I have recently been prescribed bupropion for treatment resistant major depressive disorder. As I have tried most other SSRI's, SNRI's, MAOI, tricyclics, etc. I've been taking bupropion for 8 days. And my depressive/anxiety symptoms have become much worse.
Just wondering if this is normal with initial treatment with bupropion? As I haven't experienced this with the myriad of other antidepressants.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Is it normal for bupropion to worsen depressive symptoms within the first 1-2 weeks?
Question posted by Tatiana_2271 on 26 Nov 2021
Last updated on 28 November 2021
Answers
WildcatVet
27 Nov 2021
Hi, Tatiana!
As with most, if not all, antidepressant/anxiolytics bupropion has the potential to cause new or increased depression and/or anxiety in a small number of users:
"Common (1% to 10% of users): Anxiety, confusion, depression, disturbed concentration, irritability, nervousness"
The good new is that you should be over the worst of it very soon:
"Side effects have been reported to be generally mild and transient. They are most common during the first 2 weeks of treatment and decrease in intensity and frequency with continued treatment. They generally do not lead to treatment cessation."
Best regards and I hope this helps.
Wildcat
PS, I've been on bupropion for about 4 years now with very good results.
Tatiana_2271
27 Nov 2021
Thankyou WildcatVet! I've pretty much been prescribed most groups of antidepressants, neuroleptics and anxiolytics over the last 21 years. But my experience with bupropion is different. There are a few bonuses despite the increase in depression. As my energy/motivation level seems to have improved. And the craving for cigarettes is declining.
Hopefully a sign that better things are yet to come.
Related topics
panic disorder, bupropion, major depressive disorder, treatment, symptom
Further information
- Bupropion uses and safety info
- Bupropion prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Bupropion (detailed)
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