Wellbutrin, which is also sold under the generic name bupropion, is a drug that is often recommended to treat depression and, sometimes, to help people quit smoking. Even though it can help treat these conditions very well, stopping can cause withdrawal effects of Wellbutrin. Anyone who is thinking about stopping the medication needs to know about these signs and how to deal with them.
Understanding Wellbutrin Withdrawal
When you take Wellbutrin, it helps boost certain chemicals in your brain that control your mood and energy. Over time, your brain gets used to having Wellbutrin around to help keep these chemicals balanced. But when you suddenly stop taking it, your brain doesn’t have that extra support anymore, and it can take a while to adjust.
This sudden drop in those feel-good chemicals can cause withdrawal symptoms. It’s like if you were used to drinking coffee every morning and then stopped cold turkey—you’d probably feel pretty lousy for a while. With Wellbutrin, those symptoms might include feeling anxious, irritable, or having trouble sleeping. Your brain needs time to get back to balancing those chemicals on its own.
That’s why quitting Wellbutrin can be tough. Going slow and having help from a doctor can make the process a lot smoother, keeping those withdrawal symptoms from hitting too hard.
Next Steps
If you’re struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At Casa Capri, we offer expert, women-centered care in a supportive and nurturing space—designed by women, for women. Our team is here to help you heal with purpose and connection.
Call our admissions team for a free, confidential chat—we’ll even check your insurance and estimate any costs upfront.
Why Would You Want to Quit Taking Wellbutrin?
There are a few reasons why someone might want to quit taking Wellbutrin. For some people, the medication might have done its job, helping them manage depression or anxiety, and now they feel ready to move forward without it. Others might want to stop because they’re experiencing side effects, like headaches, weight changes, or trouble sleeping, that make taking Wellbutrin uncomfortable.
In some cases, a person’s mental health needs may have changed, and their doctor might suggest switching to a different medication. Or, they might want to try managing their mental health in other ways, like through therapy, lifestyle changes, or natural remedies.
Whatever the reason, quitting Wellbutrin is a personal decision that should be made carefully and with the help of a healthcare professional. It’s important to consider both the benefits and the potential challenges, including the possibility of withdrawal symptoms, before making the choice to stop.
Common Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms
Individual differences exist in the severity and length of withdrawal symptoms. Some people may have less pain, while others can have a much more difficult time dealing with the symptoms.
Physical Symptoms
- Headaches: One of the most common physical symptoms is headaches, which can range from mild to severe.
- Fatigue: A feeling of extreme tiredness and lack of energy is also typical.
- Dizziness: Many individuals report feeling lightheaded or dizzy during withdrawal.
- Flu-like Symptoms: These can include muscle aches, sweating, and chills.
Psychological Symptoms
- Mood Swings: Abrupt changes in mood, including irritability, anxiety, and depression, are common.
- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns often occur.
- Cognitive Issues: Some people experience brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems.
How Long Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Last?
So many factors go into how long Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms last, such as the dosage, how long the person took the drug and their general health.
Typical Duration
Most people have symptoms of Wellbutrin withdrawal a few days after stopping the medicine. These symptoms can range from a few days to many weeks.
Factors Influencing Duration
- Dosage: Higher doses of Wellbutrin may result in a longer withdrawal period.
- Duration of Use: Long-term use of Wellbutrin can lead to more prolonged withdrawal symptoms.
- Individual Differences: Each person’s body reacts differently to the discontinuation of medication, impacting the length and intensity of withdrawal.
Wellbutrin Withdrawal Timeline
Understanding the general Wellbutrin withdrawal timeline can help prepare for what to expect.
Initial Phase (First Few Days)
- Onset of Symptoms: Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms typically start within the first 24-72 hours after the last dose.
- Physical Discomfort: Headaches, dizziness, and flu-like symptoms are common during this phase.
- Mood Changes: Initial mood swings and irritability can occur.
Peak Phase (First Week)
- Intensity of Symptoms: Symptoms often peak during the first week. This is when physical and psychological symptoms may be most intense.
- Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia and changes in sleep patterns are prevalent.
Subside Phase (Second to Third Week)
- Reduction of Symptoms: Many symptoms start to diminish in intensity. Physical symptoms, such as headaches and fatigue, often begin to improve.
