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Global Patient Feedback for Bupropion ( Post a comment )
Question/Comment:
I have been on Buprpion SR for well over 6 months now and I didn't feel like it was working alone so my md prescribed me Paxil CR as well. I have been taking the CR for about three months and at first when I started the Wellbutrin I lost weight and had insomnia but the insomnia comes and goes still. I am now starting to gain weight and I feel like the medicines aren't working as they should since I still have mood swings sometimes very angry mood swings. Is it possible the medicine isn't working anymore? I don't know what to switch to because I have tried a lot of different medicines and usually I cannot take them because they make me sleepy or sick. I think I am basically staying on the Bupropion because I am hoping that I will lose weight or that I am scared once I discontinue taking it I will gain more weight. I don't know what to do. Please help!
27 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-18 13:37:29
Question/Comment:
Question:
Your safety report says "Using Bupropion and Clonidine together may have additive effets on blood pressure and sedation." Does "additive effects" mean it can further raise or lower BP? That wording is confusing to me.
59 year old Male
Posted: 2009-09-16 16:57:41
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Bupropion and clonidine both can lower blood pressure and cause sedation. Using them together may further lower blood pressure and increase the chance that you may experience drowsiness or sedation.
Posted: 2009-09-23 09:59:16
Question/Comment:
I recently stopped taking bupropion because it gave me violent mood swings. I was quick to anger and felt that I could not control it. I was taking it for depression and smoking cessation. Even at the lowest dose (100 mg), I still felt my anger was unwarranted and out of control.
24 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-08 10:51:25
Question/Comment:
i started wellbutrin in june, after i was up to 60mg, i started having what i call tiny seizures, muscle spasms all over my body, especially my back and neck, my doc has decreased my dose from 60 to 40 and now, 20. i still have the spasms, but not as violently or as often.
27 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-31 16:30:44
Question/Comment:
10 years ago I was taking Wellbutrin. I remember one day speaking on the phone one minute and laying in a puddle of blood the next. My tonge was also full of bite marks and bruises. My aunt who is a doctor said Wellbutrin can cause seizures so that is the only explanation I have for what happened. That was the first and last time I ever had a seizure in my entire life so I am sure it was due to Wellbutrin.
31 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-22 00:55:12
Question/Comment:
Can Wellbutrin XL have a different affect the second time you take it? I was on it for about a year 3 years ago. I loved it! The only side effects were dry mouth and weight loss(not a negative). About 5 months ago my doctor put me on citalopram which made me feel like a zombie and I started gaining weight so we decided to switch to the wellbutrin. I have been on the wellbutrin for about 7 weeks now and off the citalopram for a little over 1 week. Im having a completely different experience than I did before. No dry mouth or weight loss instead headaches, ringing in my ears, clenched jaw, continued weight gain and irritability. Is this a different reaction to the wellbutrin or due to the combination of the two drugs? The headaches are more recent so I figured they may be withdrawal from the citalopram. I will be really disappointed if the wellbutrin doesn't work this time!
33 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-07 15:34:40
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
It is possible to experience different symptoms of a medication based on the dose, interactions with other medications and your overall health condition. Approximately 5% of iGuard patients reported headache as a side effect while taking Wellbutrin. In addition the following rates were observed by iGuard patients as well on Wellbutrin: 5% weight gain, 5% mood disorders and 5% muscle pain or stiffness. It is possible some of the side effects may be from residual Citalopram and it it too soon to tell at this time. If your symptoms continue or worsen you should report them to your doctor and review the best choice(s) for you.
Posted: 2009-08-13 17:06:55
Answer/Reply:
I have been on wellbutrin since my husband passed and it sure help me, so keep trying it. god bless
73 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-16 19:50:50
Answer/Reply:
I was on Wellbutrin xl & was switched to generic for about 6 months & then I requested Wellbutrin xl non generic again & now I have off & on headaches on the right side behind my eye. Maybe I'm adjusting , I don't know but at the same time my dr. increased my Synthroid from 75 mcg to 88mcg so I don't know which is causing the headaches for now.
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-23 23:58:05
Answer/Reply:
IT SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAVENT BEEN OFF OF THE FIRST MED LONG ENOUGH TO GET THE SAME RESULTS AS WELLBUTRIN DID FOR YOU YEARS AGO, HANG IN THERE, AND REMEMBER OUR BODIES CHANGE AS WE YOU KNOW AS WE GET OLDER
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-24 06:34:45
Answer/Reply:
I was on Citalopram too, before switching to bupropion. It caused horrible weight gain and stuff. It took a minute after getting on bupropion for me to start seeing weightloss. I went from 113 to 138 in a matter of months. I started taking bupropion last November and I am just reaching 119, so I am almost back to my regular weight. When I switched, I had the same side effects for a month or so and it resolved itself. Just hang in there, those benefits will come back. It is just trying to kick the BAD citalopram out! LOL.
27 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-02 14:14:34
Question/Comment:
I have been on the Wellbutrin for over a year and been very happy with it.
Now the insurance co. is saying I need to take the generic. I have heard
bad things about the generic. Are these "bad things" the norm?
Have others been just as happy on the generic?
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-06 13:02:11
Answer/Reply:
I have taken the generic for years or should I say since it was offered. I, myself, do not find any difference between the namebrand and generic. I also prefer generic meds over namebrand do to cost and have never had a problem. Good luck I hope this helps :)
42 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-12 15:59:17
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking Bupropion (the generic) from the start so I can't give you any comaprisons. I can say it is the best med I have ever tried for depression. I have not been depressed since starting about 2 years ago. I have more energy mentally to get things done including physical exercise. I do get involved in projects and forget to eat. That makes it makes it hard to gain weight and I need to do that.
66 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-15 21:28:48
Answer/Reply:
I have always taken the generic & never had any side effects other than associated weight loss.
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-16 12:16:33
Answer/Reply:
Hello I have been taking Wellbutrin for a long time since probably around 23 years old I am 43 now, I have tried other anitidepresants in my life and I keep going back to Wellbutrin just works better for me. I use the Buproprian generic brand and have no problems. I switched over to Cymbalta probably around 07 became really irritable and gained weight. etc.. made me more irritable. tried getting off the Cymbalta ir was horrible.. anyway I guess what I'm trying to say is Generic Wellbutrin to me works best even if it is generic. I also take ADD medication Adderal I never knew these two could be mixed together . finally when I tried that my frustration and focus was even better.. what a difference no more being depressed overall for me the two together helped a lot. depression and ADD. anyway I hope you have good luck with it. I know how frustrating it is to try and find what works good for yourself.. I have tried a lot till I found out about the wellbutrin. Prozac, Effexor, Zoloft, even lithium, that stuff did nothing for me except make me feel euphoric at work too in my 20's. lots more.. anyway Good Luck to you and take care!. sorry for any spelling errors. :)
43 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-17 08:22:20
Answer/Reply:
The generic has worked just as well for me also. I don't believe that there is any difference in the active ingrediants. There should not be any different reactions to using the generic over the name brand ---except, of course, the price. :) Go for it!!
