Wellbutrin (Bupropion) Overdose - The Symptoms and the Causes

Can You Overdose on Wellbutrin?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Wellbutrin (bupropion). Taking too much Wellbutrin can lead to serious health complications, including seizures, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and even death.

Wellbutrin affects the balance of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) in your brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. It is used to treat major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and to help with smoking cessation.

Using Wellbutrin without a prescription or in ways not prescribed by a doctor can be dangerous, and it can lead to dependence and abuse. A Wellbutrin OD can be serious and may require immediate medical attention. Unintentional overdose is also a possible risk, especially in populations such as children or the elderly, and can lead to delayed seizures or other toxic effects even without suicidal intent.

In this post, Avenues Recovery, leaders in drug detox and rehabilitation, answer all your burning questions about the likelihood of overdosing on Wellbutrin and the symptoms of overdose.

Taking Wellbutrin Safely

Understanding how Wellbutrin (bupropion) works and its various forms is essential for anyone taking the medication, as it helps ensure safe use and reduces the risk of complications, including overdose.

Wellbutrin is available in several formulations, including immediate release, sustained release, and extended release (often labeled as bupropion XL). Many patients start with Wellbutrin 150mg tablets, which may be increased based on their doctor's guidance.

Each formulation is designed to deliver the medication at different rates, which can influence both its effectiveness and risk of side effects. Therapeutic doses of Wellbutrin are generally well tolerated, with common side effects being dry mouth, insomnia, and agitation, but higher doses can lead to toxic effects.

How Much Wellbutrin is Too Much?

According to the manufacturer and clinical guidelines, the Wellbutrin overdose amount is generally considered to be doses above 450 mg/day, which are associated with a significantly increased risk of seizures.

The seizure risk is estimated at about 0.4% at 450 mg but rises sharply with higher doses. In situations where a person ingests more than 600 mg, the risk increases dramatically, with some studies reporting seizures in about 30% of overdose cases.

Wellbutrin is typically prescribed at the following daily doses, depending on the formulation:

• Immediate-release (Wellbutrin IR): Up to 450 mg/day, divided into three doses
• Sustained-release (Wellbutrin SR): Commonly 300 mg/day (150 mg twice daily); maximum is 400 mg/day
• Extended-release (Wellbutrin XL): Usually 300 mg once daily; maximum is 450 mg/day

What Happens if You Take Too Much Wellbutrin?

When you take too much Wellbutrin (bupropion), the drug overwhelms the central nervous system, leading to serious disruptions in brain and body function.

A Wellbutrin overdose excessively increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels, affecting the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. This activity can lead to symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, and a fast heart rate. Multiple seizures are a serious risk and often happen after warning signs like tremors, confusion, or intense restlessness.

In addition to neurological effects, Wellbutrin can impact the heart’s electrical system, resulting in dangerous arrhythmias, which may be life-threatening if not promptly managed.

What Are Some Wellbutrin Overdose Symptoms?

Wellbutrin (bupropion) overdose symptoms can range from mild to severe, and often affect the nervous system and heart. Common symptoms include:

• Agitation
• Tremors or muscle twitching
• Hallucinations
• Seizures
• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• ECG changes like QRS widening and QTc prolongation
• High blood pressure
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or loss of coordination
• Loss of consciousness (in severe cases)
• Cardiac arrest (in severe cases)

In general, the intensity of symptoms can differ depending on the amount of Wellbutrin taken, and individual factors. Weight loss can also occur as a clinical effect of Wellbutrin OD.

Can a Wellbutrin Overdose be Fatal?  

Yes, Wellbutrin overdose can be fatal, though fatalities are not common with prompt treatment. A high number of Wellbutrin overdose cases involve seizures, which can lead to serious complications. Overdose can also cause heart problems like irregular heartbeats and high blood pressure, increasing the risk of life-threatening events such as cardiac arrest. Immediate medical care is essential to reduce these risks and improve chances of recovery.

What Causes a Wellbutrin Overdose?

