Generalized anxiety disorder is a common mental illness that is characterized by extreme and persistent stress and fear. Individuals face difficulty in regulating their everyday life functioning. Multiple treatment options are considered adequate for the treatment of GAD and other forms of anxiety disorder and depression. Experts recommend different medications to manage GAD symptoms, but among them, Wellbutrin is widely recognized.
This article is a comprehensive guide to Wellbutrin for generalized anxiety disorder. After reading this article, you will understand how Wellbutrin works for anxiety. Moreover, you will also learn about the side effects of Wellbutrin and other treatment options.
Wellbutrin for Generalized anxiety disorder
“Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that belongs to the class of norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitors. They target the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine to control stress or anxiety. With the controlled dosage of Wellbutrin, you can experience a significant improvement in mood and behavior. In addition, stress response also improves. If you feel that you are having the symptoms of anxiety, then you can get help from professionals. They can recommend you the appropriate doses of Wellbutrin that can treat the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder”.
Wellbutrin is a medication that experts widely recommend to treat depression. However, in some cases, experts also recommend it for overcoming the symptoms of anxiety. Moreover, it is a brand name for the generic medication bupropion. There are also different names for bupropion, such as aminoketone and atypical depressant. As compared to other types of antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs, this medication works differently.
Furthermore, Wellbutrin is categorized as “off-label” as it is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration(FDA) to treat this condition.
Mechanism of Wellbutrin action
Wellbutrin, like other medications, also targets the neurotransmitters in the brain, which include norepinephrine and dopamine. In addition, it is referred to as the no-epinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor. The level of both these neurotransmitters is altered, affecting the mood, emotions, and the resulting behavior.
How Wellbutrin Works in the Brain?
Wellbutrin for anxiety works in the following ways:
Neurotransmitter Reuptake inhibition
Wellbutrin inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Due to this inhibition, the level of these chemical messengers increases in the synapse. Moreover, its increased level also affects the nearby neurons. Increased norepinephrine levels are also responsible for developing a sense of focus, attention, and alertness. Furthermore, it also plays a significant role in addressing the multiple cognitive symptoms.
Dopamine enhancement
Wellbutrin also elevates the dopamine level which affects the functioning of different regions and increases pleasure motivation. Moreover, it also lifts the mood. Multiple studies have reported that Wellbutrin helps treat the comorbid condition of both anxiety and depression.
Is Wellbutrin helpful for Anxiety?
Yes, Wellbutrin is significant for managing the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Multiple studies have reported the effectiveness of Wellbutrin for the treatment of Generalized anxiety disorder. Moreover, most individuals usually prefer Wellbutrin more as compared to other anxiety medications for the following reasons:
- There are reduced chances that Wellbutrin can result in sleep issues and sexual dysfunction.
- Moreover, those individuals who feel demotivated due to stress or anxiety can regain their passion or motivation by reducing their anxiety with the intake of Wellbutrin.
- There is also a reduced risk of substance misuse.
- They are also safer alternatives to benzodiazepines.
Does Wellbutrin work quickly for Anxiety?
Wellbutrin takes some time to show the response. For depression, Wellbutrin takes approximately 4 weeks to exhibit the complete effect. However, within 1 week, sleeping patterns can go back to normal, and energy levels can increase.
Moreover, the period of the action of Wellbutrin is also the same for anxiety disorders.
Furthermore, you should not start taking Wellbutrin without an expert recommendation. Experts first evaluate the mental state and then recommend the appropriate dosage. Moreover, regular follow-ups are also necessary to prevent side effects and experience rapid results. So, experts can track the changes in the symptoms and also the functioning of Wellbutrin daily or weekly.
If the medication does not provide the desired results, then experts can decide to change the medication intake schedule. Also, remember to not immediately stop taking the drug, as the immediate withdrawal can lead to multiple consequences.
What is the effective dosage of Wellbutrin, and how is it administered?
The dosage of Wellbutrin should be low in the initial stages and increase with time, depending on the individual’s condition. Moreover, there is no standard dose of Wellbutrin for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. The dose of Wellbutrin usually ranges from 75mg to 150 mg per day. However, experts can change the medication regimens based on the requirements accordingly.
Experts follow the specific guidelines before recommending a particular dosage of Wellbutrin.
1. Initial dosage
The initial dose of Wellbutrin is 150 mg per day.
2. Maximum dosage
The dose of Wellbutrin should not exceed more than 300 mg per day.
Before taking Wellbutrin, follow the expert’s recommendation. If you feel any undesired change or adverse symptoms, immediately report them to your professional. They can suggest any other alternative that suits your mental state.
What are the side effects of Wellbutrin?
Whether you are going to take Wellbutrin or any other anti-anxiety medication or antidepressant, you should have complete knowledge regarding the side effects of drugs. So you can take early preventive measures to prevent side effects. However, some common side effects of Wellbutrin are as follows:
- Increased heart rate
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dryness in mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Disturbance in the sleep-wake cycle
- Agitation
- Constipation
Furthermore, those severe side effects which are a perfect indication that you need professional support include:
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Seizures
- Restlessness
- Irrational fears
- Delusions
- Racing heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Allergic reaction
- Increased blood pressure
- Manic episodes
- Muscle or joint pain
- Suicidal thoughts
- Eye problems
What are the significant differences between Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, and Wellbutrin XL?