35 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-17 10:12:10
Answer/Reply:
The generic should be exactly the same formulation as the name brand... I have taken both and notice no difference.
42 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-18 14:18:11
Answer/Reply:
I HAVE BEEN ON THE GENERIC FORM OF WELLBUTRIN FOR 2 YEARS NOW.I DON'T FEEL ANY DIFFERENT FROM BEING ON THE ORIGINAL WELLBUTRIN.IT REALLY HELPS ME WITH MY DEPRESSION.I ALSO SEEN ON ONE OF THE TALK SHOWS THAT GENERIC MEDICINE ISN'T ANY DIFFERENT STRENGTH WISE.YOUR REALLY PAYING FOR THE NAME WHEN YOU DON'T GET GENERIC.
55 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-18 16:30:47
Answer/Reply:
I take the generic of the Wellbutrin and they call it Bupropion XL and I take the 300 MG and the only thing I've had was dry mouth but I take 4 other meds so it can be from any of them.
I've been on this generic 1 for over a year
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-20 10:56:12
Answer/Reply:
The generics are different! I have found the TEVA brand to have the fewest side effects.
56 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-20 23:06:27
Answer/Reply:
I hate the generic of welbutrin...it made me very ill every yime I tried it.
52 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-21 08:25:15
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking the generic for Wellbutrin for several years with no noticable side effects...the cost difference is a plus considering the name brand is very expensive.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-21 19:24:21
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking the generic brupopion for several years and am very happy with the reults and have none of the side effects.
50 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-23 19:29:30
Answer/Reply:
hi, you know i switched from brand name wellbutrin to generic and i did have trouble, but i think it may have been a rare instance. I was given 150 buspirion(sp) two different kinds, there is one that looks like brand name white tablet er, and then there is another exact same med its yellow and more oval shaped. For me the white tablet didnt work at all but the yellow one has been fine, i just asked my pharmasist to give me just the yellow one, this is my own experience. Hope it goes well for you.
33 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-23 23:17:26
Answer/Reply:
I have been on generic wellbutrin, called bupropin ( I think ) and it has worked fine for me. I'm sure that if your doctor says it is alright, it is.
43 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-23 23:55:43
Answer/Reply:
I tried a generic and it was like I was taking nothing. I didn't want to get out of bed most days - and with two little ones it's not an option! I actually had my dose upped and the script written DAW. Now a year later I'm hoping to decrease the dose. Fingers are crossed. I'm on it for Anxiety & PMDD.
34 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-27 16:34:55
Question/Comment:
I have been sick for 8 months. It totally came out of the blue one night, and I've been in pain every single day since then. I feel sick to my stomach constantly, get headaches, have crushing pains in my shoulders/chest/back, feel like someone is choking me, I get a really tight feeling under my tongue and excess saliva that is extremely uncomfortable, heart tightness, pressure in my neck that moves up to my jaw and into my ears, feeling of breathlessness if I sing sometimes, and I can't sleep as I always feel worse in evenings...so many strange things. I was told it was anxiety and was given Celexa- I tried it for a week and was in so much pain I stopped. I was then given xanax which I take occasionally to help calm down because I get nervous about how I feel and to fall asleep- but it does not relieve the pain/symptoms at all. I'm a 20 year old female and I've seen so many doctors and had so many tests done and ER visits that all show I am perfectly healthy. I did find out I have hashimoto's disease, but that it's in too early of a stage to need thyroid med and it shouldn't be causing any of these symptoms. I have no quality of life, I had to quit my job and now I am taking a semester off college. I've been fighting the anxiety/depression diagnosis but I finally caved because it's become my last option. I took my first wellbutrin hcl xl today and although it's nowhere near as bad as the celexa made me feel, I'm still horribly nauseous feeling. I'm wondering if anyone agrees that my symptoms are caused by anxiety/depression and this will help me. I am at my wit's end with being in pain every single day and I want my life back.
20 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-03 02:00:11
Answer/Reply:
Are your bones hurting? If so ask about fibromyalgia. Depression and anxiety go with fibo. My wife has fibro and sounds like some of the same symptoms. My wife can only take certain meds, many have opposite effects of what is intended. Fibo can be very hard to diagnose but your symtoms sound much like my wife's. Good luck, I know what your dealing with.
51 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-06 20:15:22
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Anxiety can certainly cause physical problems such as headaches, trouble sleeping, and tight-feeling sensations. While Xanax can help, it's possible that you may need a higher dose. A similar drug, Valium, has more muscle relaxant properties than Xanax. You may want to speak with your doctor about that. Also keep in mind that although some people begin to feel better right away, it generally takes 4 to 6 weeks before you see full benefits from antidepressants like Celexa and Wellbutrin. There are many antidepressant drugs besides Celexa and Wellbutrin, so you may need to try a couple of different antidepressants before you find one that works.
Alternatively, meditation or a relaxing activity can work together with medication. Speaking with a therapist or health care provider who specializes in mental health may be a solution as well.
Posted: 2009-08-10 23:11:22
Answer/Reply:
Hi i am a 53 years male,i read you comment about how you feel,all what you say sound very familiar to me, i was 21 when a have my first panic attack, i see a psiquiatra and he give me Xanax for 10 years,on those years i when to see many doctors and like you i was perfectly healthy, i was having the same symptoms you have,what you have on my opinion is a lot anxiety and nervous,you need a therapy to learn to deal with the anxiety,and learn where the anxiety come from,with a medication. After a take my therapy,i switch the Xanax for Klonopin and Wellbutrin SR,now a taking 1mg.of Klonopin and 150 mg of Wellbutrin in the morning and 1mg of Klonopin and 150mg. of Wellbutrin SR on the afternoon and i fine,you need to learn to relax and learn to breath slowly,is going to take some time, be patience and you going to be ok, have pace and you heart is going to help you too,some people don't have pace on the heart and their life is miserable..you going to be ok,repeat to you,I GOING TO BE OK,every time you feel anxiety or depress.............God bless you..................You going to be ok............
