Question:
I'm not sure I understand exactly what Wellbutrin does and doesn't do. I keep hearing "it's in a class all by itself," but that tells me nothing. I was taking Celexa for a couple of years, then switched to Paxil for about a year because the Celexa was no longer effective. During those three years, I gained 30 pounds. I was also concerned about the lack of happiness or sadness with Paxil - that's abnormal. I hardly ever worried, even when I should have, and my willpower was zero. I was smoking more, had to intention of ever quitting, and eating way too much. So I went to my PCP, who suggested we try Wellbutrin, because apparently that's what doctors switch to when there's a weight gain problem on the SSRI’s??
But I also have panic disorder, which has gotten worse, and I've started taking Ativan again, which I never wanted to do. I've only been taking the Wellbutrin for about 2 weeks, but throughout the day I go through periods of uncontrollable crying and depression (I'm fat, ugly, terrible mother, hate my husband, etc).
I'm also experiencing dizziness which sometimes leads to panic attacks. Is Wellbutrin totally wrong for me? Have I just not given it enough time? Is there something out there that works well for depression and panic, but doesn't cause a lot of side affects and weight gain?
Thanks, ...
Dr. Heller's Answer:
Wellbutrin increases noradrenaline and dopamine levels. Taking SSRI’s can cause a relative imbalance with extra serotonin and relatively low noradrenaline and dopamine. This causes a lack of happiness, enjoyment or zest for life. The addition of Wellbutrin to an SSRI is an excellent choice in this situation.
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