Wellbutrin For Anxiety: How It Works and What To Expect

Wellbutrin and Anxiety

Wellbutrin, also known as bupropion, is a commonly prescribed antidepressant used to treat depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Although it is not specifically approved as an anxiety medication, some people explore Wellbutrin as an off-label option for managing anxiety symptoms.

But can Wellbutrin truly help with anxiety disorders? This guide covers how Wellbutrin works, its potential benefits, and possible side effects when used for anxiety.

How Does Wellbutrin Work?

Wellbutrin works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, which means it helps maintain higher levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain.

Unlike SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), which target serotonin, Wellbutrin’s impact on norepinephrine and dopamine offers a unique approach to treating mood disorders. This mechanism can benefit people who experience low energy and motivation, especially if they also suffer from symptoms of anxiety.

Since Wellbutrin does not primarily target serotonin, it’s not as common an anxiety medication as SSRIs or SNRIs. Instead, doctors typically prescribe Wellbutrin to treat depression or as a treatment option for bipolar disorder and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Its stimulating effects can support motivation and mood improvement but may require monitoring if used to address anxiety disorders.

How Does Wellbutrin Help with Anxiety?

Wellbutrin can have benefits for people with both anxiety and depression. The stimulating effect of Wellbutrin often boosts energy levels and can improve concentration and motivation, making it a favorable treatment option for people with low energy or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Many doctors consider Wellbutrin when patients experience both depression and anxiety because it has a low risk of weight gain, a side effect that can concern those on antidepressants.

However, due to Wellbutrin’s stimulating properties, it can be a mixed choice for anxiety treatment. People with high levels of anxiety may experience agitation or restlessness as potential side effects of Wellbutrin. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of Wellbutrin with a healthcare provider, especially if anxiety symptoms are prominent.

Wellbutrin Dosage for Anxiety

Wellbutrin dosages can vary depending on the individual’s needs and response to the medication. For anxiety treatment, doctors usually start patients on lower doses to monitor for side effects and effectiveness. Here are some common dosages prescribed:

• 100 mg to 150 mg: These lower doses are often used to start treatment and assess initial tolerance. For some, this may be sufficient for managing anxiety symptoms without overstimulating effects.
• 200 mg to 300 mg: Standard daily doses for Wellbutrin can range from 200 mg to 300 mg per day, depending on the severity of symptoms and tolerance levels. Doctors may increase the dose if they observe positive effects without anxiety worsening.
• Wellbutrin XL 300 mg: The extended-release version of Wellbutrin, often prescribed as Wellbutrin XL, is taken once daily to help maintain stable blood levels and reduce fluctuations that could impact anxiety.

Adjusting dosages requires careful monitoring to prevent unwanted side effects. Doctors may suggest daily doses of 200 mg or lower if anxiety symptoms increase at higher levels.

Pros and Cons of Using Wellbutrin for Anxiety

Using Wellbutrin for anxiety presents both benefits and risks. Here are some potential pros and cons to consider:

Pros

• Boosts Energy and Motivation: Wellbutrin’s effects on norepinephrine and dopamine can support higher energy levels, which can benefit those with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or low-energy depression.
• Low Risk of Weight Gain: Unlike many antidepressants, Wellbutrin is less likely to cause weight gain, which can be a relief for individuals concerned about weight changes with medication.
• Helps with Smoking Cessation: Wellbutrin is also approved as a smoking cessation aid, which can be beneficial if you’re seeking help to quit smoking while addressing anxiety.

Cons

• Risk of Seizures: One of the severe side effects of Wellbutrin is the increased risk of seizures, especially at higher doses, like daily doses over 300 mg. This risk may increase in individuals with a history of seizures or eating disorders.
• Potential to Increase Anxiety: Wellbutrin’s stimulating effects can lead to restlessness, agitation, or jitteriness, which are common side effects and may worsen anxiety in sensitive individuals.
• Not Primarily Designed for Anxiety: Wellbutrin is not specifically approved as an anxiety medication, which means it may not work for everyone with anxiety disorders.

Can Wellbutrin Cause Anxiety?

For some, Wellbutrin can improve mood and energy levels. However, others may experience increased anxiety after starting Wellbutrin. This antidepressant is classified as an NDRI (norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor), which means it increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.

These neurotransmitters are involved in mood and energy regulation, but they can also lead to stimulating effects, which might worsen symptoms of anxiety in some people. Common side effects of Wellbutrin include jitteriness, restlessness, and even increased heart rate, which can mimic symptoms of anxiety.

Alternatives to Wellbutrin for Anxiety Treatment

While Wellbutrin may be an option for treating anxiety, other medications may offer more direct anxiety relief. Some common anxiety medications include:

• SSRIs and SNRIs: Medications like sertraline, fluoxetine, and venlafaxine are widely prescribed for anxiety and often considered first-line treatments.
• Benzodiazepines: For acute anxiety symptoms, short-term use of benzodiazepines like lorazepam may be effective, though they come with a risk of dependency and are not for long-term use.

Non-medication options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and lifestyle adjustments can also significantly help with anxiety symptoms.

Finding Substance Abuse Treatment Near Me

Wellbutrin offers potential benefits for individuals dealing with both depression and anxiety. Its impact on energy and motivation may be helpful for some people with anxiety disorders, especially those who experience fatigue or low motivation.

While Wellbutrin’s potential for addiction is relatively minimal, people can still be at risk for substance abuse, especially those with co-occurring mental health disorders.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with substance abuse, our addiction treatment centers in Scottsdale, Arizona are open to extend a helping hand to everyone. Our expert addiction specialists are trained to provide evidence-based and comprehensive treatment suited to your needs.

Find hope and healing today by reaching out.