Depression, smoking addiction, fatigue, are some of the symptoms for which Wellbutrin© or the equivalent Zyban© versions of bupropion are prescribed. Did you know such symptoms can actually be the result of a number of complex issues such as hormonal imbalances, vitamin and/or mineral deficiencies, dietary failings, lifestyle factors, food allergies, adrenal fatigue, neurotoxic accumulations like heavy metals, a dysfunctional gut microbiome, and other root causes?25,29
Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms (AKA bupropion) can range from mild to moderate or be severe enough to require hospitalization. Wellbutrin is a stimulating drug and the effects look a lot like the reactions of coming off any other stimulant drug. Be cautious when stopping this medication. Gradual tapering can help to avoid otherwise hard-to-tolerate discomforts as well as life-threatening or health-compromising risks. More information on the risks and phenomena of Wellbutrin withdrawal can be found below.
Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a popular antidepressant medication. It is often prescribed to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. Wellbutrin can also be used to help people quit smoking.
While Wellbutrin can be very effective, some people may eventually want to stop taking it. A common question many people have is: can you quit Wellbutrin cold turkey?
The short answer is no, it is not recommended to stop Wellbutrin suddenly. This article provides an overview of how to safely stop taking Wellbutrin and why quitting cold turkey can be problematic.
How Wellbutrin Works
Before getting into how to stop Wellbutrin it helps to understand what Wellbutrin is and how it works.
Wellbutrin, also known by the generic name bupropion, is classified as an antidepressant However, it is a unique type of antidepressant known as a dopamine-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (DNRI)
Most other antidepressants like Zoloft and Prozac are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Wellbutrin works differently by blocking the reabsorption of dopamine and norepinephrine. This leaves more of these neurotransmitters available in the brain to boost mood.
Wellbutrin is often preferred over SSRIs because it has a lower risk of some side effects like weight gain, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction
Why Stopping Abruptly Is Not Advised
When you take any antidepressant regularly such as Wellbutrin, your brain chemistry starts to change and adapt to the medication. Stopping suddenly can cause a sort of “shock” to the system and result in withdrawal symptoms.
Some possible withdrawal side effects from stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey include:
- Anxiety, irritability, agitation
- Depression getting worse
- Suicidal thoughts
- Inability to sleep
- Headaches, body aches
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Dizziness, tremors
These unpleasant effects can occur within just a few days of abruptly stopping Wellbutrin. Some symptoms may be mistaken for a return of depression.
Sudden withdrawal can also trigger cravings for nicotine in people who used Wellbutrin to quit smoking. This puts them at higher risk of relapse.
How to Safely Stop Taking Wellbutrin
The safest way to stop taking Wellbutrin is to slowly taper off under the supervision of your doctor. Quitting cold turkey is not advised.
Your doctor can work with you to create a tapering schedule to gradually reduce your dosage over a period of weeks. This gives your body and brain more time to readjust and minimizes withdrawal symptoms.
The exact schedule for tapering will vary based on factors like:
- How long you’ve been taking Wellbutrin
- Your current dosage
- Any side effects that occur during the taper process
For example, someone who has taken 300 mg of Wellbutrin daily may follow a schedule like:
- Week 1: 300 mg daily
- Week 2: 300 mg every other day
- Week 3: 150 mg daily
- Week 4: 150 mg every other day
- Week 5: Stop
However, for some people, tapering may need to occur over a longer duration depending on individual circumstances.
During the tapering period, it’s important to monitor yourself closely for potential withdrawal symptoms. Keep your doctor informed about how you are feeling throughout the process.
Your doctor may adjust your tapering schedule if withdrawal symptoms become bothersome. Some people may need to go even slower, while others may be able to taper quicker.
Lifestyle Changes and Alternative Treatments
Making certain lifestyle changes and exploring alternative treatments can also help ease the transition when quitting Wellbutrin. Some options to consider include:
Exercise: Physical activity naturally boosts dopamine, norepinephrine, and other feel-good brain chemicals. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise most days.
Healthy diet: Eating more omega-3 fatty acids found in foods like salmon may help improve mood. Avoid inflammatory foods that can worsen depression.
Sunlight exposure: Getting sufficient sunlight can help if you have seasonal affective disorder. Light therapy may also be an option.
Meditation and yoga: These relaxing mind-body practices reduce anxiety and stress. Try meditating for 30 minutes daily.
Counseling and therapy: Talk therapy provides tools to better manage issues like depression without medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy is especially helpful.
Support group: Having a strong support system makes withdrawing from Wellbutrin easier. Consider joining a support group to connect with others.
Good sleep habits: Get on a regular sleep schedule and practice good sleep hygiene for optimal rest.
