Anxiety is overwhelming and can make anyone feel like they are stuck in an endless cycle of apprehension and fear. To many people, medication is not an option but a reality in order to get their anxiety under control and to improve their quality of life. Wellbutrin for anxiety is one such drug which has indeed shown a lot of promise in the case of individuals suffering from said conditions.
Primarily used as an anti depressant, Wellbutrin is generally prescribed off label with a view to helping reduce the symptoms of anxiety. This post explores how Wellbutrin works to effect anxiety, signs that it is effective, potential side effects and more.
Learn how Wellbutrin can help manage anxiety and symptoms effectively. Discover its benefits and how consulting an online psychiatrist can guide your treatment for better mental health and long-term relief.
Wellbutrin: What is it and how does it work for anxiety?
Wellbutrin is one of the medications prescribed off label for anxiety disorders, especially when other medications fail to respond. The active ingredient of the medication, bupropion, is generally considered an atypical drug because its mechanism of action involves an increase in the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. These two neurotransmitters are involved in regulating mood; therefore increasing their levels reduces symptoms of anxiety.
Although Wellbutrin is not FDA indicated for anxiety, many healthcare providers are prescribing it for anxiety and because it does not share the same risks and side effects as other medications used to treat anxiety. This is especially helpful for those who experience fatigue while on Wellbutrin or weight gain which is a common side effect of traditional anxiety medications.
Advantages of Wellbutrin for Anxiety
Anxiety treatment efficacy: While this medication is not approved for the treatment of anxiety disorder, Wellbutrin has provided symptom reduction in some studies. The results suggest that it may be indicated in GAD and other anxiety disorders treatments. Its mechanism of action involves restoring the balance of mood neurotransmitters, thereby decreasing anxiety and, consequently, improving general emotional stability.
Minimal sedation: Most classic anxiolytics, like SSRIs and SNRIs easily cause fatigue and somnolence. Wellbutrin, however is less likely to cause such side effects and thus is very well tolerated by the individuals who need to be active during the day.
Increased energy and focus: Some people taking Wellbutrin may experience increased energy. In cases of anxiety and ADHD, sometimes Wellbutrin and Adderall are taken in combination to help improve focusing and concentrating while reducing symptoms of anxiety.
How long does it take to work for anxiety?
The timeline as to when Wellbutrin for anxiety starts working varies in everyone. Some may begin to feel a difference after a few weeks and it may take up to 4 weeks for the full effects of this medication to kick in. If one starts feeling different and their mood is uplifted along with less anxiety, then they should continue the treatment. Some signs that this medication is effective include:
Less anxiety: You may feel less anxious and overwhelmed, which might mean that Wellbutrin works for you.
More energy: Wellbutrin is going to increase daytime energy for you and decrease the sleepiness/fatigue felt during the day.
Improved sleep: Once the symptoms of anxiety are managed, most people find that sleeping improves.
Common Wellbutrin Side Effects One Should Be Aware Of
As with all medications, the potential for side effects when taking Wellbutrin for anxiety may be a concern. While most people find Wellbutrin to be well tolerated, some individuals experience mild side effects including:
- dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sleep disorder (insomnia)
These side effects often are temporary; your body will eventually adjust to the medication. It is very important to discuss any ongoing or increasing side effects with your health care provider.
More serious side effects include
- Suicidal ideation, particularly in children, adolescents and young adults.
- Seizures: You could have a higher chance of seizures with the use of bupropion if you have had them before or have an eating disorder.
- Less frequent but possible are delusions and confusion which might require the attention of a healthcare provider.
If you experience any of these serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and monitoring.
Bupropion Withdrawal Timeline
When it is necessary to stop Wellbutrin owing to anxiety, there are some proper withdrawal plans that become particularly crucial the longer it has been ingested. Suddenly stopping Wellbutrin can result in withdrawal symptoms.
The bupropion withdrawal timeline can vary but usually consists of common withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Anxiety and depression
- Flu like symptoms
For people who need to stop the use of Wellbutrin altogether it is essential that one works with the doctor in gradually reducing the dosage of the drug.
Wellbutrin in combination with other drugs
If you are being treated with Wellbutrin for anxiety, you might be on other medications for other conditions. One of the popular combinations is Wellbutrin and Adderall. This may be prescribed in cases when people have different issues, such as anxiety and combined with ADHD in their lives. Adderall helps with focus and paying attention whereas Wellbutrin helps to manage the symptoms of anxiety.
However, the combination of medicines has to be done with care. Always consult your doctor before starting a new medicine or combination therapy to ensure it is safe and effective for your specific needs.
Signs that Wellbutrin is working for you
If you’re unsure if the Wellbutrin is helping your anxiety look for these signs:
Improved mood: You may be less anxious and feel more at ease.
More energy: This is known for providing a boost in energy and enabling one to get through the day without feeling tired.
Better concentration: You may be able to better focus on tasks or activities as your anxiety improves.
First, know your feelings and do not hesitate to call your health care provider should you think something is different or the medication is not acting as it should.
What to do if you experience side effects
If you have any of these anxiety treatment side effects when taking Wellbutrin, immediately consult with your doctor. Most of the common side effects associated with it are minor and dissipate in due time as the body adjusts to the drug. On the other hand, some serious ones may include seizures, suicidal thoughts and even hallucinations for which immediate medical attention must be sought.
Conclusion
Wellbutrin can be an excellent option for patients with anxiety. It is a medication that influences neurotransmitter balance in the brain by reducing anxiety and improving mood and raising energy levels. Not approved by the FDA for the treatment of anxiety, numerous individuals report it effective for keeping their anxiety and symptoms under control, in particular once other medications have failed. In this process, if you are considering medication Wellbutrin as a part of the anxiety treatment plan, you should consult a healthcare provider together you can create a personalized anxiety treatment plan which best meets your needs and helps live a more balanced and anxiety free life.
MindVita places prime importance on helping people put themselves first to better their mental health through self care and medication management. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety then please give us a call today to get started on a treatment plan that works specifically for you.
Contact MindVita today and take that first step toward a healthier more balanced life.
Wellbutrin for Anxiety: Questions and Answers
1. How long does it take for Wellbutrin to start working in cases of anxiety?
Symptoms may take up to 4 weeks for full therapeutic effect to appear. Some people feel a dramatic improvement after just a few weeks although this is very individualized.
2. Does Wellbutrin cause drowsiness or tiredness?
No, Wellbutrin is less likely to make a patient feel fatigued or sleepy; therefore, many anxious individuals prefer taking it over other available antidepressants.
3. What are the signs that Wellbutrin is working?
Symptoms include reduced anxiety, more energy, improved mood and higher quality sleep. These improvements may be indicating that Wellbutrin is working for you.
4. Is it safe to take Wellbutrin with Adderall?
The combination of taking Wellbutrin and Adderall can be quite effective in controlling anxiety and ADHD. Always consult your doctor to make sure it is safe to do so for your specific needs.
5. How do I manage Wellbutrin withdrawal?
If for any reason you need to quit Wellbutrin, you should work with your doctor to taper off gradually. Suddenly stopping may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
