Wellbutrin Withdrawal: What Is It?

Wellbutrin, also known as bupropion, is a medication prescribed to treat depression, seasonal affective disorder, and to help people quit smoking. When you stop taking it, your body might need time to adjust, leading to withdrawal symptoms. While these are often milder than those from other antidepressants, they can still affect your daily life. This article explains what happens during Wellbutrin withdrawal, how long it lasts, and how to manage it effectively, so you’re prepared and supported.

Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms

When you discontinue Wellbutrin, you might notice a range of symptoms as your brain adapts to the absence of the drug, which boosts dopamine and norepinephrine levels. Common withdrawal symptoms include excessive sweating, especially in warm weather, and trouble sleeping, often with vivid dreams or restlessness. You could also experience nausea, dizziness, or digestive upset, alongside mood swings, anxiety, or irritability.

Some people report “brain zaps”—brief, electric-shock-like sensations in the head—or mild tremors. Not everyone faces these symptoms, but studies suggest about one in five people might if they stop suddenly after a month of use.

Withdrawal Effects of Wellbutrin

Beyond the physical signs, Wellbutrin withdrawal can impact how you feel and function. You might find it harder to concentrate, feel tired more easily, or get frustrated with family and friends due to mood changes. These effects come from your brain recalibrating after relying on Wellbutrin to balance neurotransmitters. Compared to antidepressants like SSRIs, which heavily affect serotonin, Wellbutrin’s withdrawal tends to be less intense, making it a bit easier to handle, though it still requires attention and care.

How Long Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Last?

Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 1-2 days of your last dose and last about 2-4 weeks for most people. The exact duration depends on factors like your dosage, how long you’ve been taking it, and whether you taper off gradually. Symptoms often peak around the first week and start fading by weeks two to four. If you’ve been on Wellbutrin for years, you might notice lingering effects slightly longer, but most people feel back to normal within a month.

Wellbutrin Withdrawal Timeline

Here’s what the withdrawal process might look like over time:

  • Days 1-2: Mild symptoms start, like restlessness, slight anxiety, or trouble sleeping, as the drug leaves your system.
  • Days 3-5: Symptoms can ramp up, with more sweating, nausea, or mood swings as your body adjusts.
  • Week 1: This is usually the peak, where you might feel the full range—brain zaps, irritability, or dizziness hitting hardest.
  • Weeks 2-4: Things begin to settle down; sleep improves, moods stabilize, and physical symptoms ease up.
  • Beyond 4 Weeks: Most people are back to baseline, though some might take a little longer depending on their situation.

Tapering off slowly with your doctor’s help can make this timeline smoother and less intense.

What Helps Wellbutrin Withdrawal?

Managing Wellbutrin withdrawal starts with a smart plan. Working with your doctor to taper off gradually—cutting your dose step-by-step over weeks—is the most effective way to keep symptoms in check.

Beyond that, simple lifestyle changes can make a difference.

Regular exercise, like walking or yoga, can boost your mood and energy.

Eating balanced meals and getting enough sleep support your body’s recovery.

Stress-reduction tricks, such as meditation or deep breathing, can calm anxiety and help you rest better.

Talking to friends or a therapist can lift your spirits too. If you’re using Wellbutrin to quit smoking, nicotine patches might ease cravings during this time. Always consult your healthcare provider to tailor these strategies to your needs.

Final Notes

Wellbutrin withdrawal can feel challenging, but it’s manageable with the right approach. Be aware that Wellbutrin has an FDA warning about increased suicidal thoughts in younger people, so watch for serious mood changes and call 988 if you’re in crisis.

References

  1. “Going Off Antidepressants” – Harvard Health Publishing (https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants)
  2. “Bupropion-Associated Withdrawal Symptoms: A Case Report” – National Institutes of Health (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC181057/)
  3. “Can I stop taking Wellbutrin suddenly or should I taper off?” – Drugs.com (https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/stop-taking-wellbutrin-suddenly-taper-3574885/)
  4. “How to Use Bupropion SR” – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/quit-smoking-medications/how-to-use-quit-smoking-medicines/how-to-use-bupropion-sr.html)