Signs Your Depression Is Returning
Some depression symptoms may return after stopping Wellbutrin, despite careful tapering. Signs that your depression is coming back and you should contact your doctor include:
- Persistently sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Irritability, restlessness, agitation
- Loss of interest in activities; feeling fatigued
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Appetite and weight changes
- Trouble concentrating, making decisions
- Bodily aches and pains, headaches
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
If your depression worsens and lasts more than two weeks after quitting Wellbutrin, your doctor may recommend restarting the medication or trying an alternative.
Never try to tough it out alone. Reach out for professional help if needed.
While Wellbutrin tends to cause less severe withdrawal effects compared to some other antidepressants, quitting cold turkey is still not advised. It is best to gradually taper off Wellbutrin over a period of weeks to months under medical supervision. This will significantly reduce the risk of experiencing uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
Implementing positive lifestyle changes, exploring therapy options, and having social support can also make withdrawing from Wellbutrin much smoother. Listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to seek medical guidance if you have any concerns when stopping Wellbutrin.
Wellbutrin (bupropion) Alternative Names and Slang
Brand names in the US include Aplenzin©, Buproban©, ForfivoXL©, Wellbutrin SR©, Wellbutrin XL©, Zyban©, Zyban Advantage Pack©, and Budeprion XL©. There are dozens of other brand names for other countries.
Recently, a novel compound containing bupropion was FDA-approved in 2022 called Auvelity©. This one combines bupropion and dextromethorphan. Dextromethorphan is the main ingredient in many cough suppressants. Auvelity causes the same side effects as other versions of bupropion, including seizures, mania, psychosis, suicidality, and others. The label instructs Auvelity extended-release tablets to be taken twice daily for major depressive disorder. Information from the label tells us its effects come on more quickly but also wear off more quickly over the day than straight bupropion. Of some concern, the instructions simply state that if psychosis or other psychiatric symptoms develop, stop taking the drug.35,36
Navigating Wellbutrin Withdrawal Using Effective Strategies for Relief
As is well-established, Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms are the same as for other versions or brand names for the same drug. In medical terms, Wellbutrin is a second-generation NDRI antidepressant medication for the treatment of depressive disorders and is FDA-approved under the name “Zyban” for smoking cessation. It is thought that Wellbutrin inhibits the reuptake of both norepinephrine, (the “N”), and dopamine, (the “D”), according to research by Stahl et al, published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.16 First-generation antidepressants (TCAs such as amitriptyline and MOAIs such as Eutonyl) have largely fallen out of popularity due to their significant burden of adverse side effects including suicides, seizures, and dangerous interactions with other drugs, as well as many foods and beverages common to the Western diet.2
Tragically, second-generation antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and other bupropion-based drugs have not panned out to be as risk-free as drug manufacturers had initially hoped. For example, as stated on the package insert, Wellbutrin showed an increased risk of completed suicide and suicidal attempts, and suicidal thoughts in those under the age of 25 both during clinical trials and after discontinuation.5
The stimulant effects of Wellbutrin were overlooked in early research, but researchers have more closely studied these in recent years. Published papers have shown that bupropion’s molecular profile is similar to that of amphetamines and cocaine.
For instance, studies from recent decades have demonstrated a likely increase in dopamine availability after ingesting Wellbutrin, which is thought associated with the addictiveness of the drug.1,13,16,33
Bringing the neurochemistry of the body and brain back into natural, healthy balance is part of recovery from Wellbutrin withdrawal at Alternative to Meds Center.
A growing body of research clarifies why Wellbutrin has developed a significant street presence for attaining the “high,” described as similar to cocaine, that is produced by crushing and snorting or injecting the drug.12,33 Other side effects and withdrawal adverse effects are featured below along with some of the most commonly asked questions about the antidepressant Wellbutrin.
Symptoms of Wellbutrin Withdrawals
FAQ
What happens if you stop Wellbutrin suddenly?
As is with most antidepressants, sudden stoppage of Wellbutrin leads to a rise in irritability and depression, and in some cases, it presents with severe joint aches as well. This is known as Wellbutrin withdrawal. The good news is that Wellbutrin does not cause extreme addiction.
Do I need to taper off 150 mg Wellbutrin?
- Your doctor will create a specific tapering plan for you
- The plan may involve slowly decreasing your dose over several weeks
- The plan may depend on how long you’ve been taking Wellbutrin, your dose, and what symptoms you’re experiencing
What is the best way to stop taking bupropion?
Do not stop taking Wellbutrin without first speaking to your doctor. If you need to stop taking Wellbutrin, follow your doctor’s instructions on how to safely stop taking it. They may slowly lower your dose over 6 to 8 weeks to prevent withdrawal symptoms. This is called tapering down.
Does Wellbutrin need to be weaned off?
A gradual tapering process, as recommended by a healthcare provider, can help minimize the risk of worsening depression during Wellbutrin discontinuation.Jan 8, 2024