54 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-19 05:26:45
Answer/Reply:
It'll take a while for your body to absorb the medication. I had the nausea, the tightness in my chest, jaw aches, etc. for about a month. What I did was put myself on a strict schedule-woke up at a certain time, ate my meals/snacks at certain times, drank a lot of water and juice, took walks as often as I could (helps to produce seratonin-good thing!) and turned off the TV early & turned on soft music until it was time to go to bed. I also ate food that was kind of bland to help soothe my stomach. I also journaled--wrote down everything that stressed me out about the day, and at the very end, wrote "what's done is done; tomorrow I have the power to change".
45 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-21 10:06:59
Answer/Reply:
While I am no doctor, and while some of your symptoms I have never had, I have had alot. After many many years in so much pain that I thought I would rather die I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and restless leg syndrome. To this day I am not sure I agree as I dont have many symptoms others do, but regardless I finaly went to a Pain management doctor. I did research myself and demanded trying things even when they said it would not help. For several months I have been on Mirapex and although they swore it would do nothing, and that it was the same as another medicine I tried (requip) I insisted. I have had only a handfull of painful days, as opposed to the other way around. I have also been on a fentanyl patch (which is a strong morphine type patch), and it seems to work with the mirapex great. While the patch is a narcotic it is not like a pill. There is no feeling "high" or anything like that. I dont plan to be on it forever, but while we explore other possibilities I am pain free and that is ok by me! Good Luck!
30 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-21 17:55:16
Answer/Reply:
I agree with one of the other replys to your questions. I have fibromyalgia and was diagnosed with other things, but this has has been my main problem. All of your symptoms sound like you should definitely go to a rheumatologist and ask about it anyway. Stress can always make symptoms worse and constantly being afraid of what's coming next doesn't help. There isn't a cure to fibro and sometimes I had bad side effects from trying different meds (and then would try something else). Eventually I learned to deal with the severe pain all of the time and take only anti-inflammatories and pain medicine so I can function (the Wellbutrin would probably be a good thing to for a while). I wish I could tell you that all of the symptoms will go away, but they will definely be better. Check it out! You may be surprised that you can actually get some relief to 'some' of your symptoms, especially the pain. Good luck and I hope you can return to school soon and back to work.
59 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-23 09:44:55
Answer/Reply:
Hi. You sound like me a year ago. Although I am 43, i felt the same way you are right now.
After visits and a couple different medications, i am finally on a "cocktail" that works for me. If you have a GOOD primary doctor and you can sit and talk to them as I did and find something that works for you. I am on both Lexapro and Wellbutrin. A couple years ago i tried wellbutrin by it's self to add in stop smoking and HATED IT! So then when my mind and body turned on me after a couple different things I ended up pn the Lexapro. After a couple weeks of side effects, This helped me a lot, but still was having some issues thats when the Wellbutrin came in. My docotr assured me they worked great together. after about another month of feeling the side affects, She was right. I feel so much better. Any time I start or stop any of the medications for anxiety/depression - there are side effects. Not all people react to the anxiety/depression medications the same, but remember not all anxiety/depression is the same. It comes in many forms. And just because you take a pill you will not feel better right away. It can take many months to get back to where you use to be. I am still working on that. Give it a few weeks on Wellbutrin. The side effects should start going away and you should be able to start breathing again. Good Luck to you
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-28 11:36:12
Answer/Reply:
I have to eat something substantial in order to keep the Wellbutrin from making me feel sick. It also puts me in high gear and I have to remember to eat.
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-29 08:15:10
Answer/Reply:
I believe it is meant to give you some energy; at least that is why I get it so that should be normal. Any medicine like this, I've always been told to make sure and eat when taking it. It causes weightloss for a lot of people as well; doesn't do that for me though and I would love that LOL. The thing is you have to eat enough to lose weight; your metabolism needs something to work with and that's why you get that weird feeling to your stomach when you don't eat while taking it.
51 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-06 00:50:12
Answer/Reply:
i can empathize with you...totally. i am fifty three years old and have been struggling with anxiety-depression since my late teens.
i know this will sound crazy to you, but try yoga, the eastern style. it has helped me tremendously in many ways. the asanas or exercises are wonderful when you breathe correctly thru them and dont push it. do at your own speed and level. try ordering videos from wai lana web site and order beginners. i promise , it will benefit you greatly with anxiety and depression and pain. if i can help you in any other way, my email is cookieis49@aol.com God bless you and keep you.
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-10-20 19:45:38
Answer/Reply:
when i first started generic wellbutrin i was very nauseated for a few days but it totally went away afterwards.
53 year old Female
Posted: 2009-11-03 23:29:31
Question/Comment:
I just started Wellbutrin 5 days ago for low energy and low concentration and have felt twitchy and jittery and just uncomfortable, not to mention I still can't concentrate or get motivated. I know I just started the medication I just want to know how long this lasts? I have a very active lifestyle and am kind of sick of dealing with these meds not working.
21 year old Male
Posted: 2009-07-31 19:27:49
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Twitching was reported as a side effect by up to 2% of patients taking Wellbutrin during the clinical trials performed by the manufacturer of the medication. In addition, tremor was reported as a side effect in up to 3% of the patients taking Wellbutrin. In general, the higher the dose of Wellbutrin the more frequent the side effect. There is a possibility that the twitching may not subside even after the medication stabilizes in your system. If these side effects are still bothering you or if you don't see an improvement in your condition, please follow up with your doctor.
Posted: 2009-08-03 22:54:23
Answer/Reply:
well, basically any antidepressant takes at least 4-6 weeks to kick in. hopefully u will feel better and notice a positive difference soon.
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-04 15:41:44
Answer/Reply:
The drug does take about 10+ days to really take effect. Watch if your drinking too much coffee/tea...etc. Also - do not take Wellbutrin with Grapefruit juice or Orange juice, that combo will cause the jitters
51 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-16 15:00:00
Answer/Reply:
It took me 2wks.for it to get into my system and it was and is great how I feel like I'm not taking anything but amazing how it is helping me!! I went through a lot that 2wks. but was worth it all!!
66 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-16 21:06:03
Answer/Reply:
I have a hard time imagining someone with "a very active lifstyle" as really needing an anti-depressant.. But what do I know- I'm the sort of depressed person who rarely leaves my home, much less has any sort of lifestyle- active or otherwise....
45 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-17 23:19:50
Answer/Reply:
When i started Wellbutrin that happened to me. It took about 2 weeks to get over it, but after that everything evened out.
35 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-18 20:06:50
Answer/Reply:
I understand how you feel. The first week I took Zyban I had terrible reactions to it too. I even sent my beloved pet to stay with friends as I was having great difficulty listening to her 'whine'. Then all of a sudden like the 8th or 9th day, I woke up happy, no agitation, a little bit of appetite, and just feeling so much more...better! Now I'm a happy girl again. I've even discussed with my dr that in my opinion, that's the best anti-depressant I've been on in years, and the non smoking (reason I started it)is great too! Hang in there, it is so worth it.
