From the Guidelines
Yes, you can experience withdrawal symptoms when stopping Wellbutrin (bupropion), as evidenced by a high-quality study published in The Lancet Psychiatry in 2019 1. Withdrawal symptoms may include irritability, anxiety, agitation, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, and in some cases, depressive symptoms. These symptoms typically begin within a few days after stopping the medication and can last for several weeks. The severity of withdrawal depends on factors like how long you've been taking the medication, your dosage, and individual physiology. To minimize withdrawal effects, it's recommended to gradually taper off Wellbutrin under medical supervision rather than stopping abruptly. A typical tapering schedule might involve reducing your dose by small amounts every 1-2 weeks, but this should be personalized by your healthcare provider. Withdrawal occurs because your brain has adapted to the medication's effects on neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, and needs time to readjust when the medication is removed. If you're considering stopping Wellbutrin, always consult with your healthcare provider first to develop an appropriate discontinuation plan. Some key points to consider when stopping Wellbutrin include:
- Gradual tapering to minimize withdrawal symptoms
- Medical supervision to monitor for any adverse effects
- Personalized tapering schedule based on individual factors
- Potential for withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and insomnia
- Importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before stopping the medication. Additionally, a study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings in 2021 1 provides guidance on the preoperative management of opioid and nonopioid analgesics, but does not specifically address Wellbutrin withdrawal. However, it emphasizes the importance of individualized patient care and careful consideration of medication management in the perioperative period. In the context of Wellbutrin withdrawal, this highlights the need for personalized tapering schedules and close medical supervision. Overall, the evidence suggests that Wellbutrin withdrawal is a potential risk, and careful management is necessary to minimize adverse effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
Although a causal link between the emergence of such symptoms and either the worsening of depression and/or the emergence of suicidal impulses has not been established, there is concern that such symptoms may represent precursors to emerging suicidality In many postmarketing cases, resolution of symptoms after discontinuation of bupropion was reported
The FDA drug label does mention symptoms that may occur when discontinuing the medication, but it does not directly address the question of withdrawal symptoms from Wellbutrin. However, it can be inferred that withdrawal symptoms may occur when stopping the medication, as some symptoms have been reported to resolve after discontinuation.
- Key symptoms that may be related to withdrawal include anxiety, agitation, and changes in mood. However, the label does not provide clear information on the likelihood or severity of withdrawal symptoms from Wellbutrin 2.
From the Research
Withdrawal Symptoms from Wellbutrin
- Withdrawal symptoms associated with the cessation of Wellbutrin (bupropion) therapy have been reported, including irritable mood, anxiety, sleeplessness, headache, and generalized aches and pains 3.
- A slow taper for antidepressant discontinuation is recommended, along with vigilance for withdrawal symptoms and educating patients to the benefits of compliance 3.
Effects of Bupropion on Nicotine Withdrawal
- Bupropion has been shown to ameliorate some nicotine withdrawal symptoms, including depression, difficulty concentrating, and irritability 4.
- However, bupropion may not have a significant effect on craving, anxiety, restlessness, or hunger 4.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Varenicline has been shown to have a more favorable effect on smoking cessation and emotional functioning compared to bupropion, with a generalized suppression of depression and reduced smoking reward 5.
- Bupropion has been found to be effective as an antidepressant, with a unique pharmacology that inhibits the reuptake of noradrenaline and dopamine, and may be particularly useful for patients who experience weight gain or sexual dysfunction with other antidepressants 6.
Duration of Withdrawal Symptoms
- Abstinence-related increases in anger-irritability, depressive, anxiety, and general negative affect symptoms may not resolve within 67 days of quitting smoking, even with treatment with bupropion or nicotine replacement therapy 7.
- High scores on trait measures of negative affect/neuroticism may predict greater increases in and duration of negative affect-related withdrawal symptoms 7.