Wellbutrin is a drug that affects the balance of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) in your brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. It is used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that often occurs in the winter. It is also used to help people quit smoking. Wellbutrin overdose can occur if you exceed your prescribed dosage.
An overdose of Wellbutrin can be serious and may require immediate medical attention.
Using Wellbutrin without a prescription or in ways not prescribed by a doctor can be dangerous and may worsen existing mental health conditions. If you or someone you know struggles with Wellbutrin abuse, reach out to our experts at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your road to recovery.
Can You Overdose on Wellbutrin?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on Wellbutrin. Taking too much Wellbutrin can lead to serious health complications, including seizures, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and even death. It is important to take Wellbutrin exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected. It is also a good idea to store the medication in a safe place to prevent accidental overdose, especially in households with children, special needs individuals or pets.
Can You Overdose on Wellbutrin 300 mg?
Since 300 mg of Wellbutrin is a typical daily dosage, it is unlikely to overdose on such an amount. The common overdose amount is 450 mg, although for some people that is also a safe dosage. A safe dosage depends on a person’s weight, metabolism and other pre-existing disorders. If you follow your doctor’s advice and prescribed dosage, you are less likely to overdose.
What Are Some Wellbutrin Overdose Symptoms?
Symptoms of a Wellbutrin overdose may include:
Seizures: Seizures are one of the most serious symptoms of a Wellbutrin overdose. Wellbutrin lowers the seizure threshold, (i.e. increases risk seizures) especially at higher doses. Overdosing on Wellbutrin can significantly increase this risk, leading to seizures that may be severe and require medical intervention.
Hallucinations: Overdosing on Wellbutrin can cause hallucinations, which are experiences that seem real but are created by the mind. These hallucinations can involve seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not actually present. Hallucinations can be distressing and may indicate a severe overdose.
Fast Heart Rate: An overdose of Wellbutrin can lead to elevated heart rate (tachycardia.) This can be dangerous for people with heart conditions, as it can increase the risk of other heart problems like an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) or heart failure.
High Blood Pressure: Overdosing on Wellbutrin can also cause high blood pressure. This can strain the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart problems. If not dealt with right away, it can lead to organ damage and other serious health issues.
Loss of Consciousness: In severe cases of Wellbutrin overdose, loss of consciousness can occur. This can be life-threatening, and requires immediate medical attention.
Death: In extreme cases, a Wellbutrin overdose can be deadly. Severe seizures, cardiovascular complications, or other serious effects of the overdose can lead to death if not treated promptly and effectively.
In general, the intensity of symptoms can differ depending on the amount of Wellbutrin taken, and individual factors like overall health and tolerance to the medication. If you suspect a Wellbutrin overdose, call 911 right away.
Causes of a Wellbutrin Overdose
Here are some common causes of a Wellbutrin overdose:
Accidental Ingestion: Accidentally taking more Wellbutrin than prescribed, such as double dosing or taking extra pills, can lead to an overdose. This can happen due to confusion about dosing instructions or forgetting that a dose has already been taken.
Intentional Misuse or Abuse: Some people may intentionally misuse or abuse Wellbutrin in an attempt to get high or to self-medicate for depression or other mental health issues. This can involve taking larger doses than prescribed or crushing and snorting the medication to enhance its effects.
Drug Interactions: Certain medications can interact with Wellbutrin and increase the risk of an overdose. For example, taking Wellbutrin with other medications that also lower the seizure threshold, such as certain antidepressants or antipsychotics, can increase the risk of seizures and other serious side effects.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of a Wellbutrin overdose. For example, people with a history of seizures or eating disorders may be more susceptible to the effects of Wellbutrin overdose.
Alcohol or Substance Use: Combining Wellbutrin with alcohol or other substances can make an overdose more likely. Alcohol can strengthen the effects of Wellbutrin and increase the risk of seizures and other serious side effects.
Suicidal Intent: In some cases, individuals may intentionally overdose on Wellbutrin as a means of self-harm or suicide. This is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate intervention.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Wellbutrin Overdose?
Seizures are a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of a Wellbutrin overdose. The risk of seizures is dose-dependent and increases at higher doses. Overdosing on Wellbutrin can cause increased agitation, confusion, and disorientation. These symptoms may be more pronounced in overdose situations.
