Insomnia from Bupropion: Causes, Fixes, and What to Do

When you take bupropion, an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid that works differently from SSRIs by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine. Also known as Wellbutrin, it’s often chosen because it doesn’t cause sexual side effects—but for many, it steals sleep instead. If you’ve started bupropion and suddenly can’t fall asleep, or you’re waking up at 3 a.m. feeling wide awake, you’re not alone. Up to 20% of people on bupropion report trouble sleeping, making insomnia one of its most common and frustrating side effects.

This isn’t just "feeling wired"—it’s your brain chemistry shifting. Unlike SSRIs that boost serotonin and often cause drowsiness, bupropion increases dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters tied to alertness and energy. That’s great for motivation, but terrible for bedtime. The effect is strongest in the first few weeks, especially if you take your dose too late. People who take it after noon often notice their sleep worsens. It’s not a sign the drug isn’t working—it’s just how it interacts with your body’s natural rhythm.

Fixing this isn’t about quitting the medication. Many users keep bupropion and solve the sleep issue with simple changes. sleep hygiene, a set of daily habits that support natural sleep cycles matters more than you think. Moving your dose to the morning, avoiding caffeine after 2 p.m., and skipping screens an hour before bed can make a big difference. Some people find that adding a low-dose melatonin, a natural hormone that signals your body it’s time to sleep at night helps reset their rhythm without causing dependency. Others work with their doctor to try a tiny dose of a non-habit-forming sleep aid like trazodone, which doesn’t interfere with bupropion’s benefits.

It’s also worth checking if another medication or health issue is making things worse. People with anxiety, ADHD, or thyroid problems often notice insomnia more sharply on bupropion. And if you’re taking it for depression, poor sleep can make your mood feel worse—creating a cycle that’s hard to break. That’s why tracking your sleep patterns for a week can help your doctor spot the real culprit.

You don’t have to live with sleepless nights just because you’re on bupropion. The good news? Most people who adjust their timing, tweak their habits, or add a small sleep aid find relief without giving up the antidepressant that’s helping their mood. Below, you’ll find real stories and practical advice from people who’ve been there—plus what your doctor needs to know when you’re trying to balance mental health and restful sleep.