47 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-24 11:38:27
Answer/Reply:
I started on antidepresants/anti anxiety medication 6 years ago and was told I would experience various side effects for up to two weeks, and I did. I felt jittery and irritiable for a bout two week then things got better. It make take trying more than one drug before you find one that works well for you. Also you body can develope tolerance for these medications which mean they may need to be changed because the one you are on stops working or working as well.
61 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-24 18:31:40
Answer/Reply:
It will pass. I have been taking for 18 months now with no side effects but heartburn. I was a bit unmotivated at first but now, I feel just fine.
Debby 53
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-25 21:42:30
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking Wellbutrin for a long time. If I remember right Wellbutrin is only an antidepressant and help quit smoking. You shouldn't be feeling twitchy. Have a question for you why are you taking Wellbutrin? Are you trying to quit smoking or using it as an antidepressant?
42 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-31 13:41:00
Answer/Reply:
I have been on Wellbutrin for about 5 years now.I take 300 mg. 2 times a day. I remember when I first started I felt the same as you. I have already been on and off so many meds. before Wellbutrin I just figured it would be another waist of time. After a few weeks I did start to see a huge difference . I was shocked that I finally found something that made me feel better. I started Wellbutrin for depression,low energy concentration and bipolar. I am still doing great after 5 years although my dose did need to be increased after about 2 years. Another med was also added in the last 2 years to help with my concentration. It is a med for A.D.D ( DEXEDRINE. ) My life is so much better with the combo of the meds the Wellbutrin for the depression and the Dexedrine for my attention and concentration. You may want to talk to your Dr. about it. Good luck and just hang in there it will take a little time but it is very well worth the wait!
31 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-03 11:33:33
Answer/Reply:
I have several health issues, mainly, digestion type issues and an inability to absorb well and getting gobs of side effects. I have MDD (major depression). I had many of those issues and then, after about 3-4 weeks, as soon as I quit working and tried to relax, I was HUGELY suicidal. I went out for an hour and it went away. This happened for a couple of days then it FINALLY kicked in. Yes, my psychiatrist was immediately called.
46 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-04 11:33:27
Question/Comment:
I am a smoker. I have tried other methods to quit smoking and have been unsuccessful. I asked my doctor for help and she prescribed Zyban (Bupropion). I asked about risks and side effects and basically told me that they were minimal. When I got home I check iGuard and found out that this medication could end up harming me. My risk factor was 5. One of the risk was low heart rate and dizziness if taken with Midodrine. First of all, I have a pacemaker. I also take Midodrine because I have low blood pressure and the Midodrine help to keep my blood pressure stable so that my blood pressure does not drop. If my blood pressure drops, I will get dizzy and possibly pass out, this will also effect my heart. Second, I take Methotrexate, and have regular blood test to check my liver. Zyban could cause problems with my liver. These are very serious conditions and I am not will to take the chance. I am going to return this medicine to pharmacy for proper disposal. I am not willing to take a chance on heart or liver failure. I am going to try to go cold turkey. After reading what this drug can do, I have discovered an inner strength I didn't know I had. Every time I think of smoking, I am go to remember what Zyban or other drugs like it can do to me.
46 year old Female
Posted: 2009-07-28 16:05:30
Answer/Reply:
This is awesome. So very glad for you!! I just switched from taking Wellbutrin to stop smoking and for depression and am now taking Cymbalta because of one of it's effects helps with Neuropathy pain and I have it in my feet very badly post surgery. I am hoping it goes away in time. I do not have diabetes and all cases I have found related Diabetes with Neuropathy together.
45 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-18 14:57:43
Question/Comment:
I have taken wellbutrin for 5 weeks and have severe heartburn. what can i do or take to aleviate this?
40 year old Male
Posted: 2009-07-27 18:41:58
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Less than 1% if iGuard patients reported heartburn or acid reflux as a side effect to taking wellbutrin. You should discuss this side effect with your doctor to make sure it is not caused by another condition and to evaluate its severity. There are many therapy options you can discuss with your doctor, including as needed over-the-counter preparations and full strength prescription products for more severe conditions.
Posted: 2009-07-28 22:20:11
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking this med for awhile and ya it gave me heartburn too. My doc gave me ranitidine or zantac, it has helped alot, and i no longer have the heartburn
35 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-01 16:38:37
Answer/Reply:
I myself just started taking Protonix for the heartburn I have due to Wellbutrin as well. It eliminated all of it with the very first dosage!
45 year old Male
Posted: 2009-08-18 14:54:20
Answer/Reply:
I am 56 and have been on Wellbutrin/Tegretrol for over 14 years now for my bipolar disorder and because of my insurance I had to start taking the generic form - I can only tell you that last year I thought I was having a heart attack and was taken to the ER and after many tests found out it was just heartburn so I am now on Protonix and thus no more heartburn - that is unless I forget a pill. I don't know if this was because I had to switch to the generic form or what. I just make sure if someone hands me a prescription they know I am taking the above medication because some medications do not do well with depression medicine. I have to take this medication for life and have had no maniac episodes but without it I fear that my life would go downhill and I would have to be hospitalized again for severe depression - not worth it. I am so much more happier now and if all it takes is popping these pills then I just do it. Good luck and please give Wellbutrin a chance to work - life for me is wonderful now - not perfect but what is - I just take each day as one I wouldn't have if my suicide attempts had been successful.
56 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-20 13:37:08
Answer/Reply:
Nexium works great!
30 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-21 17:56:12
Answer/Reply:
I also take Wellbutrin ~ the generic version ~ and that works for me. I take it in the morning with food, and I also take generic Prilosec at the same time. I find that having something on my stomach, using the Prilosec and staying upright for at least one half hour works for me.
59 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-22 01:27:17
Question/Comment:
I am experiencing a case of hives. Can I take Benadryl while on Wellbutrin?
43 year old Female
Posted: 2009-07-27 17:06:37
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Wellbutrin may increase Benadryl levels in your body when these two drugs are used together. This can increase the risk of Benadryl side effects, so you will want to watch for side effects of extreme drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. You can reduce the risk of side effects from Benadryl by trying to use the lowest dose possible. With that said, it is best to call your physician or on-call service when experiencing something like hives. The cause of the hives needs to be identified. Make sure any healthcare professional has a complete record of your medications and also let him or her know of any changes in medication, soap or food that you have had recently.
Posted: 2009-07-28 00:29:12
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking welbutrin daily for five years and do not experience any side effects except for mild insomia periodically.