- Mood Stabilization: Mood swings and irritability may start to stabilize.
Resolution Phase (Fourth Week and Beyond)
- Minimal Symptoms: For many, most withdrawal symptoms from Wellbutrin have significantly decreased or resolved entirely by the end of the fourth week.
- Lingering Effects: Some individuals may experience lingering psychological effects, such as mild anxiety or mood fluctuations, for a few more weeks.
Next Steps
If you’re struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At Casa Capri, we offer expert, women-centered care in a supportive and nurturing space—designed by women, for women. Our team is here to help you heal with purpose and connection.
Call our admissions team for a free, confidential chat—we’ll even check your insurance and estimate any costs upfront.
Managing Wellbutrin Withdrawal
To successfully handle withdrawal, you need to know how it works and take steps to ease the signs. Don’t be shy about seeing the help of a medical professional.
- Tapering Off: Instead of stopping Wellbutrin all of a sudden, lowering the dose slowly can help lessen the signs of withdrawal. Your doctor will make a tapering plan just for you based on your needs.
- Staying Hydrated and Eating Well: Getting enough water and eating a healthy diet can help your body through detox. Some physical complaints can be eased by keeping hydrated and eating healthy.
- Regular Exercise: Being active can make you feel better and give you more energy. While you are in withdrawal, even light workouts like yoga or walking can help.
- Support Systems: Having a network of people who can help can make a big difference. Seek out support groups that know what you’re going through, or talk to a friend or family member who can help you feel better.
When to Seek Medical Help for Wellbutrin Withdrawal
Getting off Wellbutrin can be challenging, primarily due to the withdrawal symptoms that can arise when the medication is stopped abruptly or even tapered too quickly. Your body and brain, which have adjusted to the presence of Wellbutrin, can struggle to find balance when the medication is removed. This can lead to serious discomfort and emotional distress.
Because of these potential challenges, you can undergo Wellbutrin withdrawal under the supervision of a healthcare professional at a rehab facility like ours. In a controlled environment, our medical staff can monitor your symptoms and adjust your tapering schedule as needed to minimize discomfort. Additionally, we can provide emotional support and other resources to help manage cravings and prevent relapse. With professional guidance, the withdrawal process can be safer and more manageable, reducing the risk of severe symptoms or other complications. Ready to get help? Reach out to our team today to reclaim your life.
Next Steps
If you’re struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At Casa Capri, we offer expert, women-centered care in a supportive and nurturing space—designed by women, for women. Our team is here to help you heal with purpose and connection.
Call our admissions team for a free, confidential chat—we’ll even check your insurance and estimate any costs upfront.
FAQs About Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms
Can Wellbutrin Withdrawal Cause Weight Changes?
Yes, some people may gain or lose weight while they are coming off of Wellbutrin. Weight gain or loss can happen because of changes in metabolism and appetite.
Can Wellbutrin Withdrawal Cause Digestive Issues?
You may have stomach problems like sickness, vomiting, or diarrhea while you’re coming off of Wellbutrin. Typically, these symptoms tend to resolve naturally as your body adjusts.
Are There Any Natural Remedies to Help With Withdrawal Symptoms?
Herbal teas (like chamomile or ginger tea) and other natural remedies may help ease signs like pain or sickness. Before using any natural treatments, you should always talk do your research, and check in with your doctor.
Can Wellbutrin Withdrawal Trigger Relapses in Depression or Anxiety?
Coming off of Wellbutrin can cause depression or anxiety feelings to come back. Keep a close eye on your mental health and get help from a healthcare source if you notice that your symptoms are getting a lot worse.
What Role Does Sleep Play in Managing Withdrawal Symptoms?
Getting enough sleep is super important for dealing with Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms. Not getting enough sleep can make signs worse, like being irritable, tired, or having trouble thinking. Setting up a normal sleep schedule and creating a relaxing place to sleep can help you sleep better during withdrawal.
How Can I Support My Mental Health During Wellbutrin Withdrawal?
Getting regular exercise, practicing mindfulness and relaxation methods, staying in touch with friends and family, and getting help from a therapist or counselor can all help your mental health during Wellbutrin withdrawal.
