Wellbutrin is an antidepressant commonly used to treat major depressive disorder. Long-term use of this medication can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon quitting.

If you have concerns like how to stop Wellbutrin safely and avoid severe withdrawal symptoms upon Wellbutrin discontinuation, this guide addresses these issues and more. You can also learn how to connect with compassionate and effective care for withdrawal from Wellbutrin.

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What Is Bupropion (Wellbutrin) Withdrawal?

Wellbutrin is a branded form of bupropion, a popular antidepressant that can also help with other conditions like anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. It’s even used to help people quit smoking in the form of Zyban.

Wellbutrin offers many potential benefits but doesn’t work for everyone. One advantage of Wellbutrin over some other antidepressants is that it has a lower risk of causing withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Bupropion withdrawal symptoms are physical reactions from a body that’s become dependent on the medication.

Some antidepressants, especially SSRIs, can cause a condition called antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, also known as withdrawal, which can be very uncomfortable.

Unlike SSRIs, which affect a brain chemical called serotonin, Wellbutrin works on different chemicals called dopamine and noradrenaline. Because of this, stopping Wellbutrin usually doesn’t cause severe withdrawal symptoms. If bupropion withdrawal symptoms occur, they are usually mild and can include:

• Excessive sweating
• Digestive problems
• Trouble sleeping

What Are Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms?

While most people don’t have withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking Wellbutrin, some might experience side effects. Here are some possible withdrawal symptoms:

• Increased sweating: You might sweat a lot more than usual.
• Digestive issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or appetite loss.
• Sleep problems: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or vivid dreams.
• Shakiness: Shaky feelings, restless legs, or numbness.
• Mood changes: Anxiety, agitation, depression, or mood swings.
• Brain zaps: Small electric-shock sensations in the head.

If you plan to stop taking Wellbutrin, talk to your doctor first. They can help you gradually reduce your dose and manage any withdrawal symptoms.

What Are Wellbutrin Missed Dose Symptoms?

If you miss a dose of Wellbutrin, you might notice some mild symptoms:

• Mood changes such as irritability or anxiety
• Tiredness or low energy
• Headache
• Difficulty concentrating

Do not double up on doses. Take the next one at the regular time.

How Long Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Last? A Withdrawal Timeline

First few days

• Irritability, anxiety, or trouble sleeping
• Headaches

Week 1

• More sweating, nausea, appetite changes
• Mood changes or agitation

1 to 2 weeks

• Peak symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, brain zaps
• Digestive issues

2 to 4 weeks

• Gradual improvement
• Better energy levels

After 1 month

• Most symptoms fade, though mild sleep or mood changes may linger

How to Stop Wellbutrin Safely

The safest way to stop taking Wellbutrin is through gradual tapering. Taper schedules usually last one to two weeks and must be guided by your doctor.

Wellbutrin Taper Schedule

A typical schedule for tapering off Wellbutrin XL 150mg may look like:

• Week 1: 150mg every other day
• Week 2: 150mg every three days
• Week 3: Stop completely

Wellbutrin Half-Life

The half-life is three to four hours when taken occasionally, but about 21 hours when taken daily.

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What Happens if You Stop Wellbutrin Cold Turkey?

Stopping Wellbutrin abruptly can cause symptoms like:

• Anxiety, irritability, depression
• Headaches, dizziness, nausea
• Insomnia or vivid dreams

Never stop Wellbutrin suddenly.

How to Know When to Seek Help

• Severe withdrawal symptoms
• Mental health decline or suicidal thoughts
• Persistent physical symptoms
• Difficulty functioning

Ways to Prevent Symptoms

• Tapering
• Hydration
• Healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Sleep routine
• Stress management

Coping With Symptoms

1. Stay connected: Reach out to family, friends, or support groups.
2. Rest and relaxation: Prioritize sleep and calming activities.
3. Healthy lifestyle: Balanced diet, hydration, and physical activity.
4. Mental health support: Therapy, CBT, mindfulness.
5. Sleep support: Create a calming bedtime routine.
6. Digestive relief: Small meals, ginger, peppermint.
7. Headache relief: Rest, cold compress, doctor-approved medication.
8. Medication management: Follow taper schedule and doctor’s advice.
9. Monitor your progress: Track symptoms and improvements.
10. Emotional support: Stay positive and celebrate progress.

Detox Options for Wellbutrin

Detox programs provide medical supervision and support:

1. Inpatient detox: 24/7 monitoring for severe symptoms.
2. Outpatient detox: Daytime treatment, home at night.
3. Medication-assisted detox: Symptom-reducing medications.

Get Compassionate Addiction Help at a World-Class Detox Facility, Gratitude Lodge

If you or someone you care about needs help with addiction, Gratitude Lodge offers detox and inpatient treatment in Long Beach and Newport Beach, CA.

As you begin detox, you can access medications for withdrawal relief, as well as 24/7 emotional and clinical support.

• Counseling
• Talk therapies
• Medication-assisted treatment
• Motivational therapy
• Family therapy
• Holistic therapies
• Group therapy
• Aftercare

Call our recovery experts today at 844-576-0144.

Sources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3678283/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/
3. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants
4. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2018/04/less-stress-clearer-thoughts-with-mindfulness-meditation/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC181057/