As with any drug that increases the levels of dopamine in the brain, people can become physically dependent and even addicted to Wellbutrin. As the body starts to develop tolerance, a higher dosage of the drug is needed in order to feel the same effect from the drug as previously. The body continues to develop tolerance and, with time, cannot function normally without the drug. The person experiences unpleasant withdrawal symptoms every time the effectiveness of the drug wears off because the body attempts to regulate itself without the drug. They may then feel compelled to take another dose of the drug just to relieve themselves of the symptoms. It is important to note that when taken orally, as prescribed, Wellbutrin is not addictive. It does not produce the euphoric ‘high’ that people who abuse other substances feel. However, if the pills are crushed and snorted, it can produce a ‘high’ feeling that is addictive.
People who take Wellbutrin without seeing an improvement in their depression symptoms may need to stop taking this medication and try something else. This can cause the user to experience withdrawal symptoms. This is especially true for people who have been taking the medication for a long time- they may need to decrease their dose to see if they can function without it, or they may need to switch medications, both of which can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.
Stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey is never a good idea. Instead, reach out to a mental health professional who can guide you on how to wean off Wellbutrin.
What is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin is a medication prescribed to help people struggling with depression and for people who are looking to quit smoking. It may also be used to treat other mental health conditions like anxiety, ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorder), bipolar disorder, and SAD (Seasonal-Affective Disorder). It is sold as an antidepressant under the brand name ‘Bupropion.’
Wellbutrin boosts the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which increases energy levels and helps to regulate mood. Dopamine is the hormone that causes pleasurable feelings and a sense of reward and well-being, putting you in a positive mood. Norepinephrine increases the heart rate and blood pressure, making a person feel more energetic.
The side effects of Wellbutrin are considered mild and manageable in comparison to other antidepressant medications. Possible side effects include constipation, headaches, insomnia, nausea, weight loss, and stomach pain.
Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms:
The Wellbutrin withdrawal side effects are usually mild but can nonetheless be difficult to deal with.
Below are some common withdrawal symptoms that people who are physically dependent on Wellbutrin may experience:
- Nausea/vomiting
- Tremors
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Mood swings
- Anxiety/ Depression
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Restless legs
- Agitation
- Headache
- Dizziness
The following severe, although unlikely, withdrawal symptoms require immediate professional care:
- Self-harm (any self-destructive behaviors to one's body)
- Suicidal ideation (Thinking about, talking about, or experimenting with suicide methods)
If you or your loved one are suffering from any of these symptoms while using Wellbutrin, you have likely become dependent on the drug.
How Long Do Wellbutrin Withdrawals Last?
Wellbutrin Withdrawal varies greatly in severity and duration for different people. Factors like the dosage taken, the duration the person was on the drug, the age and gender, and whether other substances were misused together with Wellbutrin can affect how severe the withdrawal symptoms are and how long they last.
Bupropion Withdrawal Timeline:
The half-life of Wellbutrin (the time it takes for the concentration of the drug in the body to reduce by half) is around 21 hours, somewhat shorter than other antidepressant drugs. This means that it takes around 21 hours for half of the drug’s amount to be flushed out of the system, causing the withdrawal symptoms to be felt just two days after the last dose.
Here’s a typical Wellbutrin taper schedule:
Days 1 to 3- Within the first three days of the last dose, it is vital to stay hydrated to help the body rid itself of the drug. It is expected to feel slight dizziness, mild nausea, and headaches, all of which can be relieved with over-the-counter medications and rest.
Days 4 to 7- At this point, more severe withdrawal symptoms are present, including anxiety/depression, body tremors, mood swings, and chills. These symptoms require more intense management methods that a mental health professional can guide you through.
Days 8 to 14- It is common to experience insomnia and restlessness during this period. There are natural supplements and other practices that can help a person fall asleep. Symptoms of depression may worsen, so consult with a mental health professional for assistance.
Days 15 to 28- During the third week of withdrawal, the symptoms should improve dramatically. If you experience any lingering anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, or other symptoms, they should be much less severe than previously. As mentioned, the withdrawal symptoms may last up to several months for some people, although all symptoms should gradually decrease until they disappear completely.
Treatment for Wellbutrin Withdrawal:
If you suspect you or your loved one may be addicted to, or dependent on, Wellbutrin, reach out for help before it gets any worse. Different treatment options can assist in helping you become sober while managing the withdrawal symptoms at the same time to make the recovery process easier. If you want to know what helps Wellbutrin withdrawal, consider the following options:
- Medical detox- A competent nurse or doctor can prescribe medication to lessen the withdrawal symptoms, allowing you to focus on quitting Wellbutrin without getting laid back by the unpleasant side effects.
- Inpatient treatment- At a reputable drug rehab center, they will offer a medical detox along with constant monitoring to ensure your well-being at all times. They also offer many one-on-one and group therapies, support groups, and other therapeutic modalities in a judgment-free, supportive environment.
- Outpatient treatment- This involves attending 12-step meetings, support groups, and one-on-one therapy regularly while still maintaining a regular routine. It is less intense than inpatient treatment but can work for people who don’t have a history of substance abuse and people who have an in-built supportive network at home.
Conclusion:
If you or your loved one is addicted to Wellbutrin or are experiencing withdrawal symptoms, don’t despair. Many people have been there before but found their path to recovery. You can achieve sobriety and find relief from the withdrawal symptoms with time, patience, determination, grit, and a supportive network of family and friends. Our staff at Avenues Recovery are experts in the field of addiction and can help you turn your life around. No one deserves to suffer from addiction. Reach out today to Avenues Recovery rehab center, where our professional team of addiction specialists will guide you to full recovery. Experience premier care, support and guidance at Avenues, and begin your journey to sobriety today.