Wellbutrin Withdrawal: Signs, Symptoms, & Timeline

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a medication often prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, and to help people quit smoking. While it can be highly effective, the side effects of stopping Wellbutrin – especially without medical guidance – can include uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can range from mood swings and sleep disturbances to digestive issues and even brain zaps. [1] 

This page explores what to expect during withdrawal from Wellbutrin, how long symptoms might last, and ways to manage Wellbutrin discontinuation. You will also learn how to get effective and compassionate treatment for prescription drug addiction.

What Is Wellbutrin Withdrawal?

Bupropion, commonly marketed as Wellbutrin, is used to treat depression and help people stop smoking. [2] Like many medications, your body can become used to Wellbutrin over time. Stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey or reducing your dosage too quickly, you might experience withdrawal symptoms. This happens because your brain and body have adjusted to the medication’s effects, and when it’s no longer present, they need time to readjust. 

Unlike some other antidepressants, Wellbutrin doesn’t usually cause severe withdrawal symptoms. This is because it works on dopamine and norepinephrine rather than serotonin, which is targeted by many other antidepressants. That doesn’t mean stopping Wellbutrin is always easy, though. Always talk to your doctor before stopping the medication so they can guide you on how to wean off Wellbutrin safely.

What Are the Most Common Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms?

Most people don’t experience major withdrawal symptoms when stopping Wellbutrin, but some individuals may notice changes in how they feel. Withdrawal symptoms happen because the brain is trying to balance the chemicals that Wellbutrin was regulating. These symptoms can vary from person to person but are usually mild compared to other antidepressants. Here are some common withdrawal symptoms:

• Excessive sweating: You might sweat more than usual, even in cooler temperatures.
• Digestive problems: Bupropion withdrawal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea may occur as your digestive system adjusts.
• Sleep disturbances: Many people cannot fall asleep or stay asleep when taking Wellbutrin. Some may experience vivid or unusual dreams.
• Mood swings: Irritability, anxiety, or feelings of depression can sometimes arise when Wellbutrin is stopped.
• Shakiness and restlessness: Some people feel shaky or notice their legs become restless.
• Brain zaps: Some people report sensations like mini electric shocks in the head. While this Wellbutrin withdrawal side effect is not dangerous, it can feel strange or unsettling.

These symptoms usually present within the first few days after stopping Wellbutrin and can last 2 weeks. However, not everyone will experience these effects, and the symptoms are manageable. If symptoms become uncomfortable, reach out to a healthcare provider for support.

What are the Symptoms of a Wellbutrin Missed Dose?

Missing a dose of Wellbutrin may trigger some mild symptoms, even if you take your next dose on time. This happens because the medication’s levels in your body drop when you miss a dose, leading to physical and emotional changes. Here are some common symptoms that may occur if you forget to take your Wellbutrin:

• Mood changes: You may feel irritable and anxious, even after missing just one dose.
• Fatigue: Missing a dose can leave you feeling more tired or low on energy.
• Headaches: It’s common for some people to experience headaches when a dose is missed.
• Difficulty concentrating: You might notice it’s hard to focus or think.

If you miss a Wellbutrin dose, the best approach is to take the next scheduled dose at the regular time. Avoid doubling up to make up for the missed pill, as this can cause side effects. Consult your physician if you’re unsure what to do or experience any symptoms. Keeping a consistent medication routine can help minimize these symptoms and maintain your mental health balance.

How Long Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Last?

You may notice mild symptoms like irritability, headaches, or trouble sleeping during the first few days after your last dose. Some people also experience digestive issues like nausea. These symptoms are usually manageable but can be uncomfortable. Here is a typical bupropion withdrawal timeline: 

• Week 1: As the first week progresses, symptoms may become more noticeable. You might experience increased sweating, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping. Digestive problems like nausea or diarrhea may also intensify. This is the peak of withdrawal symptoms for most people.
• Weeks 1 to 2: During this time, symptoms often peak. It’s common to feel irritable, have trouble sleeping, or experience brain zaps. Digestive issues like nausea or vomiting can still be present. While this is the most challenging period, the symptoms will fade soon.
• Weeks 2 to 4: Around the two-week mark, most people notice that their symptoms begin to ease. Mood swings become less frequent, while sleep and digestive issues improve. By the end of the fourth week, many people feel that their withdrawal symptoms are mostly gone, though some may still experience occasional mood changes or trouble sleeping.
• After 1 month: Withdrawal symptoms should be mostly gone after a month. Some lingering issues, such as mild mood swings or occasional sleep disturbances, may persist, but these should continue to improve over time. If symptoms persist or worsen, check in with your doctor.

