Does Wellbutrin cause weight gain? Discover the effects of this antidepressant on weight, including the potential for both weight gain and weight loss. Get insights into how Wellbutrin works and its impact on your overall health.

Wellbutrin and Weight Gain: Exploring the Impact of This Antidepressant

Wellbutrin, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, has been the subject of much discussion when it comes to its impact on weight. While many associate antidepressants with weight gain, the reality is that Wellbutrin can have a more complex effect on an individual’s weight. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the research and explore the potential for both weight gain and weight loss with Wellbutrin.

What Is Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin, the brand name for the generic drug bupropion, is a type of antidepressant classified as an aminoketone. Aminoketones work by weakly inhibiting the reuptake of two important neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. This means that they prevent the brain from reabsorbing these chemicals, which can lead to an increase in their availability and potentially improve mood and other symptoms.

Wellbutrin has been approved by the FDA to treat conditions such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). It is also commonly used to aid in smoking cessation efforts. While the FDA has not yet approved Wellbutrin for the treatment of bipolar disorder or ADHD, it is sometimes prescribed off-label for these conditions as well.

Does Wellbutrin Cause Weight Gain?

The relationship between Wellbutrin and weight changes is a complex one. While some individuals may experience weight gain while taking Wellbutrin, others may actually lose weight. One study found that 11% of participants gained more than 5 pounds, while 23% lost 5 pounds or more. So, the potential for both weight gain and weight loss exists with this antidepressant.

How Does Wellbutrin Affect Your Weight?

The research suggests that Wellbutrin is more likely to cause weight loss than weight gain, especially when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. A study showed that individuals who took Wellbutrin while following a calorie-deficit diet for 12 weeks saw a 5% decrease in body weight. Additionally, a 2016 study found that those who lost at least 5% of their body weight within the first 16 weeks of taking Wellbutrin were more likely to maintain their weight loss long-term.

Does Wellbutrin Make It Hard to Lose Weight?

No, Wellbutrin does not make it harder to lose weight. In fact, the research indicates that Wellbutrin can actually facilitate weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. By helping to regulate neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, Wellbutrin may enhance the effects of lifestyle changes aimed at weight management.

Do Other Antidepressants Cause Weight Gain?

The impact of antidepressants on weight is a mixed bag. While some studies have reported weight loss, others have found weight gain. This uncertainty is largely due to the many factors that can influence weight changes, such as age, socioeconomic status, and genetics. However, some antidepressants, like paroxetine (Paxil), nortriptyline (Aventyl), and mirtazapine (Remeron), are generally associated with a higher likelihood of weight gain.

Other Side Effects of Wellbutrin

In addition to the potential for weight changes, Wellbutrin can also cause other side effects. Some of the most common side effects, affecting more than 10% of users, include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, difficulty sleeping, and headaches. There is also an increased risk of seizures with Wellbutrin, with 1 in 1,000 people who take the drug at risk. For this reason, Wellbutrin is not recommended for those already at a higher risk of seizures.

While Wellbutrin may cause weight gain in some individuals, the research suggests that it is more likely to result in weight loss, especially when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your weight and address any side effects that may arise during Wellbutrin treatment. By understanding the nuances of how this antidepressant can affect your weight, you can make informed decisions about your overall health and well-being.

Does Wellbutrin Cause Weight Gain?

Medication

Most people typically associate antidepressants with weight gain, yet many people who take antidepressants instead experience weight loss. While these weight changes have been observed in many, the reasoning behind them is not well known. Some speculate that it occurs because of the antidepressant’s effect on certain neurotransmitters, while others suspect that it may result from treating the individual’s condition (and their symptoms). 

Whatever the cause, weight changes observed with antidepressant use are often minimal, and they can go either way. Some people who take Wellbutrin, one type of antidepressant, may experience weight gain, while others experience weight loss. The results can differ for each person, although weight loss (especially when focusing on healthy lifestyle habits) is typically more common.

What Is Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin is a brand name for bupropion, which is a type of antidepressant classified as an aminoketone. Aminoketones weakly inhibit the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, which are two neurotransmitters that send messages to nerve cells. Typically, once the message is sent, the brain reabsorbs the neurotransmitters through a process called reuptake. However, aminoketones block this reabsorption, increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.

