How Long Does Wellbutrin Withdrawal Last?

Wellbutrin, known generically as bupropion, is a widely prescribed antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and as a smoking cessation aid. It’s not a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), like many other antidepressants. Wellbutrin works differently — it’s a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) that affects the brain’s dopamine and norepinephrine levels. But like all medications that influence the brain’s chemistry, stopping Wellbutrin—especially abruptly—can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

If you’re here, you might be wondering: How long does Wellbutrin withdrawal last? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. This article breaks down the Wellbutrin withdrawal timeline, common symptoms, and strategies for managing withdrawal symptoms, all in clear and supportive language for anyone navigating the withdrawal process.

What Is Wellbutrin Withdrawal?

Wellbutrin withdrawal is part of a broader phenomenon known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. Though bupropion is not an SSRI or SNRI, it still impacts neurotransmitters and, therefore, the brain’s chemical balance. When the drug is suddenly stopped—especially cold turkey—the brain reacts to the sudden shift, resulting in a range of physical and psychological symptoms.

Common Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms vary in intensity depending on how long you’ve been taking the medication, your dosage, and how your body metabolizes bupropion. Here are some of the most commonly reported symptoms of Wellbutrin withdrawal:[1]

• Mood swings and mild anxiety
• Depressive symptoms returning or worsening
• Sleep disturbances such as trouble sleeping, nightmares, or insomnia
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Flu-like symptoms, including fatigue and muscle aches
• Irritability and emotional sensitivity
• Headaches and dizziness
• Physical discomfort, such as nausea or sweating
• Less commonly, people may report “brain zaps”, though these are more typical of SSRIs

It’s important to note that more prolonged withdrawal symptoms or severe symptoms can occur if Wellbutrin is stopped abruptly or without medical supervision.

Understanding the Wellbutrin Withdrawal Timeline

While experiences vary, there is a general Wellbutrin withdrawal timeline that many people follow:

First 1–3 Days After Last Dose

Mild symptoms may begin to appear, including irritability, trouble sleeping, and fatigue. If you stopped cold turkey, this is when you may start feeling the most intense withdrawal symptoms.

Day 4–7

Peak withdrawal symptoms typically occur during this phase. Mood swings, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating may intensify. People may also notice physical symptoms like muscle aches or flu-like symptoms.

Week 2–3

For many, symptoms begin to ease around this time. However, psychological symptoms like anxiety or depressive symptoms may linger longer.

1 Month and Beyond

Some individuals may experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms, particularly if the original Wellbutrin dose was high or they were on it long-term. This includes ongoing trouble sleeping, emotional instability, and low energy.

These long Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms can sometimes trigger relapses in depression or smoking habits.

Factors Influencing the Duration and Severity of Withdrawal

Not everyone will have the same experience. Several factors influence the duration and intensity of Wellbutrin withdrawal, including:

• Dosage: Higher doses (e.g., 300mg/day) may lead to stronger withdrawal effects.
• Length of Use: Long-term users are more likely to experience more prolonged withdrawal symptoms.
• Tapering Plan: Gradual tapering under a doctor’s guidance helps minimize withdrawal symptoms.
• Coexisting Conditions: Conditions like anxiety disorders or other mental illnesses can exacerbate withdrawal.
• Other Antidepressants: People switching from or to serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may have compounded effects.
• Lifestyle Factors: Poor sleep patterns, lack of emotional support, or an unhealthy lifestyle may worsen symptoms.

Is It Dangerous to Stop Wellbutrin Cold Turkey?

Stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey—without tapering under medical supervision—increases the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms. These can include intense mood swings, depressive episodes, and difficulty managing day-to-day tasks. It can also trigger relapses into depression or lead to substance use if the medication was originally prescribed for smoking cessation or other addictive behaviors.

Always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Managing Wellbutrin Withdrawal Symptoms Effectively

The key to navigating this transition is preparation, support, and self-care. Here are evidence-based strategies to manage symptoms effectively:

1. Tapering Plan

Work with your healthcare provider to develop a gradual tapering schedule. Reducing the dose slowly gives your brain time to adjust to the change in dopamine and norepinephrine levels.

