My doctor wants to put me on Wellbutrin for anxiety and panic. I’m not so sure if this is smart?
Does anyone take Wellbutrin for an anxiety disorder?
Question posted by Bakerretiree on 24 Nov 2020
Last updated on 25 November 2020
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4 Answers
WildcatVet
25 Nov 2020
Hi, Baker!
I have to agree that it may be an odd choice but there is some evidence that bupropion (Wellbutrin) can be effective in some cases for treating GAD and Panic disorder:
"One pilot study (Trusted Source) did find that bupropion XL was comparable to escitalopram (an SSRI, another type of antidepressant) in treating people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
While this may suggest that Wellbutrin could possibly be a second- or third-line treatment option for GAD, larger, more extensive trials are required to confirm this.
There’s also some evidence that bupropion may help treat panic disorder. One case study found that bupropion at a dose of 150 milligrams daily improved panic and anxiety symptoms in an individual with panic disorder.
Anecdotal evidence also supports the use of bupropion in addition to other medications to treat panic disorder. However, like the GAD pilot study, further research is needed to determine whether bupropion is effective in treating panic disorder."
Maybe your doctor has seen more recent studies? But as elandem says, Dr's orders. Worst case, you can always stop it.
Just for the record, I also have anxiety disorders associated with Bipolar and I'm taking buspirone specifically for that, but I've also taken bupropion for several years and it's caused no increase in my anxiety.
Best regards and I hope this will be a good medication for you.
Bakerretiree
25 Nov 2020
Thanks for your informed answer.
Wheezy27
25 Nov 2020
I am curious about this too. I was on it before and it caused more anxiety, then I went on Zoloft, which was awesome, but dide effects were not good, weight gain. My Dr just put me back on Wellbutrin, we will see this time.
elandem
24 Nov 2020
I always say follow Drs. orders, but I do agree this is an odd choice for anxiety. But the good thing is,
you will know pretty quickly if it helps or makes things worse and you can stop if that happens.
TyreseTl
24 Nov 2020
Wellbutrin is usually a good choice for people suffering from depression. I’m not sure about anxiety disorders or panic attacks. I have never taken it before, but I’ve seen many good reviews about people taking this medication for MDD.
Related topics
wellbutrin, anxiety, panic disorder, major depressive disorder
Further information
- Wellbutrin uses and safety info
- Wellbutrin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Wellbutrin (detailed)
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