Some of the conditions which Wellbutrin has been approved to treat include seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Wellbutrin is also used to help someone quit smoking (smoking cessation).

There are also some “off-label” benefits to bupropion when used to treat bipolar disorder and ADHD. However, the FDA has not yet approved Wellbutrin for the treatment of these conditions.

Does Wellbutrin Cause Weight Gain?

Wellbutrin may cause weight gain in some individuals.

In one study on Wellbutrin and weight changes, 11% of the participants gained more than 5 pounds. However, in the same study, 23% of the participants lost 5 pounds or more. So, while Wellbutrin may cause weight gain, it can also cause weight loss.

How Does Wellbutrin Affect Your Weight?

Most of the research surrounding Wellbutrin and weight change suggest that it is more likely to cause weight loss than weight gain. However, these results are most prominent when Wellbutrin is combined with healthy lifestyle changes versus when it is used on its own.

Does Wellbutrin Make It Hard to Lose Weight?

Wellbutrin does not make it hard to lose weight, and research has shown that weight loss is often achieved when combining Wellbutrin with a balanced diet and exercise.

One study showed that taking Wellbutrin while following a calorie-deficit diet for 12 weeks showed a 5% decrease in body weight.

Wellbutrin can also help with long-term weight loss, with a 2016 study finding that the participants were more likely to maintain their weight loss from Wellbutrin if they lost at least 5% of their body weight within the first 16 weeks of taking Wellbutrin.

Do Other Antidepressants Cause Weight Gain?

Research regarding the effect of antidepressants on weight is mixed, with some studies reporting weight loss while others report weight gain. The primary reason behind this uncertainty is that many factors contribute to weight changes, and it is difficult to consider all of them when completing studies, especially long-term observational studies.

A ten-year study on more than 300,000 individuals who take antidepressants did find an increased risk of weight gain. However, the authors of the study emphasize that they could not determine if the weight gain was because of the antidepressants or because of other uncontrollable factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and genetics.

If weight change is observed, though, it is typically minimal and gradual, which makes it easier to combat using lifestyle changes such as exercise and balanced diets.

There are some antidepressants that typically have a higher likelihood of weight gain, and they include:

• Paroxetine (Pareva, Paxil)
• Nortriptyline (Aventyl)
• Imipramine (Tofranil)
• Amitriptyline (Elavil)
• Mirtazapine (Remeron)

Other Side Effects of Wellbutrin

When starting Wellbutrin, some of the most common side effects include restlessness, agitation, and insomnia. Temporarily lowering the dose or avoiding taking Wellbutrin at bedtime can often help to combat these initial side effects.

Some other side effects that affect more than 10% of all Wellbutrin users include:

• nausea and vomiting
• dry mouth
• difficulty sleeping
• headache

There is an increased risk of seizures with Wellbutrin, with 1 in 1,000 people who take Wellbutrin at risk. Because of this, Wellbutrin is not recommended for those already at a higher risk of seizures because it lowers the seizure threshold, making seizures more likely to occur.

Those who should avoid Wellbutrin include those who:

• have an active brain tumor
• have a history of epilepsy
• have experience head trauma
• have bulimia nervosa or anorexia

When to See a Doctor?

If you are taking Wellbutrin and are concerned about weight changes that you have experienced, it is recommended to discuss these changes with your doctor.

Get Help From an Online Doctor!

If you are interested in taking Wellbutrin, meeting with an online doctor allows you to discuss your symptoms and if this antidepressant is the best option. Additionally, if you are concerned about the weight changes you have experienced while taking Wellbutrin, you can meet with an online doctor in just 15 minutes using DrHouse to discuss your weight changes and what habits you can change to combat them.

Key Takeaways

Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. It is FDA approved to treat major depressive disorder (MAD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and to aid smoking cessation. Additionally, it has found “off-label” success in treating bipolar disorder and ADHD.

Antidepressants are often associated with causing weight gain, but the evidence supporting this is split. In fact, most evidence shows a greater likelihood of antidepressants aiding weight loss, although the weight loss observed is typically minimal, only a few pounds.

If you are concerned by the weight changes observed while taking Wellbutrin, it is best to speak to a doctor about ways to combat these changes, which can typically be managed with changes in habits.

