Antidepressants, including Wellbutrin, are widely used in managing depression in bipolar disorder.
A 2023 study found that bupropion was as effective as venlafaxine as an antidepressant monotherapy for bipolar II disorder.
A maximum dose of 450 mg per day can be taken as 150 mg three times per day.
Do not expect to feel improvement of your depression right away.
It may take two to three months for you to feel the antidepressant effects of the medication.
Studies show that bupropion is not harmful during pregnancy.
Always be sure to tell your obstetrician about all medications you are taking.
While rare, taking Wellbutrin can increase your risk of experiencing a seizure.
If you miss a dose, skip it.
The risk of seizure is dose-dependent, and doubling up is more likely to cause a seizure.
Never take both Wellbutrin andZyban, which is also bupropion.
Zyban is used for smoking cessation, but taking both will dangerously increase your dose of the same chemicals.
Other medications that can cause drug interactions include antipsychotics, corticosteroids, blood thinners, and other antidepressants.
These medications may impact how Wellbutrin works or increase your risk of experiencing side effects.
Drinking alcohol if you take bupropion increases the risk of seizures.
Never stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor first.
Suddenly stopping your medication may lead towithdrawaland the return of bipolar mood symptoms.
Instead, talk to your doctor about gradually tapering your dose and other treatments to manage your bipolar symptoms.
Keep in Mind
Research suggests that Wellbutrin can be a safe and effective treatment for bipolar disorder.
Psychotherapy can also help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder.
U.S. Federal Drug Administration.Wellbutrin (bupropion hydrochloride) tablets: Prescribing information.
National Institute of Mental Illness.Bipolar disorder.
Gitlin MJ.Antidepressants in bipolar depression: an enduring controversy.Int J Bipolar Disord.
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