Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Disturbing Thoughts After Having Bupropion SR For Depression?
Question: Hello, I have a question about bupropion sr, I've been on it since late August and it ha helped me with depression and some compulsive disordered eating behavior. I use something on occasion to help with anxiety but as of late I have had some very disturbing and intense thoughts randomly. I thought they were paranoia but they have not gone away, and are creeping into my everyday life...is there a chance this is related to the wellbutrin or possibly an interaction??? I need these thoughts to stop, they are totally out of character and terrify me- I mean if they continue I will likely need some serious intervention. Thank you for any insight you can offer!
Brief Answer:
Such side effects could occur due to Bupropion
Detailed Answer:
Hello thanks for asking from Health Care Magic for your health related queries
I have read your query and can understand your problem.You have issues of depression and compulsive eating behaviour. You are on Bupropion SR which is a good antidepressant drug. It belongs to atypical antidepressants group and it affects concentration of serotonin, noradrenalin and also dopamine in brain. Over all the drug is safe to use and is free of serious adverse effects if taken under proper prescription.
In some rare individuals it is known to induce intense paranoia or psychosis like episode. Some individuals may develop delusional ideas while on bupropion. There are several case reports which support this side effect. These side effects occur in some susceptible individuals or individuals who are on large doses of drugs.
So if the paranoia like symptoms are causing serious impairment in functioning then I would advise you to discuss the issue with your doctor. Some other antidepressant like SSRIs especially Fluoxetine, Escitalopram can be given to you. These drugs also help in eating disorders and are free of such type of side effects. Reducing the dose of Bupropion is other alternative. Concomitant use of low dose benzodiazepines like Clonazepam or lorazepam can also help to reduce these symptoms and will relieve serious anxiety. Discuss your psychiatrist for change in prescription.
Thanks, hope this helps you. Please don't hesitate to ask again for more doubts.
Such side effects could occur due to Bupropion
Detailed Answer:
Hello thanks for asking from Health Care Magic for your health related queries
I have read your query and can understand your problem.You have issues of depression and compulsive eating behaviour. You are on Bupropion SR which is a good antidepressant drug. It belongs to atypical antidepressants group and it affects concentration of serotonin, noradrenalin and also dopamine in brain. Over all the drug is safe to use and is free of serious adverse effects if taken under proper prescription.
In some rare individuals it is known to induce intense paranoia or psychosis like episode. Some individuals may develop delusional ideas while on bupropion. There are several case reports which support this side effect. These side effects occur in some susceptible individuals or individuals who are on large doses of drugs.
So if the paranoia like symptoms are causing serious impairment in functioning then I would advise you to discuss the issue with your doctor. Some other antidepressant like SSRIs especially Fluoxetine, Escitalopram can be given to you. These drugs also help in eating disorders and are free of such type of side effects. Reducing the dose of Bupropion is other alternative. Concomitant use of low dose benzodiazepines like Clonazepam or lorazepam can also help to reduce these symptoms and will relieve serious anxiety. Discuss your psychiatrist for change in prescription.
Thanks, hope this helps you. Please don't hesitate to ask again for more doubts.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