Sources:

• Jain, A., Kaplan, R., Gadde, K., Wadden, T., Allison, D., & Brewer, E. et al. (2002). Bupropion SR vs. Placebo for Weight Loss in Obese Patients with Depressive Symptoms. Obesity Research, 10(10), 1049-1056. doi: https://www.doi.org/10.1038/oby.2002.142 
• Fujioka, K., Plodkowski, R., O’Neil, P., Gilder, K., Walsh, B., & Greenway, F. (2016). The relationship between early weight loss and weight loss at 1 year with naltrexone ER/bupropion ER combination therapy. International Journal Of Obesity, 40(9), 1369-1375. doi: https://www.doi.org/10.1038/ijo.2016.67 
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Wellbutrin XL Prescribing Information. May 2017. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021515s036lbl.pdf . 
• Gafoor, R. , Booth, H., & Gulliford, M. (2018). Antidepressant utilisation and incidence of weight gain during 10 years’ follow-up: population based cohort study. BMJ, k1951. doi: https://www.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.k1951 
• Patel, K., Allen, S., Haque, M., Angelescu, I., Baumeister, D., & Tracy, D. (2016). Bupropion: a systematic review and meta-analysis of effectiveness as an antidepressant. Therapeutic Advances In Psychopharmacology, 6(2), 99-144. doi: https://www.doi.org/10.1177/2045125316629071 
• Bupropion (Wellbutrin) | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness . (2022). Retrieved 20 July 2022, from https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Bupropion-(Wellbutrin) 
• WELLBUTRIN XL® for HCP’s, Clinical Experience in MDD & SAD. (2022). Retrieved 20 July 2022, from https://www.wellbutrinxl.com/ 

DrHouse articles are written by MDs, NPs, nutritionists and other healthcare professionals. The contents of the DrHouse site are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing high fever (>103F/39.4C), shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, heart palpitations, abnormal bruising, abnormal bleeding, extreme fatigue, dizziness, new weakness or paralysis, difficulty with speech, confusion, extreme pain in any body part, or inability to remain hydrated or keep down fluids or feel you may have any other life-threatening condition, please go to the emergency department or call 911 immediately.

Wellbutrin Weight Loss: How Does It Work?

August 25, 2022

3 min

Medically reviewed and edited by Dr. Danielle Weiss

Summary

• Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that may be prescribed for weight loss as this is one of the drug’s side effects (off-label uses).
• Unlike most antidepressant drugs, Wellbutrin does not make you gain weight; however, the weight loss benefits of Wellbutrin may not be experienced by everyone.
• Wellbutrin is not available over-the-counter in the U. S., but a licensed physician will be able to prescribe it to you for weight loss.
• Wellbutrin has several side effects, but most of these can be avoided by following your doctor’s instructions.
• Before committing to Wellbutrin for weight loss, consider other options. The drug tends to yield better weight loss results in those who are prone to overeating when they’re stressed.

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a popular antidepressant and smoking cessation aid. In 2019, almost 26 million prescriptions were given for the drug in the U.S.

Although bupropion has several off-label uses, the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) has only approved the drug for depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and smoking cessation.

Weight loss is among the off-label uses of Wellbutrin. Unlike most other antidepressants that cause weight gain, weight loss is a common side effect of bupropion.

In this article, we’ll discuss what Wellbutrin is, including its uses, side effects, and how it can aid weight loss.

What is Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin is a brand name of bupropion hydrochloride. This oral antidepressant comes in three different formulations, namely Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, and Wellbutrin XL.

The drug is FDA-approved to treat certain disorders, but there are also non-FDA-approved uses.

In the U.S., the drug is not available over-the-counter and can only be prescribed by a healthcare provider.

What Are the Uses of Wellbutrin?

Bupropion has been approved by the FDA for three different uses, but it can also be used to treat a range of other conditions. A licensed healthcare provider will be able to prescribe Wellbutrin for off-label uses.

Listed below are the on-label (approved) uses and off-label (unapproved) uses.

On-label uses:

• Adult depression
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
• Smoking cessation

Off-label uses:

• Anxiety
• Sexual dysfunction
• Depression (associated with bipolar disorder or obesity)
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Social anxiety disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Neuropathic pain

How Does Wellbutrin Work for Weight Loss?

