control. It increases the level of norepinephrine and dopamine, which help regulate these functions. By doing this, Wellbutrin can potentially enhance concentration and reduce impulsivity. Although Wellbutrin is not typically used first for the treatment of ADHD, it may be considered when other medications have been ineffective or if there are concerns about side effects from other medications.
How Effective Is Wellbutrin for ADHD?
The effectiveness of Wellbutrin in treating ADHD can vary widely among individuals.4 It is important to understand that Wellbutrin is not considered a first-line medication for ADHD and may not be as effective as other medication options. However, in cases where these medications are not well-tolerated or have not been effective, Wellbutrin can be an option to consider.
How Long Does it Take for Wellbutrin for ADHD to Work?
The effects of Wellbutrin are typically not immediate and often take 2-4 weeks to notice.3 If ADHD symptoms do not seem to improve after 6-8 weeks, the dosage may need to be increased, or alternative medications may need to be considered.
Is Wellbutrin Better Than Adderall for ADHD?
Wellbutrin and Adderall are both used in the management of ADHD, but they have distinct differences. Adderall is a stimulant medication that acts quickly and is one of the first-line treatments for ADHD. It primarily works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, leading to improved focus and reduced hyperactivity.
While Wellbutrin also affectss norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, it is not a stimulant medication and influences these chemicals differently. Wellbutrin may be preferred when there are concerns about abuse potential or the side effects of stimulant medications.
Does Wellbutrin Give You Energy Like Adderall?
Wellbutrin and Adderal work differently, and their effects on energy levels are distinct. Adderall, a stimulant, can often provide a sense of increased energy and alertness. Wellbutrin, on the other hand, is not typically associated with a pronounced energy boost. Some individuals may experience increased alertness, but it generally doesn’t produce the same intense increase in energy as Adderall.
Wellbutrin Dosage for ADHD
The dosage of Wellbutrin for ADHD, when used off-label, can vary widely depending on several factors. These factors may include an individual’s age, weight, medical history, medication tolerance, and whether they are taking other medications. Since Wellbutrin is not FDA-approved for ADHD, there is no universal standard dosage for this condition. However, healthcare providers often start with a low dose and gradually increase it based on the individual’s response. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider who can monitor the medication effects and make changes as needed.
How to Take Wellbutrin for ADHD
Wellbutrin should taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Wellbutrin typically comes in regular tablets or sustained/extended-release tablets. Regular tablets are typically taken 3-4 times per day. Sustained-release tablets are usually taken twice per day. Extended-release tablets are taken once per day. The tablets should be swallowed whole and taken around the same time every day. Wellbutrin can be taken with food if the medication causes an upset stomach.5
What Happens If I Miss a Dose of Wellbutrin?
If you forget to take a dose, the dose should be skipped, and you should continue your regular dosing schedule. Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Get Personalized, Affordable ADHD Treatment
The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta.
Side Effects of Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin may cause a range of side effects due to its impact on chemicals in the brain and body. Most side effects are mild and will resolve over time. This is often due to the body adjusting to the new medication. However, some side effects can be persistent or severe, requiring changes to the medication.
Common Side Effects of Wellbutrin
Most of the common side effects of Wellbutrin are mild and do not typically require medical intervention. Many of the common side effects will subside over time as the body adjusts to the medication. However, it is important to communicate any concerns or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider.
Common side effects of Wellbutrin include:1,2,5
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
*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.
Serious Side Effects of Wellbutrin
Serious side effects associated with Wellbutrin may include allergic reactions, severe mood changes, and severe impacts on the brain and heart. While these side effects are rare, it is important to be aware of them and to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
Serious side effects of Wellbutrin may include:1,2,5
- Seizures
- Irregular heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Swelling of the lips, face, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing
*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.
Wellbutrin Warnings & Precautions
There are a few warnings and precautions to be aware of when taking Wellbutrin. These warnings, listed below, include what to know for certain individuals taking the medication. If the warnings listed occur, immediate medical attention may be necessary to address them.
Precautions for taking Wellbutrin address:1,2
- Taking Wellbutrin during pregnancy or breastfeeding: The risks of taking Wellbutrin during pregnancy have not been well studied, but there is no evidence of indicating harm to a developing fetus. The decision to continue to stop Wellbutrin during pregnancy should be made in conjunction with your healthcare provider.
