How to taper off 20 mg of Wellbutrin (bupropion)?

Tapering Bupropion (Wellbutrin) 20 mg

When discontinuing treatment with bupropion 20 mg, you should decrease the dose to 10 mg for 1-2 weeks before complete discontinuation to minimize withdrawal symptoms. 1

Understanding Bupropion Tapering

• According to the FDA drug label, when discontinuing bupropion extended-release formulations, a gradual dose reduction is recommended prior to complete discontinuation 1
• For standard formulations of bupropion, the same tapering principles apply - gradual reduction helps minimize potential withdrawal symptoms 1
• The 20 mg dose of bupropion is already quite low (below standard therapeutic doses), so a simple one-step taper is appropriate 1

Recommended Tapering Protocol

• For your 20 mg dose:
  • Step 1: Reduce to 10 mg daily for 1-2 weeks 1
  • Step 2: Complete discontinuation after the tapering period 1
• If 10 mg tablets are not available, consider taking 20 mg every other day for 1-2 weeks before stopping completely 1

Monitoring During Tapering

• Watch for potential withdrawal symptoms during the tapering process:
  • Psychological symptoms: irritability, anxiety, agitation 2
  • Physical symptoms: headache, fatigue, flu-like symptoms 2
• If withdrawal symptoms become problematic, slow the taper by extending the time at 10 mg before complete discontinuation 2, 3

Special Considerations

• Bupropion has a relatively short half-life compared to some other antidepressants, making gradual tapering important 2
• Abrupt discontinuation of antidepressants can lead to withdrawal symptoms that may be mistaken for relapse of the underlying condition 2, 3
• While bupropion generally has milder withdrawal symptoms than SSRIs or SNRIs, a gradual approach is still recommended 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Avoid stopping bupropion abruptly, which increases the risk of withdrawal symptoms 2, 4
• Don't mistake withdrawal symptoms for relapse of depression, which could lead to unnecessary resumption of medication 2
• If you experience severe symptoms during tapering, consult your healthcare provider immediately as the tapering schedule may need adjustment 3, 4

Additional Support During Tapering

• Consider non-pharmacological support during the tapering process:
  • Regular exercise can help manage mood fluctuations 5
  • Adequate sleep hygiene is important during medication changes 5
  • Stress reduction techniques may help manage any temporary symptoms 5

Remember that while this tapering schedule is appropriate for most people on 20 mg of bupropion, individual responses may vary. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience significant difficulties during the tapering process 6.