2. Lifestyle Support

Follow a healthy, balanced diet to stabilize mood and energy. Regular exercise can boost mood-regulating neurotransmitters and maintain consistent sleep patterns to combat fatigue and emotional distress. You should also stay hydrated, as physical symptoms like headaches and dizziness can worsen with dehydration.

3. Mental Health Support

Engage in therapy or counseling during the transition period. Join support groups or online forums where others share experiences. Be honest with friends or loved ones about your experience so they can offer emotional support.

4. Medical Monitoring

Regular check-ins with your doctor can help track symptoms and adjust the tapering plan if needed. If depressive or anxious symptoms return, your doctor might suggest alternative antidepressant medication or other interventions.

Can Wellbutrin Withdrawal Lead to Weight Changes?

Weight gain is a commonly reported concern during withdrawal, especially if Wellbutrin was being used for its appetite-suppressing effects or as part of a plan to lose weight. When stopping the medication, metabolism and appetite may shift, leading to increased hunger or lower energy for activity.

Combat this by:

• Focusing on nutrient-dense foods
• Avoiding processed sugar during withdrawal
• Creating an exercise plan that includes even light movement, like walking

When to Seek Help

While many Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms last a few weeks, severe or persistent symptoms should never be ignored. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Suicidal thoughts
• Severe depressive episodes
• Hallucinations or extreme confusion
• Inability to function daily

Your safety and mental health come first—there’s no shame in needing help during this transition.

Get Connected to a Top-Rated Mental Health Treatment Center

Quitting Wellbutrin, like any antidepressant, can be challenging. But understanding the Wellbutrin withdrawal timeline, recognizing common symptoms, and building a plan for managing withdrawal symptoms can make the journey safer and more manageable.

Whether you’re coming off Wellbutrin after treating depression, using it as a smoking cessation aid, or exploring other mental health treatments, it’s crucial to work with your doctor, listen to your body, and seek emotional support throughout the process.

If you were taking Wellbutrin to treat depression and didn’t experience relief, New Jersey Behavioral Health Center is here to help. We offer evidence-based therapy methods and medication management. In other words, we can help you find a medication that works for you while you undergo therapy at the same time.

Contact us today for more information on how we can help you improve your mental health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wellbutrin Withdrawal

1. Can Wellbutrin withdrawal be different from SSRI withdrawal?

Yes. Unlike SSRIs, which primarily affect serotonin, Wellbutrin targets dopamine and norepinephrine. This means “brain zaps” and intense flu-like symptoms (commonly reported with SSRIs) are generally less frequent. Instead, people often notice mood instability, fatigue, and concentration issues when stopping Wellbutrin.

2. Is everyone who stops Wellbutrin guaranteed to experience withdrawal symptoms?

No. Some people stop Wellbutrin with minimal or no withdrawal effects, especially if they’ve taken it at a low dose or for a shorter duration. Genetics, overall mental health, and lifestyle factors all play a role in how the body reacts.

3. Can supplements or natural remedies help with withdrawal?

Some people report relief from omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and B vitamins, which may support brain function during withdrawal. While promising, supplements are not a replacement for medical supervision, and their effectiveness varies. Always consult a healthcare provider before adding them.

4. Does stopping Wellbutrin affect smoking cessation efforts?

Yes, it can. Since Wellbutrin is sometimes prescribed as a smoking cessation aid, stopping it may increase the risk of relapse in people who quit smoking. If tobacco cravings resurface, doctors may recommend alternative treatments or behavioral supports.

5. How do I know if my symptoms are withdrawal or a return of depression?

This can be tricky. Withdrawal symptoms often begin within days of stopping and gradually improve. A relapse of depression tends to develop more gradually, persists longer, and worsens without treatment. Keeping a daily mood journal and staying in touch with a doctor can help distinguish between the two.

6. Can restarting Wellbutrin stop withdrawal symptoms?

In many cases, yes. If symptoms are severe, doctors may recommend reinstating Wellbutrin at a lower dose and then tapering more slowly. This approach often reduces discomfort and helps the brain adjust more gradually.

References:

1. The Primary Care Companion: Bupropion-Associated Withdrawal Symptoms: A Case Report