While this timeline is a general guide, your withdrawal symptoms might be shorter or longer depending on factors like how long you’ve been taking Wellbutrin and whether you tapered off the medication or stopped suddenly. Always follow your doctor’s advice when discontinuing Wellbutrin to ensure the safest and smoothest process. 

How to Stop Using Wellbutrin

Stopping Wellbutrin should be done carefully to avoid any unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. The best way to do this is by slowly reducing, or tapering, the amount you take instead of quitting all at once. [3] This allows your body to adjust to lower levels of the medication over time, reducing the chance of uncomfortable symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, or trouble sleeping.

Your doctor will guide you on how to taper off Wellbutrin based on your specific situation. They will likely suggest a tapering schedule that gradually lowers your dose over a few weeks. Never stop Wellbutrin on your own without talking to your doctor, as this can lead to more severe withdrawal symptoms. A medical professional will streamline the process.

Wellbutrin Half-Life

The half-life of a medication refers to how long it takes half of the drug to leave your body. For Wellbutrin, this half-life is relatively short – around 21 hours when taken regularly. This means that after about a day, half of the Wellbutrin in your system is gone, which is why it’s normally taken once or twice a day. However, because the half-life is shorter than some other antidepressants, withdrawal symptoms can appear quickly after missing a dose or stopping the medication.

The short half-life of Wellbutrin is one reason why tapering is important. Since the drug leaves your system quickly, stopping abruptly can lead to a sudden change in brain chemistry, causing withdrawal symptoms like irritability, headaches, or trouble sleeping.

Wellbutrin Tapering Schedule

A tapering schedule is designed to help you gradually reduce your dose of Wellbutrin over time. This allows your body to get used to lower levels of the medication and reduces the chance of withdrawal symptoms. A typical tapering plan for Wellbutrin lasts about 1 to 2 weeks, though it can be longer depending on how long you’ve been taking the medication and at what dose.

If you take high doses of Wellbutrin, your doctor may suggest reducing the amount by small increments every few days or weeks. This gradual reduction gives your body time to adjust without causing a sudden shock to your system. Following a tapering schedule is the safest way to stop Wellbutrin while avoiding or minimizing withdrawal symptoms.

Tapering off Wellbutrin XL 150mg

If you take Wellbutrin XL 150mg, your doctor will create a specific tapering plan. Here’s an example of what a prescribed tapering schedule for Wellbutrin XL 150mg might look like:

• Week 1: Reduce the dose to 150mg on alternate days. This starts the process of gradually weaning your body off the medication.
• Week 2: Take 150mg every 3 days. This further lowers the medication in your system without causing a sudden drop.
• Week 3: You may stop taking the medication if your doctor feels it’s safe.

This schedule helps your body adjust over time, reducing the chance of strong withdrawal symptoms like mood swings, brain zaps, or trouble sleeping. Stick to the plan and do not rush the process, even if you feel fine. Tapering too quickly can cause unpleasant side effects, so follow medical advice closely.

What Happens When You Quit Cold Turkey?

Stopping Wellbutrin suddenly – going cold turkey – is not recommended. When you stop the medication abruptly, your brain doesn’t have time to adjust to the changes in dopamine and norepinephrine levels. This sudden change can lead to a range of uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Mood swings: You may feel more irritable, anxious, or depressed.
• Headaches: Some people experience severe headaches or migraines.
• Digestive problems: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur.
• Trouble sleeping: You might have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, or you may experience vivid dreams.
• Brain zaps: These feel like small electric shocks in your head and can be startling.

Quitting cold turkey can worsen these symptoms, and they can last longer than if you had tapered off slowly. If you want to stop Wellbutrin, always work with your doctor to develop a safe plan. They will assist you in tapering off the medication gradually to avoid the negative effects of stopping too quickly. 

