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Why Is Wellbutrin Prescribed For ADHD Despite Bad Side Effects?

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Posted on Thu, 5 Oct 2017
Question: Yes, my question is why do Drs. prescribe Wellbutrin, which has really bad side affects for ADHD instead of Metadate CD? I received a prescription to take 400 mg a day. I take one and it gives me a stomach ache, headaches, I cannot concentrate and it is a horrible medication. I understand the DEA changed the rules regarding Scheduled Drugs---but now I sit here as a non functioning person because Kaiser will not prescribe it for anyone a little older--who has no high blood pressure, no problems with the heart. That is my question. Wellbutrin SHOULD be on the schedule. It is awful.

N

No follow up question other then what should I do. I cannot live like this. The Wellbutrin was even given to my son (age 28) the extended release and he had horrible ringing in his ears.
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Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

Stimulants can cause heart attacks in older people even with no premorbid risk factors, so these are not an option for you. ADHD can be adequately treated with non-stimulants other than Wellbutrin such as clonidine, Strattera, or guanfacine. Talk with your doctor about these other options.

Please rate and close your answer when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 2236 Questions

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Why Is Wellbutrin Prescribed For ADHD Despite Bad Side Effects?

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Hello, and thanks for your question. Stimulants can cause heart attacks in older people even with no premorbid risk factors, so these are not an option for you. ADHD can be adequately treated with non-stimulants other than Wellbutrin such as clonidine, Strattera, or guanfacine. Talk with your doctor about these other options. Please rate and close your answer when you are finished and satisfied. In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private web address below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private web address: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers