From the FDA Drug Label
To Discontinue Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (XL), Taper the Dose When discontinuing treatment in patients treated with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) 300 mg once daily, decrease the dose to 150 mg once daily prior to discontinuation.
The best way to taper off Wellbutrin (bupropion) 300mg once daily is to decrease the dose to 150mg once daily before discontinuation. However, the FDA drug label does not provide information on how to taper off sertraline (Zoloft) 200mg orally once daily. Therefore, the best approach would be to consult the sertraline drug label or consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on tapering off sertraline. Tapering should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms or other adverse effects 1.
- Key points:
- Taper Wellbutrin (bupropion) from 300mg to 150mg once daily before discontinuation.
- Consult the sertraline drug label or a healthcare professional for guidance on tapering off sertraline.
- Tapering should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
From the Research
The best way to taper off Wellbutrin (bupropion) 300mg and sertraline (Zoloft) 200mg is to do so gradually under medical supervision, with a hyperbolic reduction in dose to minimize withdrawal symptoms, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study 2.
Tapering Wellbutrin and Sertraline
When tapering off these medications, it's essential to consider the potential for withdrawal symptoms, including dizziness, irritability, headaches, flu-like symptoms, and mood disturbances.
- For Wellbutrin, a gradual reduction in dose is recommended, with a decrease to 150mg daily for 1-2 weeks, then to 150mg every other day for 1-2 weeks before stopping.
- For Zoloft, a decrease by 50mg increments every 1-2 weeks (200mg to 150mg to 100mg to 50mg to 25mg) before discontinuing is suggested.
Importance of Medical Supervision
Medical supervision throughout the tapering process is crucial, as the exact tapering schedule may need adjustment based on individual response, medical history, and the reason for discontinuation 3, 4.
Minimizing Withdrawal Symptoms
A hyperbolic reduction in dose, as used in tapering strips, has been shown to be effective in minimizing withdrawal symptoms, with a median duration of tapering of 56 days 2.
Monitoring for Withdrawal Symptoms
During the tapering process, it's essential to monitor for withdrawal symptoms or returning depression/anxiety symptoms and contact your doctor if these become severe 5.
Individualized Tapering Schedule
The tapering schedule should be individualized, taking into account the patient's medical history, the reason for discontinuation, and their response to the tapering process 6, 4.