Even though the FDA has not approved bupropion for weight loss, it’s one of the active ingredients in the FDA-approved weight loss drug, Contrave.

A 2016 study showed compelling evidence for long-term weight loss results on bupropion. Because it stimulates noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin, bupropion may aid your weight loss efforts by:

• Giving you more energy
• Suppressing your appetite
• Lifting your mood
• Decreasing your stress

Key Point: Will Everyone Lose Weight on Wellbutrin?

Although Wellbutrin has shown promising results in some individuals, such as overweight and obese women, it might not be a solution for everyone struggling with chronic weight management issues.

If you are someone who’s prone to eating when stressed, Wellbutrin might be a great choice for you as it decreases stress and improves your mood. However, someone who merely has poor eating habits may not experience Wellbutrin weight loss the same way as an “emotional eater” would.

How soon will I see weight loss results with Wellbutrin?

Taking Wellbutrin has shown promising results in clinical trials, with subjects losing double the percentage of body weight on 400 milligrams of Wellbutrin per day than those in the placebo group.

However, it’s important to note that Wellbutrin is a drug that’s used to treat depression and not a miracle product for weight loss. It may not work for everyone who’s struggling to lose body weight.

Wellbutrin weight loss depends on several factors, but individuals using the drug can expect to start seeing results at around eight weeks.

How much weight can I lose on Wellbutrin?

The amount of body weight you can lose on Wellbutrin depends on several factors. Patients may see more significant weight loss on Wellbutrin if they:

• Have a higher body mass index (in other words, they have more weight to lose).
• Follow a good eating plan.
• Create a caloric deficit in their diet (they consume fewer calories than they did before, or they increase their physical activity to use more calories than they consume).
• Exercise regularly.
• Use Contrave, which is a combination of bupropion and naltrexone.

How much Wellbutrin should I take for weight loss?

You should always consult a healthcare provider regarding medication dosages, but taking 300 or 400 mg of Wellbutrin per day can yield good weight loss results.

Curbing food cravings and achieving weight loss is never easy, no matter which route you take. By discussing your goals and limitations with your doctor, they’ll be able to suggest weight loss modifications and medications that will work for you.

Key Point: Can I Crush Wellbutrin pills?

Unlike other medications that you may be able to crush, chew, or dissolve in water, Wellbutrin pills should be swallowed whole to preserve their slow-release mechanism.

Bupropion medications are available as controlled-release tablets to avoid a rush or high — this ensures they enter the bloodstream slowly and that the drug performs as intended.

Should I Be Using Wellbutrin to Lose Weight?

Most antidepressants will cause weight fluctuations, but bupropion treatment may not cause weight loss in everyone who takes it for this purpose.

There is also a small chance that Wellbutrin can cause weight gain as a side effect. It is therefore important to discuss your goals with your doctor before you start treatment.

Individuals who overeat when they are stressed typically see better weight loss results on Wellbutrin than those who are not prone to emotional eating.

There are many medications your doctor can prescribe for weight loss. Be sure to consider other options before starting Wellbutrin.

How Can I Improve My Weight Loss Results with Wellbutrin?

If you want to see greater weight loss results, there are plenty of other things you can do to supplement your Wellbutrin weight loss plan.

To lose weight faster or to enjoy longer-lasting results, you should:

• Eat a balanced diet.
• Consult a professional, such as a dietitian or nutritionist.
• Follow a sustainable meal plan with a caloric deficit.
• Cut down on ‘empty calories’ such as those in sugary drinks.
• Limit your alcohol intake, and stay hydrated with increased water intake.
• Cut down on processed foods, especially processed meats.
• Be mindful of your sugar intake.
• Exercise regularly.
• Improve sleep quality and quantity to help normalize hunger signals.
• Increase your fiber intake to stay fuller for longer.
• To avoid getting discouraged, don’t weigh yourself too often; rather look for other signs that you’re losing weight over time, such as clothing that fits better/more loosely.
• Be consistent in your efforts.

What Are the Side Effects of Wellbutrin?

All medications have side effects and Wellbutrin is no exception. Wellbutrin side effects can be divided into two categories, namely common side effects and uncommon side effects.

