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Anxiety may seem overwhelming and have an impact on many aspects of your life. Fortunately, certain therapies may reduce anxiety symptoms and improve overall well-being. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is one such option.
Wellbutrin was originally designed to treat severe depressive illness, but it has also been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders. Its method of action makes it a useful anxiety-management tool. Wellbutrin improves mood control and decreases anxiety symptoms by targeting certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
In this detailed article, we will look at how Wellbutrin affects anxiety. The information below will help you have an educated discussion with your healthcare professional.
How does Wellbutrin Work?
Wellbutrin’s specific mechanism of action is not well known. It is thought to function by decreasing[1*] the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, leading to higher levels of these neurotransmitters. Wellbutrin improves mood, motivation, and general brain activity by boosting the availability of the aforementioned neurotransmitters.
Wellbutrin, unlike many other antidepressants, does not normally impact serotonin levels, making it a popular therapy choice for those who cannot tolerate or react well to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
What is the link between wellbutrin and anxiety?
There are several ways in which drugs might affect a person. As a result, Wellbutrin has been associated with anxiety on occasion. Although it may cause anxiety in some, it is effective[2*] in treating anxiety problems in others.
Can Wellbutrin Be Used To Treat Anxiety?
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant medicine that is generally used to treat depression. However, it may also be used to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and to help people quit smoking. So, is bupropion effective for anxiety?
There is some evidence supporting the usefulness of Wellbutrin (bupropion) for anxiety. An prior pilot research[3*] found bupropion equivalent to escitalopram (an SSRI) in treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). While this suggests that Wellbutrin might be used as a second or third-line therapy for GAD, bigger, more thorough studies are needed to validate its efficacy.
Can Wellbutrin cause anxiety?
Some patients may have anxiety symptoms shortly after taking Wellbutrin, including restlessness, excitation, agitation, and shaking. The FDA[4*] reports that during clinical studies, individuals may have severe symptoms that need sedative or anti-anxiety medicine. A modest fraction of individuals (2%) discontinued Wellbutrin due to anxiety-related adverse effects. It’s conceivable that these side effects are caused by taking too much Wellbutrin or increasing it too quickly. If you have jitters or other anxiety symptoms after beginning Wellbutrin, see your doctor.
What Are the Benefits of Wellbutrin?
Although Wellbutrin (bupropion) is more typically used to treat depression than anxiety disorders, some individuals who take it for anxiety disorders may see alleviation from their symptoms. The following are some potential benefits of Wellbutrin for anxiety:
It is crucial to remember that individual reactions to medicine might vary, and the efficacy of Wellbutrin for anxiety symptoms varies from person to person.
Side Effects Of Wellbutrin
While most individuals handle Wellbutrin well, it, like any other medicine, might produce negative effects in certain patients. Some common adverse effects of Wellbutrin include:
How Can I Avoid Wellbutrin Side Effects?
Here are some guidelines that may help you reduce possible side effects if you are presently using Wellbutrin (bupropion) or are considering beginning anxiety medications:
If you encounter any troublesome or persistent adverse effects while taking Wellbutrin, notify your doctor right away.
5 Myths about Wellbutrin
There are a few myths and misunderstandings concerning Wellbutrin (bupropion) that should be clarified.
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, Wellbutrin has been shown to boost energy[6*] levels in many individuals. It is often favored over other antidepressants since it does not usually produce drowsiness or exhaustion.
Fact: Although Wellbutrin is widely prescribed for depression, it is also authorized for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and as part of a smoking cessation program. It may be used off-label to treat diseases such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or anxiety disorders.
Fact: Wellbutrin is not considered addictive. It is not classed as a restricted drug, unlike several other pharmaceuticals used to treat mental illnesses.
Fact: Weight loss is a possible adverse effect of Wellbutrin, although it is not guaranteed.
Seizures are a possible adverse effect of Wellbutrin, however they happen seldom. The risk of seizures increases with greater dosages (over 450 mg per day), and those with particular medical problems, such as a history of seizures or eating disorders, may be especially vulnerable.
Who should use Wellbutrin to treat anxiety?
Only a healthcare practitioner can assess if Wellbutrin is right for you. However, in rare cases, a healthcare provider may consider prescription Wellbutrin for anxiety. For example:
When Shouldn’t Wellbutrin Be Used to Treat Anxiety?
In the following cases, Wellbutrin (bupropion) may not be the best solution for managing anxiety:
Alternative Treatments For Anxiety
In addition to medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications may help to alleviate anxiety symptoms. Here are a few choices:
Before considering any alternative therapies, consult with a healthcare expert to ensure that they are suitable for your specific circumstances.
When Should You Talk to Your Doctor?
It is important to consult with your healthcare professional if you are experiencing severe anxiety symptoms, physical health issues connected to anxiety, difficulty functioning in everyday life, or concerns about your safety. Seek expert help if you want an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including prescription medications.
Does bupropion improve or worsen anxiety?
Although bupropion (Wellbutrin) is often used for depression, it may also be used to treat anxiety disorders. Bupropion’s effects on anxiety vary from person to person. While some individuals find that bupropion relieves their anxiety symptoms, others may notice that the medicine causes an increase in anxiety. To determine the best course of action, notify your doctor if your anxiety symptoms change.
How much Wellbutrin can you take to treat anxiety?
The recommended dose of Wellbutrin for anxiety might vary depending on a person’s specific circumstances, such as medical history, reaction to the drug, and other medicines utilized. Only a medical practitioner can decide the best dose for your specific needs.
How long does it take Wellbutrin to act against anxiety?
The time it takes for Wellbutrin to work in treating anxiety varies. While some individuals may see an improvement in their anxiety symptoms within a few weeks, others may need more time. To monitor the effectiveness of the drug, you must be patient and see your doctor on a frequent basis.
What kind of anxiety may Wellbutrin treat?
Wellbutrin may help treat both generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder (SAD). While Wellbutrin may assist with panic episodes, there is inadequate evidence[7*] to recommend it as a standard therapy for panic disorder. To choose the best course of therapy, consult with a medical practitioner about your anxiety symptoms.
Is Wellbutrin more effective than Zoloft for anxiety?
The best person to compare Wellbutrin to Zoloft (sertraline) for anxiety in your specific instance is a healthcare specialist who can assess your requirements. Wellbutrin is an atypical antidepressant, while Zoloft is an SSRI, hence the two medicines are classified differently. A variety of factors will influence their choice, including medical history, individual response, and potential adverse effects. They both function differently in the brain.
What does Wellbutrin-induced anxiety feel like?
Anxiety is a common adverse effect of Wellbutrin that affects various individuals. Some individuals may experience no stress at all, but others may become agitated, worried, or restless.
What is the duration of bupropion-related anxiety?
Bupropion-induced anxiety might last for an extended period of time. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the symptoms may resolve on their own within a few weeks. If your anxiety symptoms worsen or continue, you should visit your doctor for a thorough assessment and advice.