Wellbutrin and fatigue response?

I've taken the generic Bupropion for a few years with Escitolopram when my Dr. Thought it was a good idea after a few negative life events. I'm off it now for a little while, Escitolopram only. And honestly I actually feel better. Not exhausted 24/7, not quite as anxious or angry or fuzzy-headed. More like me. I did feel better with it in the beginning for sure. I just felt way too tired and wound up lately so it was discontinued. Check with your Dr. If those seem like issues to you too.

I am currently taking 300mg SR and I have sleepiness.

I’ve been on bupropion 2 days and I’m so tired and sleeping most of the day. Dr told me to take in the morning as I wake up in the middle of the night to go to BR and can’t fall back to sleep some times. He said it is a stimulant. I slept ok after getting up once but I am so sleepy all day and slept in my chair until about 10 pm last night so I expected not to sleep last night. I have also had headaches and a little nausea and feel strange after about an hour, a bit foggy and then I can’t do anything except sit in my chair nap! I’m on 100 mg SR and my dr wants me to take for 2 weeks and see if it helps or needs increased. A couple of years ago I was on 150 mg XL and took it at night. I was only on it for about 6 months and got off. I don’t know if I should just stop taking or try to take at night. Is it the SR that makes me so tired?

Hi everybody! I’m glad I was able to read all of your questions, responses, answers, and experiences. I just started taking the generic Wellbutrin 150 XL yesterday. It has definitely made me very sleepy! I wasn’t expecting that. However, my therapist (who is a fan of the drug) suggested I start taking it at night, before bed. I’m going to try that and see how it goes, because I, like you, can’t afford to be sleepy and drowsy all day. I’ll post an update when I get some results.

I recently began taking the ER formula 150mg, once a day. I just finished my second week, the first week, I didnt need extra sleep felt pretty energetic and good. Now 4 days in. Im so tired, I can't keep my eyes open. I'm literally nodding off! sleeping 12-16 hours a day, 4 days now. Luckily I'm not working, I wouldnt be able to function. Im hoping this will pass soon. I was searching for an answer myself, questioning this as a side effect. I have never heard this being a side effect before. While searching for an answer myself, I stumbled ascross this thread/website. Thank you!! Now i have a better understanding.

I did the 1st time I took 150mgs XL, lasted 3 or 4 days then nothing at 300mgs it made me feel sick to my stomach. Not good for me but it works great for most people

I was on Wellbutrin for a short time. I did have what they call the " honeymoon phase" where I had increased energy for a few day, after that initial response it was down hill & had to stop. I've yet to find an antidepressant that works, and I've had the genetic testing which is supposed to tell the docs what is best for your body! Don't stop any meds quickly - keep in touch with your doc. I've yet to find one that I can even tolerate the side effects & being full time in college I'm just trying my best to get through the day mentally. Best of luck!

Hi lili-
When I was on WB I had the same side effects. I was fatigued with anxiety and irritable. After 2 months it still did not go away. I was a little less fatigued but the anxiety and being on edge did not go a way. I had to stop taking it.
If you can tolerate staying with it for 6+ weeks you will know if the side effects are going to lessen and or go away.
Hope it all works out for you.

Hi, lili! In placebo-controlled clinical trials 19.8% of patients reported feelings of sedation/fatigue during initiation therapy and so is considered a *common* response.
I would guess that this, like most side effects, should resolve within just a few days to a week or two but do let your doctor know that your Wellbutrin is affecting you this way.
Best wishes and I hope all goes well for you.