- Taking Wellbutrin when breastfeeding: Wellbutrin is excreted in breast milk at a low level and is not expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants.6 However, this has not been well studied, and there may be a risk of causing seizures in breastfed infants. The decision to continue breastfeeding while on Wellbutrin should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
- Suicidal ideation: When starting antidepressants, some individuals may experience worsening of their depression or develop suicidal thoughts/behaviors. It is necessary to know how to spot the warning signs of suicide due to this potential risk.
- Psychiatric changes: Some individuals taking Wellbutrin have reported severe changes in mood. These changes may include depression, mania, psychosis, hallucinations, and more.
- Seizures: Wellbutrin can cause seizures, especially in individuals who have a seizure disorder.
- Hypertension: Wellbutrin can increase blood pressure, which should be monitored closely during treatment.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: Individuals with a history of glaucoma may experience a sudden worsening of this condition when taking Wellbutrin.
- Allergic reactions: Severe allergic reactions have occurred in individuals taking Wellbutrin. These symptoms may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the lips, mouth, or throat.
Interactions With Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin may interact with other medications, substances, and herbs, potentially leading to harmful side effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all the drugs and supplements you are taking. Wellbutrin may interact with certain medications to treat psychiatric conditions, high blood pressure, or seizures. It also interacts with substances such as alcohol.
7 substances you should avoid while taking Wellbutrin include:1,2,3
- Blood thinners: Ticlopidine and clopidogrel, two medications used to prevent blood clotting, may impact the effectiveness of Wellbutrin.
- Seizure medications: Seizure medications such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin may decrease the effects of Wellbutrin and may require a dose increase.
- HIV medications: Medications used to treat HIV, such as ritonavir, lopinavir, and efavirenz, can decrease the effects of Wellbutrin and may require a dose increase.
- Psychiatric medications: Many psychiatric medications may be less effective when taken with Wellbutrin. These medications include antidepressants and antipsychotics.
- Heart medications: Some heart medications, including beta-blockers and antiarrhythmics, may be less effective if taken with Wellbutrin.
- Anti-Parkinson medications: Drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease may have an increased risk of side effects if taken with Wellbutrin.
- Alcohol: Taking Wellbutrin with alcohol can increase the risk and severity of side effects.
Alternative Treatments for ADHD
When treating ADHD, it’s important to consider the broad range of treatment options. There are many other medications to consider, including both traditional stimulant medications and non-stimulant medications. A healthcare provider will be able to provide you with all of the medication options for ADHD treatment to help you determine the best medication for you.
Other treatment options include non-pharmacological approaches. This may include different types of therapy, such as CBT for ADHD. These types of therapy can help enhance executive functioning, time management, and problem-solving skills. Online group therapy or support groups are also a beneficial way to address ADHD.
Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Wellbutrin
Individuals considering Wellbutrin for the treatment of ADHD should discuss this with their medical team, including their healthcare provider, psychiatrist, and therapist. It is important to ask if Wellbutrin is a good option for you, as well as discuss any questions about the risks and benefits of the medication. If you do not have a healthcare provider or need to find a new psychiatrist, online psychiatry services are a good option to consider. These services can provide mental health treatments and consultations with a qualified healthcare professional.
Questions to ask your care team about Wellbutrin include:
- How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Wellbutrin?
- Am I at risk for more serious symptoms if I am already taking medication treatments for other mental health disorders?
- What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
- Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
- Are there any potential interactions with the medications and supplements I am currently taking?
- What are the potential side effects, and how can they be managed?
- Is Wellbutrin a good option for me based on my medical history?
- Are there any specific lifestyle changes or strategies to consider to decrease the risk of side effects?
- How often should I follow up to monitor my progress on Wellbutrin?
In My Experience
In my experience, Wellbutrin can be used off-label to treat ADHD symptoms effectively. I have seen the positive impacts it can have on patients and their well-being. As Wellbutrin is primarily used for depression, it can be a good option for individuals who have both ADHD and depression. I always recommend starting by talking with your healthcare provider to explore your options.
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
Personalized, Affordable ADHD Treatment
Klarity Health – The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta. Visit Klarity Health
Online Psychiatry
Circle Medical – ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment. Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same & next day appointments available. Visit Circle Medical
Talkiatry – Get help from a real doctor who takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with expert psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Free Assessment
ADHD Medication Management + Therapy
Brightside Health – Different people experience ADHD in different ways. That’s why Brightside Health develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1-on-1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. No controlled substances. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start your free assessment.
ADHD Management Tool
Inflow App – is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain and build lifelong skills. Free Trial
Do you think you have ADHD?
Answer an evidence-based questionnaire for Circles Medical to learn more. Takes 45 seconds.
Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
