From the Guidelines
Vyvanse and Wellbutrin should be used with caution when taken together due to potential interactions and increased risk of side effects. Both medications affect dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which can potentially lead to increased stimulant effects and side effects when combined, as noted in the practice parameter for the use of stimulant medications 1. This interaction may cause elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, anxiety, insomnia, and in rare cases can increase the risk of seizures.
Key Considerations
- Patients taking both medications may need lower doses than if taking either medication alone
- Regular monitoring of vital signs and side effects by a healthcare provider is essential
- Never adjust doses or stop either medication without medical supervision, as both can cause withdrawal effects if discontinued abruptly
- Inform all healthcare providers about all medications being taken to avoid potential harmful interactions Although there are no studies of the combination of bupropion and stimulants in the treatment of ADHD or other psychiatric conditions, clinicians should proceed with caution in combining these agents until further studies are available, as stated in the practice parameter 1. Despite these concerns, doctors sometimes intentionally prescribe this combination for treatment-resistant depression or ADHD with comorbid depression.
From the Research
Interaction between Vyvanse and Wellbutrin
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that specifically addresses the interaction between Vyvanse and Wellbutrin.
- However, it is known that Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant, and Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that works as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor 2.
- The study by 2 discusses the use of bupropion (the active ingredient in Wellbutrin) in combination with serotonin reuptake inhibitors, but it does not mention Vyvanse specifically.
- Other studies 3, 4, 5, 6 focus on the efficacy and safety of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), but do not provide information on the interaction between Vyvanse and Wellbutrin.
- Therefore, there are no research papers in the provided evidence to assist in answering this question about the interaction between Vyvanse and Wellbutrin.