78 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-27 02:21:37
Answer/Reply:
yes you can i had to and it worked good iv been on wellbutrin for 9 months and i had hives for the frist 2 months on and off
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-08-27 20:15:32
Answer/Reply:
I've been taking Wellbutrin for a few years and never had a problem with it, but hives is usually a sign of an allergic reaction. I would contact my doctor immediately if I were you and let him/her know about this.
51 year old Female
Posted: 2009-09-06 00:44:56
Question/Comment:
Clonapine and WellbutrinXL are the best things that ever came my direction. Four years ago I had gotten addicted to Xanax given by my Dr.'s for 10 years and never told that it was addicting.I wasn't abusing it only taking what was prescribed. I had to totally get off all medication and go through withdrawal, which was devastating for me and my family I was so nervous that I went for several months that I could not go anywhere and could not stand to even get outside my bedroom. We finally found a place in a nearby city that I forced myself to go to and stayed for almost 3 weeks. Three days before I was dismissed the Dr. gave me Clopanine and it opened a whole new world for me. She already had me on WellbutrinXL. I have had no problem with either medication.
Not everyone can take the same meds its according to your own body what you can take. I have just turned 72 years old and feel great.
73 year old Female
Posted: 2009-07-13 20:58:38
Question/Comment:
this medication doesn't help me at all im supposed 2 b taking it for depression that i dont even have
29 year old Male
Posted: 2009-07-08 22:18:59
Question/Comment:
My doctor is taking me off Wellbutrin. I am taking it along with Effexor XR. I am on the lowest dosage for both and have been on them for a couple of years. All was well until recently, I have had such violent sleep episodes, including Restless Leg Syndrome, Parkinson's-like tremors and twitching of my entire body where it feels like pins or electricity are running up my spine. I was also talking in my sleep mulitple times in a night. It would wake me up and I would not be able to stop the speech until several words were out. This is very scary stuff! I have never had any of these symptoms in my life...only depression.
I am also taking Armour Thyroid for hypothyroidism. I had a recent blood test, and the levels are normal. My Dr. is speculating that my brain chemistry is changing and this is perhaps a sign that it no longer needs this level of drugs. I have gone through menopause (i'm age 50) and have had my last period two years ago. While going through perimenopause for many years I became severely depressed. Now that I am over the bridge, so to speak, I am hoping that I may not need medication down the road.
I also was told by the nurse at my Dr's office that I could split Wellbutrin pills. I appreciate hearing that it is a misuse of the drug, which I suspected.
I am offering this description of my personal experience, in hopes that it helps other people out there who are looking for answers.
God Bless -
51 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-26 21:41:05
Question/Comment:
I have been taking Wellbutrin, Effexor 75 mgs, Effexor 150, Lamictal and Janumet for a long time. Janumet was started about a year ago but all the others I have taken for years. I also take many other medications for other acute to chronic illnesses. What is a person suppose to do when just about every medication you (HAVE) to take is not suppose to be taken with something else you are taking? Any sugguestions? I do make sure that all of my doctors know all medications and dosages that I take on a daily basis. I don't know that there is much else to do. I wouldn't know if I was having a reaction or not. I would just think it might be one of my other (little illnesses) rearing their ugle heads.
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-26 14:04:43
Question/Comment:
I have been on the generic wellbutrin since September. When I first started I noticed an improvement in my ability to stay focused, but that didn't last very long. I also lost 10 lbs because it decresed my appetite. The only side effects I have experienced have been sudden twitches, usually when I'm laying down, and I use to clench my teeth and bite one side of my tongue. The clenching stopped. Overall I would say I am happy with this medicine. Oh yeah I almost forgot, I have a schizophrenic sister who would smoke 2 packs a day and quite immediately after starting this medicine. She has made it over 6months with no cigarettes and counting!!!
31 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-20 03:28:31
Question/Comment:
I currently take the generic verision of Wellbutrin XL, but I take Budeprion, NOT Bupropion. I have found that the Bupropion does NOT work for me. My symptoms return and I become extremely moody and anger quickly. I was told by my Pharmacist that although the two (Budeprion and Bupropion) are of the same chemical make up, they are put together differently therefore reacting differently on the patient. What really stinks is that Bud costs more than Bup because the insurance companies do not recognize the difference and will only consider Bup as the generic drug.
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-14 21:13:09
Answer/Reply:
Thanks for the information. I was on Buproprion for a while, but now that I don't have insurance I have to order in bulk elsewhere and they only have brand. Come to think of it, I do feel better and I will stick with brand Wellbutrin XL from now on.
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-24 20:51:00
Answer/Reply:
I am wondering how you could tell the effects were from the bupropion. was it a sudden, obvious thing? I began taking this just a few days ago, and it happened to be when I am at my most stressed and grumpy (yes, that time) but also I was making a switch from paroxetine to wellbutrin and I am finding that I am extremely tense, agitated, frustrated and short tempered with my children. are these the type of effects you are talking about? thanks
38 year old Female
Posted: 2009-07-02 12:02:03
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Increases in anxiety, agitation, insomnia and restlessness have occurred with bupropion especially in the few days after starting the drug. The side effects should lessen as the drug stabilizes in your body. You should contact your doctor to alert them that you are experiencing these side effects and continue to communicate with your physician if they worsen.
Posted: 2009-07-02 22:48:41
Answer/Reply:
I found the following exerpt from a 2008 article, but the information is still relevant. I also included a comment from a user with a suggestion of how we can take action to help the situation. Pass it on.
"The FDA reviewed 85 post-marketing reports in which 78 patients who switched from Glaxo’s Wellbutrin XL 300 mg dose to Teva’s Budeprion XL 300 mg complained the pill simply wasn’t working, while others complained about various side effects, such as headaches and anxiety. These FDA noted the cases occurred at a time when sales data suggest that hundreds of thousands of patients using Wellbutrin XL were switched to Teva’s newly available generic (back story).
The FDA report was prompted by hundreds of postings on the People’s Pharmacy web site, which contained complaints of side effects from patients who switched meds. And an independent study by ConsumerLab.com found the once-daily Budeprion XL released 34 percent of its active ingredient after two hours, compared to 8 percent for the original drug.
I urge everyone here to report their bad experiences w/ Wellbutrin generics (esp. for 300mg XL) to the FDA. Do a Google search for “FDA Medwatch Reporting Form†and either submit your info online or download the form & mail it in with medical documents to support your statements. Yes, it’s an involved process & the form is a bit confusing - but this can encourage the FDA to investigate the safety of these generics & take our complaints seriously. I’ve had bad experiences w/ the Teva & Anchen generics, and the Watson generic actually put me in the hospital. This is happening to too many people to merely be “all in our headsâ€â€¦"
You can find the whole article here: www.pharmalot.com/2008/09/fda-to-review-generic-wellbutrin-again/
36 year old Female
Posted: 2009-07-03 11:36:49
Question/Comment:
I have just recently started taking Bupropion XL 300mg (Wellbutrin generic) and have been having restless legs and foot and ankle cramps. Is this a related side effect? Also, my doctor has me cutting the pills in half. Doesn't this defeat the purpose of extended release? Help!