When Should You Get Help for Wellbutrin Withdrawal?

While most people can manage Wellbutrin withdrawal on their own with the right guidance, there are times when seeking medical help is necessary. If you experience any of the following symptoms while tapering off or stopping Wellbutrin, reach out to your doctor immediately: 

• Severe mood changes: If you feel extreme depression, anxiety, or irritability that is hard to control, talk to a healthcare professional.
• Suicidal thoughts: If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek help right away. This is a medical emergency, and support is available.
• Intense withdrawal symptoms: If your symptoms are strong or don’t improve after a few weeks, contact your doctor. They may adjust your tapering plan or suggest ways to streamline the process.
• Difficulty functioning: If withdrawal symptoms are making it hard to go about your daily life, such as struggling to work or take care of yourself, this is a sign to seek additional help.

Recognizing when you need help can prevent symptoms from becoming overwhelming. Your doctor is there to guide you through this process, and you don’t have to manage it alone.

How to Prevent Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms 

The best way to avoid uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms is to prevent them before they start. Here are some strategies that can help minimize symptoms when you stop Wellbutrin: 

• Follow a tapering plan: The most important thing you can do is follow your doctor’s tapering schedule. Slowly reducing your dose gives your body time to adjust and makes withdrawal much easier.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out the medication from your system and reduce some physical symptoms, like headaches or dizziness.
• Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet can stabilize your energy levels and manage digestive issues. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your meals.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity is a great way to manage stress and boost your mood. Even light exercise, like walking or stretching, can make a big difference.
• Maintain a sleep routine: Sticking to a sleep schedule can help prevent insomnia and improve your overall well-being. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.

By using these preventive measures, you can reduce the chance of experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms and make the process of stopping Wellbutrin much smoother.

Coping With Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms

Even with preventive steps, some withdrawal symptoms may still occur. Fortunately, there are many ways to cope with these symptoms and make them easier to manage:

• Stay connected with loved ones: Sharing feelings with friends or family can provide emotional support during withdrawal. You don’t have to go through this alone – talking to others can help you feel understood and cared for.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety. [4] These practices can be helpful if you’re experiencing mood swings or restlessness.
• Stick to a healthy routine: Eat regular meals, focus on sleep quality, and stay active. A structured routine can help stabilize your mood and energy levels.
• Manage sleep issues: Create a calming bedtime routine. Avoid using electronic devices before bed, keep your room quiet and dark, and try relaxing activities like reading or listening to soft music.
• Address headaches: If you experience headaches during withdrawal, rest in a quiet, dark room and try using a cold compress. Ibuprofen or other OTC pain relievers can also help but check with your doctor before taking any new medications.
• Take care of digestive symptoms: If nausea or upset stomach is bothering you, eating smaller, more frequent meals can help. Ginger or peppermint tea may also soothe your stomach.

By using these coping strategies, you can manage withdrawal symptoms more effectively. If any symptoms become too difficult to handle, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for further advice.

Detox for Wellbutrin Withdrawal

In some cases, people may find it difficult to taper off Wellbutrin on their own, especially if they’ve been on the medication for a long time or have severe symptoms. A detox program can provide extra support and medical supervision to make the process easier and safer. Here are some detox options:

• Inpatient: Stay at a detox facility and receive clinical care and support around the clock. Inpatient detox is typically recommended for those with severe symptoms or who are at risk of complications. The controlled environment ensures constant care and monitoring.
• Outpatient: With outpatient detox, you visit a treatment center during the day but go home at night. This option works well for people with milder symptoms who don’t need around-the-clock care but still want professional support during withdrawal.
• Medication-assisted: In some cases, medications may be used to help manage withdrawal symptoms. For example, your doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medications or sleep aids to make the process safer and more comfortable. These are usually given as part of a supervised detox program, ensuring you take them safely.

Whether you choose inpatient or outpatient care, having professional help during detox can make the experience more manageable and improve your chances of a successful recovery.

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Sources

[1 https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/what-are-brain-zaps/

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC314381/

[3] https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/how-to-taper-off-your-antidepressant

[4] https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/stress/relaxation-techniques-for-stress-relief