The main element present in Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, and Wellbutrin XL is bupropion. In addition, there is a diversity in the dosage of each form, and it also depends on the individual’s mental state.
| Feature | Wellbutrin | Wellbutrin SR | Wellbutrin XL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Release Type | Immediately released | Sustained release | Extended-release |
| Time to Start Working | 4 to 6 hours | Up to 12 hours | 24 hours |
| Primary Use | Treats major depressive disorder | Treats major depressive disorder | Treats major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder |
| Dosage Frequency | Three times per day | Two times per day | Once per day |
| Initial Dose | 100 mg | 150 mg | 150 mg |
| Maximum Dose | 450 mg | 400 mg | 450 mg |
Can Wellbutrin Cause Anxiety?
Wellbutrin helps manage the symptoms of anxiety. But it can also induce feelings of anxiety as a common side effect. Therefore, individuals should be thoroughly familiar with each aspect of Wellbutrin.
What are some myths about Wellbutrin for Anxiety?
Some significant misconceptions about the intake of Wellbutrin are as follows:
- Most of the individuals think that Wellbutrin can cause seizures.
- Individuals who have insomnia or other sleep issues should avoid the intake of Wellbutrin.
What should be considered before the intake of Wellbutrin?
Before taking this medication, you should first consult the mental health professional and share all your concerns. Moreover, after the discussion, you will also be aware of the following factors:
1. Off-label use
You should remember that Wellbutrin is an antidepressant but can show some symptoms of anxiety as a side effect. However, this does not happen in every individual; only a few individuals usually report anxiety as a side effect.
2. Detailed insight
Mental health professionals can better guide you regarding the side effects and benefits of Wellbutrin for anxiety.
If you are taking any other medication, then inform your mental health expert, as they can implement some strategies to prevent the interaction of Wellbutrin with other medicines.
Although this medication can work for diminishing anxiety symptoms, it does not work for every individual as most individuals can get anxiety as a side effect and some other adverse effects on mental health.
3. Monitor changes
Before starting your medication journey, you must stay patient to see the results. Meanwhile, if you see any negative changes, you can discuss them with a professional to prevent more negative changes or side effects. Until you are taking the medications, you should also monitor the side effects. Your analysis should be strong initially if you want to experience a successful well-being journey.
4. Combined therapy
You can also take the benefit of combined therapy, in which you can utilize both medication and psychotherapy to see the optimal results.
5. Follow-ups
Regular follow-ups are necessary. So make a schedule of your follow-ups and follow that so you experience the desired mental health outcomes.
Wellbutrin Vs Other Traditional Anxiety Treatments
Only Wellbutrin doesn’t need to work for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. Moreover, not every person can respond effectively to the Wellbutrin. There can be a scenario where Wellbutrin is effective for one person and does not show the desired results for another person. Therefore, for such individuals, some other multiple treatment options prove to be effective for the treatment of anxiety.
1. Therapy for Anxiety
Therapy is the best way to deal with common mental issues, including anxiety and depression. Experts offer a range of programs that can help in overcoming the symptoms of anxiety, which include:
2. Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy or talk therapy that specifically targets the undesired thoughts in the mind and the resulting negative behavior. The primary responsibility of the experts is first to identify the thought patterns and then develop a strategy to treat anxiety symptoms.
3. Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy
Exposure therapy is also a renowned form of psychotherapy. This therapy exposes individuals to situations that activate their stress and fear. Initially, they feel the urge to respond to that distressing situation. Still, with time, they learn to avoid exhibiting the response and become mentally strong enough to adapt to the problem.
4. Mindfulness-based therapy
This therapy focuses on mindfulness techniques and teaches individuals to live in the present moments and accept thoughts and emotions. They learn to transform their negative thoughts into positive ones by remaining in the present moment.
Other Alternative medications
Other than Wellbutrin, some other medications help in managing as well as treating the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are specialized medications that specifically work by elevating serotonin levels, which function to provide relief from the symptoms of anxiety. The most common SSRIs which the experts recommend are as follows:
- Lexapro
- Prozac
- Zoloft
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
These medications also target the specific neurotransmitters in the brain. They cause an increase in the level of norepinephrine, which in turn treats the anxiety symptoms. Experts commonly recommend the following SNRIs:
- Cymbalta
- Effexor
Benzodiazepine
Benzodiazepines are referred to as central nervous system depressants. The most common Benzodiazepines include:
- Ativan
- Klonopin
- Xanax
Seek the Professional help for GAD!
If you are living with anxiety symptoms or know anyone who is suffering from GAD, depression, or any other common mental illness, then immediately reach out to us for professional help. Renewed Mental Health Group is a top platform providing the finest and most diverse mental health services. So whether you are suffering from generalized anxiety disorder, depression, or any other mental health disorder, we have the most effective mental health solutions for you.
Our team of mental health professionals is well-versed in each mental issue and the associated mental health treatment. They develop personalized treatment plans for each individual. So, if you want to achieve mental wellness, you are in the best place. Schedule a consultation with our experts and treat your mental illness today without any delay.
Concluding thoughts
Wellbutrin is a medication that is approved to treat major depressive disorder. However, in most cases, this antidepressant is also used to treat anxiety. It is considered off-label use as the FDA has not approved the use of this medication for this purpose. Moreover, the dose of Wellbutrin varies for each individual depending on the severity of the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. If you are having the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and planning to take this medication, then discuss this with a professional expert. They first evaluate the mental condition and then make a complete schedule of your medication intake.