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-23 12:40:50
Answer/Reply:
I've never experienced that side effect while taking W. However, W is a stimulant, so I suppose restless legs would be entirely possible, due to the stimulation of the brain.
About the cutting - it sounds suspicious to me, too. Ask the pharmacist. I take 100mg 2 times daily and have never cut any pills. You should be able to just buy lower dose pills and forego the cutting - and ask your pharmacist to check the price done both ways. Usually that's why a doc will tell you to cut pills - b/c they believe it to be more cost effective for you...and sometimes it is, while sometimes it doesn't make a hill of beans.
36 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-16 16:12:10
Answer/Reply:
If you are taking the XL, which is a timed-release pill, cutting it breaks open the layers and might keep the slow release from working. My rule of thumb is never to cut anything that says "extended release," or that has an enteric coating that slows the dissolving process.
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-28 23:10:48
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking Bupropion XL300mg for almost 2 years and have not had any of the symptoms you describe. Though sometimes, while sleeping, I am awakened by mild quivers or tremors that are internal not external and I am able to go right back to sleep. Other than that, it has been a good selection for me.
I also asked about cutting the pill in half when I was changed from the 150mg to the 300mg dosage but my doctor told me no, that it doesn't work that way.
I also have a pharmacist that is quite knowledgeable and I always ask him his opinion when I have questions about my meds. That may be another source to ask if you haven't already.
56 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-17 00:26:33
Answer/Reply:
WHEN I STARTED TAKING BUPRION IT MADE ME REALLY NERVOUS AND I ALSO HAD JUMPY LEGS (RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME). TRAZADONE CURED THAT. I ALSO WAS WEANED TO AROUND 1/2 THE MG DOSE WHEN I WAS PUT ON EXTENDED RELEASE. HANG IN THERE.
43 Y/O FEMALE
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-17 06:45:48
Answer/Reply:
I am not a doctor,but i taking Wellbutrin XL 150 Mg. tablets,together with Klonopin 1Mg. in the morning and 1 mg. of Klonopin as needed ,work ok for me,i ask my doctor about the same question you have about cutting the pill in half, you right defeat the purpose of extended release,ask you doctor to prescribe you a 150 mg. tablet that way you don' to cut in half,about you restless legs and foot and ankle cramps,can be a side effect,but i think is something also,on you question you don't said if you taking another medication, some medications don't work together, give you bad side effects, i am a male 53 years old,i start taking Xanax when i was 21 years old for 10 years, the doctor never said to me the Xanax was a very addictive medication,i not recommend Xanax ......Good luck!!!!...
54 year old Male
Posted: 2009-05-19 01:03:43
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking Bupropion XL 300mg for approx. 5 months now, I too experienced leg cramps, and muscle twiches,along with a speech issue..(stammering) but, it has passed and I no longer have any side effects.
My experience is that some medications take a while to level out, but if these symptoms continue I would tell your Doctor...Hope this helps.
45 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-20 14:37:42
Answer/Reply:
OMG! Don't cut the pills in half!!!! It even says that right on the bottle. There's a reason it's slow release. You're getting the full dose all at once instead of throughout the day!
42 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-20 16:12:49
Answer/Reply:
I take Bupropion in the A.M. because it is a stimulant. I also suffer from RLS/restless leg syndrome, but had it before I started taking the Bupropion. I take 300MG once in the A.M. For my RLS I am being given Ropinirole which is the generic of Requip. I take 1MG at night for my symptoms and it also helps for my difficulty falling asleep. I have had no bad side affects to my knowledge from taking Bupropion/Welburtin XL. If you take it at night, you should definately talk to your dr. about taking it in the A.M. and then definately not cut it(you might seek another dr. if your's is telling you to do stuff that's not right. they might not be very knowledgeable about their meds which is never good). And always consider your pharmacist a good source on any medicines. If you are still going to take Bupropion, you might consider asking for a scrip for Requip which comes in a generic form, which is the Ropinirole. That helps me tremendously with my leg symptoms which at times used to drive me crazy-ha! Good luck to you.
30 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-21 23:18:55
Answer/Reply:
I have been on the highest dosage of Wellbutrin for at least 2 years and I have had no problems at all. 40 year old female
41 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-22 17:11:19
Answer/Reply:
I've been on generic wellbutrin for a year now, and sometimes had restless leg syndrome too, which I "cured" with an ibuprofen or 2. I still take them, and it seems to fix the problem. If I still am restless, I'll eat a carb, like some cereal. That helps a lot. Check with your doctor, though, because ibuprofen can cause stomach problems with no warning - like bleeding ulcers.
As far as the breaking in two, I'm not sure - I'd ask the doctor or pharmacist.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-22 17:15:12
Answer/Reply:
The leg cramping should go away and if it doesn't eat a banana at night before you go to bed - at least that worked for me. As for the cutting the pills in half, it does defeat the purpose of the extended release, in fact they say not to do that - they come in 150 mg, ask your doctor for that instead.
45 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-22 19:17:42
Answer/Reply:
I am fully agreeing with you. I had been taking the Wellbutrin xl and they switched me to Bupropion XL 300. I have had similar results and long restless nights. My doctor had to send letters to my insurance company to force them to allow me Wellbutrin.
41 year old female
42 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-22 20:25:02
Answer/Reply:
I just left a very stressfull job, one that had me taking this in the first place a little over two years ago. It has worked fine for me and now that I am working from home I feel I can go off of Bupropion. My doctor said not to cut the pills in half- it is not recommended. She will lower my dose slowly when I decide to wean off of it. There is a lower dose in the generic but it is 100 mgs, less than half of the regular dose I am on now. I will post a comment when a decision is made and let you know how she (my doc) is approaching this. It is a SLOW process.
56 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-29 00:12:45
Answer/Reply:
I have just recently started taking Bupropion XL 300mg (Wellbutrin generic) and have been having restless legs and foot and ankle cramps. Is this a related side effect?
I would love to know if you got many replies to this especially concerning the foot cramps. I have been on Wellbutrin XL too for quite some time, and can't seem to get an answer as to why I suffer from so many painful foot cramps.
