Wellbutrin Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Taking It

When you start taking Wellbutrin, a brand name for the antidepressant bupropion, used to treat depression and aid smoking cessation. Also known as bupropion, it works differently than SSRIs by targeting dopamine and norepinephrine instead of serotonin. That’s why some people choose it — less sexual side effects, more energy. But that same mechanism can flip the script and cause problems like insomnia, dry mouth, or even seizures if you’re at risk.

Not everyone gets side effects, but if you do, they often show up in the first week. Bupropion, the generic form of Wellbutrin, has the same active ingredient and same risk profile. Common complaints include headaches, nausea, and trouble sleeping — especially if you take it late in the day. Some people lose weight on it, which is why it’s sometimes used off-label for that, but others gain weight or feel jittery. Rare but serious risks include seizures, especially if you have a history of eating disorders, head injuries, or are taking high doses. It’s also not safe if you’re quitting alcohol or benzodiazepines cold turkey — that spike in seizure risk is real.

Antidepressant side effects, the unwanted reactions that come with psychiatric medications vary wildly between drugs. Unlike Lexapro or Zoloft, Wellbutrin rarely causes weight gain or low libido. But it’s more likely to cause anxiety or agitation, especially early on. If you’ve tried other antidepressants and couldn’t tolerate them, Wellbutrin might be your best shot — but only if you’re honest with your doctor about your medical history. People with liver issues, high blood pressure, or a history of bipolar disorder need extra monitoring. And if you’re switching from an SSRI, you need a clean break to avoid serotonin overload.

You’ll find posts here that dig into what to watch for after switching to generics, how to handle insomnia from bupropion, and why some people feel worse before they feel better. Others cover how Wellbutrin compares to other meds for depression or ADHD, and what to do if side effects don’t fade. This isn’t just a list of symptoms — it’s a practical guide to spotting real problems, knowing when to call your doctor, and understanding why your body reacts the way it does. No fluff. No scare tactics. Just what you need to stay safe and make smart choices.