Common Side Effects

• Sleep disturbances
• Rapid heartbeat
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Nausea

Uncommon Side Effects

• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts
• Delusions and paranoia
• High blood pressure
• Severe allergic reactions
• Manic episodes
• Eye problems

Antidepressant medication can have serious side effects, so always listen to your doctor’s instructions.

Following these steps will help you avoid the more severe side effects of Wellbutrin:

• Use your medication as directed.
• Tell your doctor about all the other over-the-counter and prescription medications you’re currently taking.
• Discuss your questions and concerns with your doctor.
• Avoid other drugs, alcohol, and high-risk activities.
• Enjoy a healthy, balanced diet.
• Speak to your physician if you think you may be experiencing bad side effects or need the Wellbutrin dose adjusted. Notify your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing depression or having thoughts of suicide.
• Monitor your blood pressure, and be sure to keep it in a normal range.

What Else Can I Do to Lose Weight?

Approximately 71% of adults aged 20 and over are overweight or obese, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. The direct medical cost of obesity amounts to over $260 billion. Besides taking Wellbutrin, there are plenty of other things you can do right now to start losing weight or to at least set yourself on the right track. Below are some tips and guidelines for losing weight:

• Always eat breakfast.
• Eat at regular intervals each day.
• Be mindful of your food intake — keeping a journal helps!
• Incorporate exercise into your routine.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water.
• Consume foods high in fiber as well as whole foods (unprocessed) and foods that have been minimally processed.
• Focus on getting an adequate amount of quality sleep.
• Speak to your doctor about other weight loss medications.
• Eat from a smaller plate.
• Don’t keep junk food in your home.
• Prepare healthy home-cooked meals instead of ordering takeout.
• Limit alcohol and refined sugar.
• Plan your meals ahead of time.
• Consult a professional, such as a dietician or nutritionist, to gain a better understanding of food.

When Should I See a Doctor to Lose Weight?

Before you start a new diet plan or rigorous workout routine, it’s best to consult a doctor. This is especially important if you have existing medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

To ensure that your new plan is safe, always speak to your primary physician beforehand. A weight loss regimen that works for a friend or family member may not work the same way for you.

If any of the following is true, schedule an appointment with your doctor:

• You have experienced unexplained weight gain.
• You seem unable to lose weight no matter how many diets or exercises you try.
• You are obese and need to lose weight as you’re at a higher risk for certain illnesses.
• You are overweight with depressive symptoms.
• Your weight is directly affecting your health.
• You need to lose weight for surgery.
• You suspect you may have an underlying condition that makes it difficult to lose weight.

How Can I Learn More about Wellbutrin for Weight Loss?

Is stress eating getting you down? If you’d like to find out more about how Wellbutrin can help you reach your weight loss goals and lead a healthier life — or if you’d like to learn about other weight loss options — you can meet with a board-certified doctor or nurse practitioner from your smartphone, computer, or tablet. Visit LifeMD to make your first appointment.

Dr. Danielle Weiss

Dr. Weiss earned her MD from NYU School of Medicine, completed her residency at Scripps Mercy San Diego, and an endocrinology fellowship at Stanford University. She’s Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism.

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Bupropion (BPR)

Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant also used to treat nicotine addiction. Bupropion is a non-tricyclic antidepressant that differs from the commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) because its main pharmacological action is the selective inhibition of norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake. It is selectively taken up by dopamine transport, but the main therapeutic effect is caused by inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake. It also acts as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist. Bupropion belongs to the chemical class of psychoanaleptics and is similar in structure to the stimulants methcathinone, diethylpropion, and other amphetamines.
Bupropion has a stimulating, energizing effect and is preferred in the treatment of depression that occurs with motor retardation, fatigue and hypersomnia. For opposing symptoms such as agitation, anxiety and insomnia, it is best used in combination with mirtazapine, an antidepressant with characteristic sedative and anti-anxiety properties.
Initially developed and marketed as an antidepressant, bupropion soon proved effective in the treatment of nicotine addiction. In 2007, it was prescribed over 20 million times, making it the fourth most prescribed antidepressant in the US market after sertraline, escitalopram, and fluoxetine.
Bupropion was excluded from the state register of medicines on August 22, 2016 and cannot be sold in the Russian Federation as a medicine in the pharmacy chain.
Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold of the brain. The potential to induce an epileptic seizure became widely known shortly after bupropion was introduced to the market. However, the risk of seizures at the prescribed dosage of bupropion is comparable to that of other antidepressants. Bupropion is an effective antidepressant both on its own and as an adjunct in cases where first-line antidepressants (SSRIs) are not effective enough. Unlike many other antidepressants, bupropion does not cause weight gain or sexual dysfunction.

