Living with anxiety can be difficult. It is essential to manage the symptoms to lead a happy life. Remember, you are not alone; according to the reports from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, almost 40 million individuals deal with anxiety symptoms in their daily lives. Anxiety is the body’s response when the body falsely activates the flight and fight response. Anxiety is normal if it is not causing any damage to your life. However, when the symptoms of anxiety start to affect your daily life in the form of panic attacks caused by panic disorder, it is time to check the treatment options. There are many antidepressant medications, but before we look into that, let’s check out the symptoms of anxiety
- nervousness
- sweating
- shallow breathing
- increase in body temperature.
- social phobia
- major depression
- low energy levels
- suicidal thoughts
Now, before you search Google for ‘Does Wellbutrin helps anxiety,’ make sure you know what anxiety is and if you have the symptoms.
Different Types of Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety comes in various forms. It may show up in the form of constant negative thoughts, or it may prevent you from going to social gatherings, or maybe in the form of anxiety attacks. Anxiety is when our mind worries too much about the future. It usually goes on its own. However, if the symptoms last longer than six months or/and prevent you from living an everyday life, then it’s time to visit a professional.
- Agoraphobia is when individuals are afraid of confined spaces. Places like lifts and small rooms make them anxious and helpless, and they feel trapped without a way out.
- Anxiety Disorder– as the name suggests, it is when the anxiety symptoms get out of control, leading to a panic attack
- GAD– generalized anxiety disorder is when an individual’s mind is always on the go. They keep worrying about petty things.
- Panic disorder– when intense anxiety takes over, individuals start to feel the adrenaline rush in their body, and symptoms start showing up quickly. It can come out of the blue, accompanied by palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, and confusion.
Your healthcare provider will provide you with effective treatment. They will ensure the potential side effects are the least for you. Although individual responses will vary, the treatment of depression is usually medication. If you suffer from physical symptoms, then medication is your best bet. Medicine can cure anxiety. So, if you are thinking, does Wellbutrin help with anxiety? The answer is yes! It helps to manage the symptoms. However, reports suggest that only 37% of individuals with anxiety seek help, and that’s a shame.
If you are looking to get more information on Wellbutrin for anxiety, keep reading!
What Is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that is available in the form of a tablet. It is the brand name for the chemical Bupropion. It is only available with a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. Wellbutrin for anxiety works by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. People with depression suffer from anxiety symptoms as well. The drug administration for Wellbutrin should be done as prescribed by the doctor to reduce severe side effects. It can also be used for social anxiety disorder.
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Does Wellbutrin Combat Anxiety?
The short answer is yes. Wellbutrin belongs to a class of drugs known as aminoketones. Using it produces more neurotransmitters, namely norepinephrine and dopamine.
When you take Wellbutrin for anxiety, dopamine helps elevate body functions like mood, motivation, and sleep. It is a neurotransmitter that is made in the brain. It’s called a reward center, which helps in motivation, mood, memory, movement, etc. The proper levels of dopamine are vital as variation can cause restless leg syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, and ADHD.
Norepinephrine, or catecholamine, is a natural substance in the brain’s central and peripheral nervous systems. It is a hormone and an agent that sends nerve signals. It helps keep you alert by pumping blood through the body.
Wellbutrin for Anxiety? What Happens?
People suffering from depression have lower levels of dopamine in their bodies. That’s why they usually feel low and unmotivated in life. It is the first-line treatment for anxiety.
How Will It Feel When Wellbutrin for Anxiety Takes Effect?
It usually takes 2-weeks for the medicine to show its effect. You will know that Wellbutrin for anxiety is working when;
- You feel energized
- Less fatigued
- Energetic
- And an increased pleasure in things you love to do.
Common Side Effects of Wellbutrin for Anxiety
Like any other medicine, you may experience a minor reaction. Anti-anxiety medication comes with some side effects. Ensure you provide the doctor with a complete medical history. Mental health conditions can be challenging, but treatment for anxiety is there. You don’t need to suffer. You will notice a significant difference once the medicine starts. However, if you suffer from severe side effects, visit a doctor.
- Blurred vision
- Agitation
- Abnormal dream
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Vomiting and nausea
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Edema
- Excessive sweating
- Weight gain
How to Effectively Reduce Side Effects?
Although the risks cannot be avoided, they certainly can be reduced. To prevent adverse effects,
- Use the medication according to the doctor’s prescription
- Do not drink alcohol when taking the medicine
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Ensure you discuss any/all health conditions with your doctor
- Ask questions if you are hesitant to start Wellbutrin for anxiety
Myths About Wellbutrin for Anxiety
You might have heard of many things about Wellbutrin. If you need clarification on the medicine, please keep reading.
- Wellbutrin for anxiety will cause anxiety.
- Wellbutrin will increase the risk of seizure. However, it’s safe to mention your history of seizures to your doctor.
- People with insomnia should not take Wellbutrin.
When Should You Avoid Wellbutrin for Anxiety?
Use of Wellbutrin should be avoided if you have,
- Recently stopped drinking
- Stopped any sedatives in the recent past
- Used MAO, i.e., monoamine oxidase inhibitor, in the last 2-weeks
- Or if you are using Zyban to quit smoking
Alternative Treatments for Anxiety
If you don’t want to use Wellbutrin for anxiety, then you can try the following;
Try Therapy
Medicine or no medicine, therapy can work both ways. However, at times, psychotherapy is more efficient with medications. The type of therapy may depend on the client. There’s CBT, which works by identifying intrusive thoughts and changing them to positive ones. Then, there’s exposure therapy, which will expose you to things you are afraid of. When done right, therapies help regulate mood.
Join Support Groups
There are many support groups online and otherwise. Clinical depression can always be managed when talking to someone. It always helps to talk to someone with similar symptoms without the stress of getting judged. Although this does not cope with anxiety disorder, it does help in managing thoughts.
Exercise More
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, exercise helps to boost energy. So, regular walks or gyms can help ease anxiety symptoms.
Eat a Well Balanced Diet
Incorporate loads of veggies and fruits. Make sure you add whole grains and lean protein to your diet. All these foods lower the risk of anxiety. Say no to caffeine. Studies suggest that caffeine elevates anxiety symptoms.
Get 7 to 8 hours sleep.
As per the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, people suffering from chronic sleep disorders are more prone to getting anxiety. So, yes, sleep is essential. Make sure you get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Sleep at the same time daily. And stay away from gadgets at night.
The Bottom Line- Does Wellbutrin Help with Anxiety?
YES. Wellbutrin has FDA approval with it. This antidepressant can used for depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. The off-label use of Welbutrin is for bipolar disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It also helps individuals to quit smoking.
Some people will experience agitation after starting Wellbutrin for anxiety. Discuss with your mental health care provider and get the dosage adjusted.
- Do not start the medicine without a prescription.
- Take only the desired dose.
- Higher doses can be dangerous. It can lead to some severe complications.
Remember, use the medicine as prescribed by the doctor; there can be severe withdrawal symptoms.
Social anxiety is common, but remember it is treatable. You don’t have to suffer in silence. Get your life back by getting a treatment. Almost 7.1 % of adults suffer from it. You are not alone. Start an antidepressant medication now.
If you want more information, kindly contact us as Therapy Fleet and get an online consultation.
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Medical Disclaimer:
At TherapyFleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to TherapyFleet’s qualified staff.
Based on clinical evidence, Wellbutrin has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of social anxiety disorder by targeting neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation. However, it’s crucial for individuals to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach tailored to their unique needs.
