Wellbutrin (Bupropion) Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline

Wellbutrin is an antidepressant, prescribed mostly for major depressive disorder, and those trying to quit smoking. It is FDA-approved for both purposes and may also be used off-label to treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), bipolar disorder, and SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). 

The active ingredient in Wellbutrin is bupropion. The drug is available in immediate-release and extended-release (XL) forms.

At Avenues Recovery, we help individuals understand and safely navigate their use of medications like Wellbutrin, especially during tapering or withdrawal.

What is Wellbutrin Withdrawal?

Wellbutrin withdrawal happens when someone stops taking Wellbutrin (bupropion), especially if done suddenly. This can lead to a range of physical and psychological symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, nausea, and brain zaps. Withdrawal is more likely after long-term use or if someone has developed a Wellbutrin addiction, and it should always be managed under medical supervision.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Wellbutrin?

When you stop taking Wellbutrin XL, your brain and body need time to adjust to the absence of the medication, triggering withdrawal symptoms. Wellbutrin works by affecting norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Dopamine produces feelings of pleasure and reward, while norepinephrine increases alertness and energy. Abruptly stopping disrupts this balance, which leads to a range of withdrawal symptoms.

What Is Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome?

Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome refers to the collection of physical and emotional symptoms that may occur in about 1 in 3 people stopping antidepressants like Wellbutrin (bupropion). As your body adapts, you might experience:

• Mood swings
• Sleep disturbances such as insomnia and nightmares
• Muscle aches
• Brain zaps (tingling or electric shock sensations)
• Anxiety and depressive symptoms

While Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms are usually milder than those from some other antidepressants, they can still be significant and uncomfortable.

Can You Stop Wellbutrin Cold Turkey?

Abruptly discontinuing Wellbutrin, or quitting cold turkey, can increase the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms, such as:

• Intense mood swings
• Trouble sleeping
• Suicidal thoughts (in rare cases)

Another danger of stopping Wellbutrin abruptly is the risk of misusing the medication again to relieve severe withdrawal symptoms, which can increase the chance of Wellbutrin overdose.

Instead, it's important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a tapering schedule, allowing your body to adapt and minimizing physical discomfort during the withdrawal process.

What Are the Side Effects of Stopping Wellbutrin?

Withdrawal symptoms from Wellbutrin (bupropion) can range from mild to severe. These symptoms can affect both the mind and body, and may appear within days of stopping the medication.

Common Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms:

• Mood swings
• Insomnia
• Nightmares
• Body aches
• Brain fog
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Tremors
• Sweating
• Anxiety or depression
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Restless legs
• Agitation
• Headache

Severe Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms

These symptoms are less common, but are potentially dangerous and require immediate medical attention:

• Self-harm
• Suicidal ideation
• Brain zaps (though more common in SSRI withdrawal)
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Severe tremors

When Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Start?

Wellbutrin withdrawal typically starts within 24 to 72 hours after the last dose. This is due to the medication’s half-life of about 21 hours, meaning Wellbutrin leaves your system quite quickly once you stop taking it.

The onset of symptoms will vary slightly depending on:

• Your dosage
• How long you’ve been on the medication
• Whether you tapered off or stopped abruptly
• Your individual metabolism and health status

How Long Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Last?

Wellbutrin (bupropion) withdrawal typically lasts anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Most people notice symptoms improving within 2 to 4 weeks, but the timeline can vary based on several factors, including:

• How long you’ve been taking Wellbutrin XL
• Your dosage
• Whether you tapered or stopped abruptly
• Your overall health and metabolism
• Presence of other medications or mental health conditions

Some individuals may experience lingering symptoms like insomnia or anxiety for a few months, especially if they stopped suddenly or were on a high dose.

Bupropion Withdrawal Timeline

The Wellbutrin (bupropion) withdrawal timeline can vary from person to person. Some people may recover faster, while others may have symptoms that persist beyond four weeks. Below is an overview of the average wellbutrin withdrawal experience:

What Helps With Wellbutrin Withdrawal?

The most effective way to ease Wellbutrin withdrawal is to taper off slowly under medical supervision, combined with mental health support and healthy lifestyle habits.

Here are the steps you should take:

1. Taper Slowly with Your Doctor
   Gradually reducing your dose of Wellbutrin XL helps your brain adjust and minimizes withdrawal symptoms.
2. Monitor Your Mental Health
   Regular check-ins with a therapist or doctor can help manage anxiety, mood swings, or depressive symptoms that may arise.
3. Practice Self-Care
   Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and keep a consistent sleep routine. Relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing can also help.
4. Build a Support Network
   Engage with support groups, therapy, or friends and family to help you through emotional challenges.
5. Consider Short-Term Medications if Needed
   Doctors may prescribe medications to relieve symptoms like insomnia or nausea during withdrawal.

How to Taper Off Wellbutrin

To taper off Wellbutrin XL safely, gradually reduce your dose over several weeks under your doctor’s guidance. Your healthcare provider will create a personalized tapering schedule based on your current dose, how long you’ve been taking Wellbutrin, and your overall health. This slow decrease helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and allows your brain to adjust.

What Are Treatment Options for Wellbutrin Withdrawal?

If you or a loved one is experiencing bupropion withdrawal or is dependent on Wellbutrin, there are several treatment paths available, including detox, inpatient treatment, and ongoing therapy and support groups.

Below are some of the most effective treatment approaches:

Medical Detox:

• Medication-assisted symptom relief
• Supervised withdrawal process

Inpatient Treatment:

• Comprehensive rehab support
• 24/7 care and therapy

Outpatient Treatment:

• Therapy and support while living at home
• Includes 12-step meetings, support groups, and one-on-one counseling

You Can Recover From Wellbutrin Withdrawal

Withdrawing from Wellbutrin can be a challenging but manageable process, especially when approached with the right plan and support system. If you or your loved one is struggling with bupropion dependence or experiencing withdrawal symptoms, help is available.

At Avenues Recovery, we specialize in addiction treatment and support. Our professional team can help you safely taper off Wellbutrin, manage withdrawal symptoms, and guide you toward a full recovery.

Don’t wait, contact Avenues Recovery today to begin your journey to sobriety.

FAQs About Wellbutrin Withdrawal

• Can Wellbutrin withdrawal cause anxiety?

  Yes, anxiety is a common and well-documented symptom of Wellbutrin withdrawal. As your brain adjusts to the absence of the medication, feelings of nervousness or restlessness may increase temporarily.

• Can Wellbutrin withdrawal cause diarrhea?

  Some people do experience digestive issues like diarrhea during Wellbutrin withdrawal. Changes in brain chemistry and the body’s adjustment process can affect the digestive system.

• Can Wellbutrin withdrawal cause exhaustion?

  Fatigue or exhaustion is often reported during Wellbutrin withdrawal. The body may feel drained as it adapts to functioning without the drug’s stimulating effects.

• Can Wellbutrin withdrawal cause headaches?

  Yes, headaches are a common symptom of Wellbutrin withdrawal. They can result from changes in brain chemicals and the body’s reaction to stopping the medication suddenly.