Sincerely,
Susan
56 year old Female
Posted: 2009-06-20 10:52:33
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Less than 1% of iGuard members report pain associated with taking bupropion XL. According to the prescribing information, 2% of patients taking bupropion XL report pain and up to 6% of patients report muscle-related pain, which could account for your foot cramps. If your symptoms are not improving or are getting worse, please make an appointment to discuss them with your physician.
Posted: 2009-06-22 18:09:51
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking this med for about 6 months and have not have restless legs or cramps. You are exactly right about not cutting XL tablets in half. I opted to take a 150 mg 2 x a day instead of the XL. I couldn't sleep with the XL. Hope you feel better soon.
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-07-11 23:23:36
Question/Comment:
I take Wellbutrin XL 300 mgs - can you tell me if there is a difference between brand and generic - the cost is enormous - but want to know if the generic lacks slow release?
64 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-03 17:59:31
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Buproprion extended-release (XL) is the generic version of Wellbutrin XL. Wellbutrin XL and Bupropion XL are AB-rated generic equivalent, which means they are interchangeable. However, it is up to the individual doctor's prescribing preference to allow for substitution. You can follow up with your pharmacist or doctor to see if your doctor has allowed the generic version to be substituted for you.
Posted: 2009-04-08 00:30:31
Answer/Reply:
Not that I have noticed. They are the same, and have had the same effects with me.
Now on cost her is how I have gotten around my insurance company... Not on purpose...
My dr. perscribed me Wellbutrin, same as yourself, My insurance company wanted $22. Co-pay, when I refused, I asked for a generic, it was only $3. I would try the generic. Alot of times it's all in your mindset. Postive thinking helps alot...
Hope this helped you!
33 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-08 12:04:45
Answer/Reply:
I have a problem with a chemical depression - Major depression - 2 or more episodes, I believe it is. I have taken Wellbutrin XL for however long it has been on the market in the US. One time my pharmacy took it on themselves to give me the generic which I did not notice when I picked it up as at the time the generic cost as much as the brand name. After about a week, I started having symptoms which I had not had for a very very long time, then decided to look at my bottle and - sure enough, it was the generic. I called my pharmacy and they said all I had to do was tell them that it was always to be filled with brand name - I didn't even have to call my doctor and get him to tell them that. When I did see my doctor, he went ballistic and told me NEVER to take the generic of this particular medication, that there are lots of cases of it not working. All has been well ever since! I have absolutely NO symptoms as long as I have Wellbutrin XL. It has been a miracle drug for me.
66 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-28 17:40:05
Question/Comment:
I have been on Wellbutrin XL(generic version) for 3 weeks now. I have been getting terrible muscle pains and have noticed an onset of Vertigo. I had Vertigo in the past but never this intense. Could the Wellbutrin be causing this? I have tried almost every AD on the market and nothing seems to help(treatment resistant). I can actually say the Wellbutrin seems to be helping slightly with my mood and anxiety. I don't want to give up on the med. but I don't know how long I can tolerate the points in my joints & muscles. Do you think this will eventually subside?
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-26 17:11:38
Answer/Reply:
If you haven't tried Cymbalta, ask your physician about it. I'm on Wellbutrin now and it works better for my depression than almost any other drug I've taken. When I did take Cymbalta, it worked great, not only on my depression but on my very aching joints (osteoarthritis). However, Cymbalta only worked for about 2 months for me and then quit working but it was great while it lasted.
69 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-27 15:51:10
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Both muscle pain and vertigo are infrequent but possible side effects of Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) - less than 1% of iGuard members taking bupropion have reported dizziness (vertigo) or muscle pain. For some people, these side effects may improve after you have taken the medication for a period of time and your body has gotten used to it, but it is not always the case. If these symptoms continue or become intolerable, it is a good idea to follow up with your doctor.
Posted: 2009-04-03 14:04:39
Answer/Reply:
Watch "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne... It's an amazing video.. This has helped me in so many ways... it gives you a new perspective on life itself.
33 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-08 12:07:15
Answer/Reply:
I find symptoms vary from person to person. No, I'm not a "professional" in any field of medicine; but I know several people taking Wellbutrin XL - also generic - as well as myself. My experience has been with the side effect of dizziness. It took doctor(s) & myself awhile to realize this as I have a whole list of balance-related problems already. My least 'serious' is a positional type vertigo so already having dizziness it was not all that noticeable. It wasn't until I realized it was much "worse" than normal for me that it was attributed to the scrip..... I had the problem as well while
taking the "brand name". As I say, every person taking this drug is prone to any of the myriad list of side effects. I cope with the vertigo issues rather than deal with the major problems I had before Wellbutrin. I hope this is a help to you.
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-19 13:16:05
Question/Comment:
I'm a 45 year old female and I take a cocktail of medications also for my depression and anxiety. Wellbutrin SR 500mg two tabs once a day along with my other meds seems to work fine for me. I've been on these meds for more than 10+ years. I'm hoping that I can stop taking some of them real soon. For those of you who are having problems, be careful and be safe. God bless you all.
46 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-17 22:27:53
Answer/Reply:
Hi I read your message regarding Wellbutrin. I've been taking 150 on/off, however, I don't know if its really working. I also heard that it can increase the chance of seizures at high doses. Do you know that? Do you also feel that your memory is not so good on it?
julie
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-18 15:50:42
Answer/Reply:
After years and years of different meds for depression and anxity, my recent experience with wellbutrin was exactly the OPPOSITE of what it does for most: I became more anxious, jittery,whack-ed out. Had to discontinue.............It is never easy having dysthymia, as I continually think 'whatever the problem is, it's in my head' LITERALLY!
59 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-15 18:18:21
Answer/Reply:
maybe thats, why i can't remember, i used 2 have a great memory, but know i remember like a goldfish, i mean in mts!! i take 450mgs of wellbutrin a day for several years.
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-17 13:50:13
Question/Comment:
I have been taking Welbutrin for anxiety for about 2 years now and also Clonazopam for sleep. I am concerned about all this talk about seizures. Also, I have tried to get off of the Clonazopam and found that my sleeping problems come right back. Am I stuck with these drugs forever?
46 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-15 16:02:07
Question/Comment:
I take wellbutrin xl, I used to take the generic and hated it because it would make me crash around 1:00 p.m. until I took the second dose for the day, I have to take something for libido since I take other meds for hypertension and am premenopausal & losing my hormones.The name brand works better for me even though it cost 2 or 3 times more than the generic.I also take herbs & go to the gym, believe me, exercise does wonders for the mind.