A Wellbutrin (bupropion) overdose is usually caused by taking too much of the drug, whether accidentally, intentionally, or through misuse. Here are some common causes of a Wellbutrin OD:

1. Accidental Ingestion: Accidentally taking more Wellbutrin than prescribed, such as double-dosing or taking extra pills, can lead to an overdose. This can happen due to confusion about dosing instructions or forgetting that a dose has already been taken.
2. Intentional Misuse or Abuse: Some people may intentionally misuse or abuse Wellbutrin in an attempt to get high or to self-medicate for depression or other mental health issues. The misuse of crushed tablets, including insufflation or other non-oral routes, increases the risk of severe adverse effects.
3. Drug Interactions: Certain medications can interact with Wellbutrin and increase the risk of an overdose. For example, taking Wellbutrin with other medications that also lower the seizure threshold, such as certain antidepressants or antipsychotics, can increase the risk of seizures and other serious side effects.
4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of a Wellbutrin overdose. For example, people with a history of seizures or eating disorders may be more susceptible to the effects of Wellbutrin overdose.
5. Alcohol or Substance Use: Combining Wellbutrin with alcohol or other substances can make an overdose more likely. Alcohol can strengthen the effects of Wellbutrin and increase the risk of seizures and other serious side effects.
6. Suicidal Intent: In some cases, individuals may engage in intentional Wellbutrin overdose as a means of self-harm or suicide. This is a serious medical emergency and requires immediate intervention.

How to Treat Wellbutrin Overdose

A Wellbutrin overdose might be treated with activated charcoal to reduce how much of the drug gets absorbed, but only if it is caught within 1-2 hours. For large doses or extended-release (XR) formulations, whole bowel irrigation (WBI) may be used to flush the system and prevent delayed toxicity.

Close monitoring of vital signs is essential. Overdoses can trigger QT prolongation, cardiogenic shock, or delayed onset seizures. If seizures happen, benzodiazepines are usually given right away. In severe cases, it can progress to status epilepticus, which requires ICU care, airway protection, and strong anticonvulsants.

When standard treatments don’t work, especially in severe toxicity, lipid emulsion therapy may be considered as a last-resort option. Urine drug screens are often done to check for other substances that might be involved.

The Role of Poison Control

Poison control centers are a critical part of overdose response. They offer real-time toxicology guidance to both the public and healthcare teams. If you suspect a Wellbutrin overdose, calling poison control can help direct you to immediate and appropriate care - even before reaching the ER.

Prevent a Wellbutrin Overdose With Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one struggle with Wellbutrin abuse, reach out to our experts so we can guide you on your road to recovery. Our incredible staff have helped over 30,000 people break free of their addictions and build successful futures. If you would like to begin your journey to sobriety, Reach out to Avenues Recovery today. Discover a warm and vibrant recovery community that will be with you every step of the way. 

FAQs About Wellbutrin Overdose

What happens if I accidentally take two 300mg wellbutrin?

Taking two 300mg Wellbutrin tablets accidentally is more than the usual dose and may increase the chance of side effects, but it doesn’t always cause serious problems. It’s important to contact your doctor or poison control to get advice and monitor how you feel. If you notice symptoms like dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or seizures, seek emergency care right away—most people recover well with prompt attention.

What are the long-term effects of Wellbutrin overdose? 

Overdosing on Wellbutrin can increase the risk of seizures, and in some cases, these seizures can lead to long-term neurological effects. In severe cases, a Wellbutrin overdose can lead to organ damage, particularly to the kidneys, liver, and heart. Rarely, severe overdose may result in brain death, especially when coma and profound neurological impairment occur.

Some people may experience long-term cognitive effects, such as memory problems or difficulties with concentration and attention.

Overdosing on Wellbutrin can also impact emotional well-being, potentially leading to mood swings, depression, or anxiety. Depending on the extent of the overdose and any resulting complications, individuals may experience challenges in daily functioning and overall quality of life.

Can a Wellbutrin overdose be reversed?

There is no specific antidote to reverse a Wellbutrin (bupropion) overdose. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting vital functions. In the emergency room, doctors may use activated charcoal to reduce drug absorption if the overdose was recent, control seizures with medications, and monitor heart function closely. Prompt medical care is essential to improve outcomes and reduce complications.