Some people may experience hallucinations, which involve seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there. Hallucinations can be distressing and may indicate a severe overdose. An overdose of Wellbutrin can lead to elevated heart rate, which can be dangerous, especially in individuals with preexisting heart conditions.
Overdosing on Wellbutrin can also cause high blood pressure. High blood pressure can strain the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Some people may experience nausea and vomiting as a result of a Wellbutrin overdose.
A Wellbutrin overdose can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, which may be a sign of cardiovascular effects. In severe cases of Wellbutrin overdose, loss of consciousness can occur. This may result from the effects of the medication on the central nervous system.
In extreme cases, a Wellbutrin overdose can lead to a coma. In very rare cases, a severe Wellbutrin overdose can be deadly. This is more likely to happen in cases of extremely high doses or when the overdose is not promptly treated.
What Are Some Wellbutrin Overdose Side Effects?
Some Wellbutrin overdose side effects include:
- Seizures
- Agitation or restlessness
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
- Rapid heart rate
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tremors (shaking)
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Fainting
How Many Wellbutrin is Fatal?
The number of Wellbutrin (bupropion) pills that can be fatal varies depending on factors such as the individual's weight, age, overall health, and whether they have taken other medications or substances along with Wellbutrin.
Wellbutrin overdose can be dangerous and potentially fatal, especially at higher doses. For example, ingesting a large number of Wellbutrin XL 300 mg tablets could be life-threatening. However, there is no specific number of pills that is universally considered fatal, as this can vary widely among individuals.
If you or someone you know may have taken too much Wellbutrin, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center for assistance. Prompt treatment can help prevent serious complications.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Wellbutrin Overdose?
Overdosing on Wellbutrin can increase the risk of seizures, and in some cases, these seizures can lead to long-term neurological effects. In severe cases, a Wellbutrin overdose can lead to organ damage, particularly to the kidneys, liver, and heart.
Some people may experience long-term cognitive effects, such as memory problems or difficulties with concentration and attention.
Overdosing on Wellbutrin can also impact emotional well-being, potentially leading to mood swings, depression, or anxiety. Depending on the extent of the overdose and any resulting complications, individuals may experience challenges in daily functioning and overall quality of life.
How to Treat Wellbutrin Overdose
Treating a Wellbutrin (bupropion) overdose typically involves supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. If the overdose is recent (within 1-2 hours) and the person is conscious, activated charcoal may be given to help absorb the medication and reduce its absorption into the bloodstream. Continuous monitoring of vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels is important to detect and manage any complications.
Seizures are a potential complication of Wellbutrin overdose. Medications such as benzodiazepines may be given to help control seizures if they occur. This may include intravenous fluids to maintain hydration, and medications to manage symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, or rapid heart rate.
If the overdose is severe, stomach pumping may be considered to remove the medication from the stomach. Long-term monitoring in a healthcare setting may be necessary to watch for and manage any potential complications of the overdose.
It's important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a Wellbutrin overdose. Do not attempt to treat an overdose at home. Prompt medical treatment is essential to prevent serious complications and improve outcomes.
Help For a Wellbutrin Addiction
Talk to a Healthcare Provider: Discuss your concerns with a healthcare provider who can help you safely taper off Wellbutrin and provide guidance on managing withdrawal symptoms.
Consider Therapy: Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in addressing the underlying reasons for addiction and developing healthy coping strategies.
Support Groups: Joining a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide peer support and encouragement throughout the recovery process.
Medication Management: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage withdrawal symptoms or address co-occurring mental health conditions.
Lifestyle Changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques, can support your recovery.
Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that may lead to substance use, such as certain people, places, or situations.
Stay Connected: Maintain a strong support network of family and friends who can offer encouragement and understanding.
Prevent a Wellbutrin Overdose With Addiction Treatment At Avenues Recovery
If you or a loved one struggle with Wellbutrin abuse, reach out to our experts at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your road to recovery. Our incredible staff have helped over 30,000 people break free of their addictions and build successful futures. If you would like to begin your journey to sobriety, contact us today. Discover a warm and vibrant recovery community that will be with you every step of the way.