What to Expect During Wellbutrin Withdrawal
Wellbutrin, or bupropion in its generic form, is classified as a norepinephrine/dopamine-reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) and is frequently prescribed for conditions like major depressive disorder (MDD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and to assist individuals in quitting smoking.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that it may take between six to eight weeks for individuals to notice significant improvements in their depressive symptoms while taking Wellbutrin.
This gradual effect is due to the medication’s role in correcting chemical imbalances in the brain, specifically targeting neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play crucial roles in regulating mood, energy, and motivation.
As the body adapts to these changes, it can also take time to readjust when discontinuing the medication, potentially leading to Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms as dependence develops.
Understanding what to expect when stopping Wellbutrin can help you mentally and physically prepare for the changes your body may undergo. Withdrawal from Wellbutrin can be different for everyone, but common symptoms include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, fatigue, and even difficulty concentrating.
For some, these symptoms may be mild, while for others, they could be more intense and disruptive. While Wellbutrin withdrawal can be challenging, consulting with your healthcare provider or seeking professional help can help you navigate this process much more easily.
It is crucial to seek medical guidance when stopping Wellbutrin to ensure a safe tapering process and to manage any side effects effectively. In certain situations, a more structured treatment plan might be required, especially if you are dealing with intense signs of prescription drug abuse or a worsening of depression or anxiety.
What Are the Side Effects of Getting Off Wellbutrin?
Many individuals dealing with depression often find themselves on long-term prescriptions for antidepressants like Wellbutrin. While these medications can be highly effective in addressing mental health challenges, they also come with a range of potential side effects that might prompt some to consider discontinuing their use.
The conversation around how long one should remain on antidepressants is ongoing, with differing opinions on whether they should be taken indefinitely or if they are most beneficial during the period when individuals are learning healthier coping strategies through therapy and counseling.
Furthermore, VeryWellMind highlights that antidepressants can facilitate brain rewiring, enabling the formation of new connections that enhance the brain’s ability to manage stress and depressive episodes, suggesting that long-term use may not be necessary for everyone.
Due to the connection between depression and substance abuse, the decision to go off antidepressants should be considered thoughtfully and made with the support of your physician or therapist to make sure you’re not stopping prematurely and risking a recurrence of depression. It is important to recognize the possibility of Wellbutrin withdrawal when stopping your medication, which can include the following side effects:
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia, including trouble falling or staying asleep
- Unusual dreams or nightmares
- Tremors
- Restless legs
- Numbness and/or difficulty walking
- Mood swings
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Mania
- Depression
- Brain zaps, which are sensations resembling shocks in the head
The intensity of withdrawal symptoms from Wellbutrin can vary based on several factors, including the dosage and the duration of use. Generally, higher doses or longer treatment periods may lead to more severe or extended withdrawal experiences.
What Does Wellbutrin Actually Do to the Brain?
Wellbutrin operates in a unique way compared to most antidepressants. While many antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), primarily focus on increasing serotonin levels, Wellbutrin takes a different approach. According to GoodRx, it enhances the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine—two crucial brain chemicals that influence mood and various other functions.
By inhibiting the reabsorption of these neurotransmitters, Wellbutrin allows for greater availability in the brain, facilitating communication between nerve cells. Elevated levels of dopamine and norepinephrine can lead to improved mood, helping individuals feel more balanced and uplifted.
It’s important to note that Wellbutrin doesn’t provide immediate relief. Users may start to notice some positive changes within a few weeks, but it can take several months to experience the full benefits. Although the increase in dopamine and norepinephrine occurs relatively quickly, the brain needs time to adjust to these alterations and their effects on mood, energy, and motivation.
Over time, Wellbutrin may also induce changes in the brain’s structure and function, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity, which fosters the formation of new connections and strengthens certain neural pathways, ultimately enhancing mood and cognitive function.
What Do Wellbutrin Brain Zaps Feel Like?
Wellbutrin brain zaps, often referred to as “brain shakes,” “brain shocks,” or “brain shivers,” are peculiar sensations that can occur when discontinuing antidepressants.
Healthline notes that while the exact cause of these brain zaps remains unclear, they may be linked to sudden shifts in brain chemicals, particularly serotonin. Although they aren’t typically painful, these sensations can be quite uncomfortable and annoying. Many describe them as brief electric jolts in the head that may extend to other areas of the body.
These zaps can occur multiple times throughout the day and may even disrupt sleep. Other sensations reported by individuals who have stopped taking antidepressants include:
- A shivering sensation in the brain
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Disorientation
- Confusion
- Buzzing noises
Is Wellbutrin Bad for Your Heart?
Wellbutrin is generally considered safe for most people when taken as prescribed, but it can have effects on the heart. There is a minimal risk of negative cardiovascular events linked to the stimulating properties of Wellbutrin. The risk increases in those with heart disease, high blood pressure, previous heart attack, or irregular heartbeat.
While it’s not usually deemed harmful to the heart in healthy patients, it’s essential to keep an eye on any cardiovascular symptoms, particularly when beginning treatment. Some potential cardiovascular side effects of Wellbutrin include heart palpitations, chest discomfort, and fluctuations in blood pressure, which can include both hypotension and hypertension.
In rare instances, it may lead to cardiotoxicity, which can damage the heart muscle and result in serious conditions like heart failure, arrhythmias, myocarditis, or pericarditis. Therefore, anyone experiencing heart-related issues while taking Wellbutrin should consult their healthcare provider, who may adjust the dosage or suggest discontinuing the medication.
Get Help for Wellbutrin Withdrawal and Detox With WhiteSands Treatment
Wellbutrin is not among the most addictive prescription drugs, but experiencing Wellbutrin withdrawal can be challenging and overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it on your own.
Physical and emotional symptoms can vary from person to person and can be quite frightening at times. Fortunately, the dedicated professionals at WhiteSands Treatment are here to offer the highest level of care and guidance for anyone struggling with medication withdrawal, including Wellbutrin.
Many people mistakenly believe that drug and rehab facilities are solely for those battling substance abuse. In reality, our comprehensive detox programs are designed to also assist individuals in overcoming medication dependence, providing expert guidance on tapering off and managing withdrawal symptoms effectively.
At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer a safe and holistic approach that focuses not only on the physical aspects of withdrawal but also on your mental and emotional well-being. Our structured programs combine medical supervision, therapy, and support to ensure you have all the tools necessary to move forward toward a life free of antidepressant dependence.
Through dual diagnosis treatment, we address the underlying causes of depression and anxiety through evidence-based therapy and counseling, helping patients develop vital coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments to manage their mental health without medication. If you need help managing Wellbutrin withdrawal and mental health symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact WhiteSands Treatment at 877-855-3470 to learn more about our addiction treatment centers in Florida.
External Sources
- National Alliance on Mental Illness – Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
- VeryWellMind – Do I Have to Take Antidepressants Forever?
- GoodRx – How Does Wellbutrin Work? All About Its Mechanism of Action
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.
About the Author
Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.
