Wellbutrin is a unique type of antidepressant called norapinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRI) that can be effective for treating anxiety. While this medication may not be beneficial for all who struggle with anxiety, it is effective for many. Continue reading to learn more about taking Wellbutrin for anxiety.
About Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant that has been FDA-approved for the treatment of depression and smoking cessation since 1985. The medication works by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine to the brain. By preventing the reuptake, it allows these two chemical messengers to increase their levels in the body. This is thought to improve mood and relieve symptoms associated with depression rehab.
It has been discovered that Wellbutrin can be highly effective for anxiety as an off-label medication. This means that, although the drug was not formally approved for anxiety treatment, it has been found to be efficacious.
- Wellbutrin is an oral medication that is available in three forms:
- Wellbutrin XR (extended release)
- Wellbutrin immediate release
- Wellbutrin SR (sustained release)
How Does Wellbutrin Relieve Anxiety?
Antidepressants have been prescribed for the treatment of anxiety for many years now. However, these SSRI depressants may not be effective for some people or may cause intolerable side effects. This is where Wellbutrin comes in.
Wellbutrin has a different mechanism of action in the brain as compared to SSRIs. This difference can make Wellbutrin appropriate for some patients who didn’t experience symptom relief or had side effects with SSRIs. For example, Wellbutrin can have stimulant effects which offset the fatigue that is common with anxiety.
Understanding Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety is a mental health condition that is characterized by an irrational level of fear, dread, and worry. This fear response, known as the fight, flight, or freeze response, is out of proportion to the triggering situation. There are several types of anxiety disorder, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder: Features excessive fear and worry that causes impairment in daily life. Symptoms include shortness of breath, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, heart palpitations, irritability, sweating, and dizziness.
- Panic disorder: Features ongoing panic attacks with symptoms of impending doom, chest pain, trembling, shortness of breath, and nausea. The symptoms are similar to a heart attack, but resolve within 10-15 minutes.
- Specific phobia: Features an extreme and irrational fear of a specific object or situation, causing symptoms similar to a panic attack. Feelings of horror, dread, and loss of control are common.
Social anxiety: Features an intense fear of being publicly judged, ridiculed, or rejected. Symptom are sweating, blushing, nausea, muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, and lightheadedness.
Off-Label Use of Wellbutrin for Anxiety
Once a medication is approved for use by the FDA, it may be used for the treatment of other conditions in what is called “off label.” Off-label uses of Wellbutrin include:
- Neuropathic pain
- Social anxiety
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- PTSD
- ADHD
Wellbutrin for Anxiety and Comorbid Depression
Wellbutrin was discovered to help with anxiety by accident. This occurred when patients being treated for depression found that it also helped their co-existing anxiety symptoms. Co-occurring depression and anxiety is a common dual diagnosis, with about half of depression patients being diagnosed with anxiety.
When it was discovered that Wellbutrin relieved depression symptoms, but also anxiety symptoms. This led to the off-label use of Wellbutrin for anxiety. For the treatment of anxiety, Wellbutrin is said to take about two weeks to begin showing results, with most occurring in 4-6 weeks. This is a typical response timeline with most other antidepressants as well.
Side Effects of Wellbutrin
As with all medications, Wellbutrin may produce adverse effects in some individuals. To note, some patients taking this drug for anxiety disorder may experience anxiety symptoms, although that is a rare event.
Possible Wellbutrin side effects may include:
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Sleep disturbance
- Agitation
- Stomach pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Tremor
- Psychosis
- Manic episodes
- Seizures
The Role of Wellbutrin in Anxiety Treatment
Treatment for anxiety disorder includes three core interventions: psychotherapy, medication, and holistic elements. These elements when utilized together can have a significant impact in the management of anxiety. Let’s examine each of these interventions:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is integral to the treatment process. Through various therapies that are highly effective in anxiety treatment, the individual learns new ways of managing their fears. Therapies that help anxiety disorder include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Exposure therapy
- EMDR
- Acceptance and commitment therapy
- Interpersonal therapy
- Psychodynamic therapy
Medication
Although medications like Wellbutrin cannot cure anxiety disorder, they can improve functioning and quality of life by reducing symptoms. There are several classes of drugs that have been used in the treatment of anxiety. These include:
- Benzodiazepines. This group includes Xanax, Valium, Ativan, and Centrax,
- SSRIs. This group includes Prozac, Lexapro, Celexa, Paxil, and Zoloft.
- NDRI. This group includes Wellbutrin.
- Tricyclic antidepressants. This group includes Elavil, Sinequan, and Tofranil
- Beta blockers. This group includes Inderal and Tenormin.
Holistic
Holistic activities are effective tools that can be accessed at any time as needed. These methods help you reduce anxiety symptoms through a variety of activities, including:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Deep breathing techniques
- Somatic healing
- Art therapy
The Importance of Exercise and Nutrition in Anxiety Recovery
In addition to the three-pronged treatment approach for anxiety recovery, there is a need to focus on physical wellness. Studies have confirmed the important role that healthy eating and regular exercise play in mental health. Maintaining a diet that is rich in nutrients helps improve brain health and cognitive function. Engaging in daily exercise produces the brain chemicals that boost mood and control stress.
LifeSync Malibu Residential Mental Health Treatment Center
LifeSync Malibu offers primary mental health services within a luxury residential setting. Our physician-owned treatment center provides top-tier mental health support for individuals struggling with anxiety disorder. To discuss using Wellbutrin for anxiety treatment, please reach out to us today at (866) 491-4426.