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-13 11:34:01
Question/Comment:
I have a question about (generic budeprion-sr & bupropion-xl) booth of them being wellbutrin but the generic kind. I tried both of these meds & the first day taking the first one i sleep for 3 days, My body felt so heavy, I couldn't move my body, My mind wasn't thinking right, I was in a daze. So i tried the BUPROPION-XL & it did the same thing to me. I have a 9yrs old daughter to raise, I can't stay in bed like that. I felt like i was dope up on all kinds of drugs & like i had been drinking or something. I don't like that. My dad said just the WELLBUTRIN mad him feel like he was on speed. I just wanted to know if wellbutrin did this to anybody else, Also was told that maybe it was the generic kind that this to me. i've never tried the name brand. I've tried Zoloft in the past didn't help, celexa made me mean, Then i went to the Budeprion-sr & bupropion-xl & had those problems. Any help please,THANKS in advance, Fairy_gurl419@yahoo.com
30 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-08 05:42:13
Answer/Reply:
My shrink explained that sometimes your brain is so low on the chemicals it needs, that you "crash" when you start taking a medicine, because your brain needs it so much. Wellbutrin made me feel better and more awake immediately, but it made my girlfriend sleep like a zombie, just like you - everyone's brain chemistry is different, so I advise a lot of patients with meds. If you get too sleepy or have some other minor side effect, take less, until the side effect seems to be less, and then get back to your doctor's suggested dose.
I came off 7 years of Effexor reallly slowwwwly, and switched to Wellbutrin while I came off Effexor. After 2 weeks with just Wellbutrin, my anxiety (that I hadn't felt in 10 years or so, came back really strong - so my shrink added buspar, and now I take 400 mg of generic wellbutrin (200 in the a.m. with 15mg of buspar generic, 200 wellbutrin at about 2pm, and 15 mg of buspar at bedtime). At first I was still a bit anxious, so we increased the buspar to 60, but it made it worse - go figure! - so now I'm back to 30mg a day.
Be patient. I've been on various anti-depressants for 13 years, and Wellbutrin FINALLY took the fatigue away - I could just about go to work, but after 6pm, I was useless, and I napped all the time - even at work at lunchtime. My life revolved around naps for 13 years or more. I've only had 2 naps in 4 months since I started Wellbutrin - it's been a miracle - and I'm not hyper, just focused. I used to have this exhausted feeling in the back of my head - now I can feel the front of my brain, cranking along, and even when I'm sleepy, I can still function. Keep trying, don't give up - the solution is just around the corner.
BTW, wellbutrin is one of the few antidepressants that affects dopamine - apparently that's what I needed, because all the others I was on (Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac, and Effexor) always made me tired.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-09 16:53:15
Answer/Reply:
OMG!! I thought I was the only one that anti-depressants did that to. When I was first put on an antidepressant, 8 yrs ago, I took Prozac. For the first year or so all was well as far as being able to focus, and not be fatigued. Then it didn't work so well. I then tried Paxil, then Celexa and still didn't respond well. I've been on wellbutrin now for 6 months and I swear that it works the best for me then any other. I will have to admitt that the first week to 10 days were difficult at best, but now so well worth working thru that. The upside is I no longer smoke either so in my opinion, it is a win win situation. Hopefully I will be able to take this very long term.
47 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-12 20:17:03
Answer/Reply:
I found your comments about napping very familiar. Have you ever had a sleep study? I did. and they found out that I had to take all those naps and that Wellbutrin helped me so much because I have a form of narcolepsy. My sleep cycles are all messed up. My body does not go into the stages where the body does its resting. I ahve been diagnosed with depression since I was in my 20's and now they tell me it was probably this all along. The welbutrin helps because it depresses the dream stage. This is what makes me feel as if I have more energy throughout the day. Eventhough I take the med during the day. I used to have to nap multiple times per day. If i went to a store then I would have to come haom and take a nap before I could do anything else. And forget about watching TV. If I sat down fo more than 5 min then I was asleep. If you have not had a sleep study my I suggest you ask about one. It may be well worth it.
38 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-19 03:30:00
Answer/Reply:
I TAKE BUPROPION SR 150MG. AND LEXAPRO 20MG. IT REALLY DOES THE JOB FOR ME KEEPS ME FROM BEING AWFUL AND KEEPS ME CALM. TOOK THE WELLBUTRINXL WAS TO EXPENSIVE AND MADE ME TOO SLLEEPLY TO FUNCITION.HAVE TRIED THR BUPROPION XL.AM ON DRUG PROGRAM FOR NO INSURANCE AND HAVE RO SOME TIME EXCEPT WHAT AM GIVEN. I CAN'T FUNCTION WITHOUT THESE MEDS.
62 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-17 23:05:37
Answer/Reply:
I USED TO TAKE THE GENERIC FORM OF WELLBUTRIN XL 150MG. ALSO KNOWN AS BUPROPION AND BUDEPRION. I DIDN'T LIKE THE WAY THEY MADE ME FEEL AT ALL. NOW I TAKE THE NAME BRAND WELLBUTRIN XL 150 MG. IT MAKES MY DEPRESSION STAY IN CHECK BUT IF I HAD TO TAKE GENERIC WELLBUTRIN, I WOULDN'T BECAUSE SOME GENERICS JUST ARE NOT THE SAME AS BRAND NAME. AND AS FAR AS COST, SOMETIMES IF YOU CALL THE MANUFACTURER OF THE DRUG, YOU CAN GET IT AT LOW COST AND SOMETIMES FREE. GOOD LUCK TO YOU AND GOOD HEALTH AS WELL.
47 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-24 18:42:42
Answer/Reply:
I had a similar experience but I slept for weeks and just couldn't make myself move. What I discovered that my Dr. didn't realize is that the Wellbutrin is given to smokers to stop smoking. In my case I stopped eating and my blood sugar dropped to 36. I was almost in a diabetic shock when it hit me that something else was going on. Once I realized this the Dr. still said that wasn't the problem, I started making myself eat regularly and I have more energy and feel better now than ever. But even now if I get to moving to much and forget to eat, I will feel the need for a nap then I try to remember when I ate and it usually is the culprit. Hope this helpsyou. I had a glucometer that had been my mothers, so you might try finding an inexpensive one to check yourself.
49 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-01 11:44:41
Answer/Reply:
Are you getting your Rx from a Psychiatrist? If so, you should be discussing these symptons with your doctor so that they can find the right medicine for you. I have been on wellbutrin for over 10 years and have had no issues with it but everyone is different in how they react to different medicines. Although I had no major side effect issues with Wellbutrin, it was not enough to help my depression. I tried Cymbalta, but it made me feel like you feel on the Wellbutrin. So I switched to Lexapro. So now I take both Wellbutrin and Lexapro and they work great together. Best I've felt in years. Your doctor should be working to find the right medicine for you. If you feel you're not getting this from your doctor you might try someone else. Good luck - I hope you find something that works for you.
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-02 13:03:37
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