Wellbutrin Side Effects

Wellbutrin is used to treat depression and aid with smoking cessation programs. It is sometimes used with other antidepression medicines. Many side effects are mild, and won't warrant stopping Wellbutrin, but occasionally serious side effects may occur. Wellbutrin, a brand name for buproprion hydrochloride, is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). It can be used with many other antidepressants because they are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI).

The most common side effects of Wellbutrin include: weight loss, dry mouth, nausea, agitation, constipation, dizziness, headaches, confusion, tremors, hostility, irregular or rapid heartrate, blurred vision, and increased sweat production. These side effects may improve or completely resolve on their own within the first few weeks of treatment with Wellbutrin.

Less common side effects (reported by one to five percent of patients) may include: heart palpitations, increased appetite, indigestion, arthritis, anxiety, high blood pressure, impotence, sexual dysfunction, low blood pressure, and fainting.

More serious side effects can also occur while taking Wellbutrin. You should inform your doctor if you begin experiencing any of these symptoms after beginning Wellbutrin treatment: hallucinations; signs of an allergic reaction-- rash, hives, difficulty breathing, itching, swelling, or trouble swallowing; seizures; suicidal thoughts; strange or unusual behavior; panic attacks; high blood pressure;ulcers; bladder infections; and memory loss.

Rare side effects are those that occur in less than one percent of patients who are taking Wellbutrin. In addition to some of the symptoms above, some of the rare side effects are less serious but may result in Wellbutrin cessation or dose adjustments. These may include: hair loss, acne, bronchitis, and weight gain.

While the package insert for Wellbutrin does not list withdrawal as a potential problem, it has been reported by some individuals. To reduce the risk of suffering withdrawal, try not to quit the medicine abruptly, especially if you have been taking it for a while and/or if you take a higher dose. Side effects that may be experienced during withdrawal include: difficulty sleeping, headaches, fatigue, irritability, dizziness, agitation, and burning/tingling sensations.

Source: Wellbutrin Package Insert