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Weight loss with Wellbutrin: how effective is it?

Disclaimer

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please contact your doctor. Articles in the Health Guide are based on peer-reviewed research and information from medical societies and government agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

If your doctor has prescribed bupropion (brand name Wellbutrin) for depression or to help you quit smoking, you may be interested in learning about one of its common side effects: weight loss.

Can Wellbutrin be used alone as a weight loss medication?

Vitals

• Bupropion (brand name Wellbutrin) may cause weight loss in some people.
• Originally prescribed as an antidepressant, bupropion is now also prescribed for weight loss and smoking cessation.
• Weight loss drugs are usually prescribed if your BMI is over 30 (or 27 or more if you have a health problem).
• Weight loss medications are not for everyone. Talk to your doctor about whether Wellbutrin is right for you.

We’ll take a look at what the scientists say, how Wellbutrin works, and what you and your healthcare provider should consider before starting Wellbutrin as part of a weight loss regimen.

Does Wellbutrin cause weight loss?

Maybe. Bupropion (the generic form of Wellbutrin) was originally prescribed as an antidepressant. It is the only antidepressant associated with weight loss (Alonso-Pedrero, 2019). This mostly pleasant side effect has been noticed by medical professionals, and today bupropion is sometimes prescribed as part of a weight loss medication (naltrexone/bupropion, brand name Contrave) as well as a smoking cessation drug (brand name Zyban).

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Regarding the evidence that bupropion itself causes weight loss:

• C A 2016 study that analyzed the long-term effects of various antidepressants on weight loss found that non-smokers who took bupro peony, lost 7, 1 pound for two years. (This effect has not been observed in smokers.) Users of other antidepressants in the study gained weight (Arterburn, 2016).
• Bupropion is also effective in supporting weight loss. A 2012 study found that obese adults who took bupropion SR (standard release) at doses of 300 or 400 mg lost 7.2% and 10% of body weight, respectively, in 24 weeks and maintained this loss after 48 weeks (Anderson, 2012).
• A 2019 review of 27 antidepressant and weight gain studies found that antidepressant use increased body weight by an average of 5%, excluding bupropion, which is associated with weight loss (Alonso-Pedrero, 2019).

What is Wellbutrin?

Bupropion is a drug known as an NDRI (norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor). This prevents free-floating norepinephrine (aka adrenaline) and dopamine (also known as the feel-good hormone) from being absorbed by the brain. This increases the levels of both chemicals in the brain (Huecker, 2020). Experts aren’t entirely sure how bupropion promotes weight loss. It can act on receptors and neurotransmitters in the brain that affect metabolism and appetite.

Weight loss antidepressants

4 min read

Bupropion is sold in generic form and under several brand names, including:

• Aplenzine 901 79
• Budeprion SR
• Budeprion XL
• Buproban
• Forfivo XL
• Wellbutrin
• Wellbutrin SR
• Wellbutrin XL
• Zyban

Bupropion is FDA approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is also used to help people stop smoking (smoking cessation).

Are weight loss drugs right for me?

If you want to take bupropion for weight loss, talk to your doctor about whether weight loss medication is right for you.

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Health care providers consider certain factors before prescribing weight loss medication. These include the potential benefits of the medication, any possible side effects, your current medical status and medications, your family’s medical history, and cost (NIH, 2016).

Health care providers usually prescribe weight loss medications for people with a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or higher, which means they are obese. If your BMI is between 27 and 29, healthcare providers may prescribe weight loss medication if you have health problems associated with being overweight, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or type 2 diabetes (NIH, 2016).

What is a normal body mass index (BMI)?

2 minutes of reading

Your healthcare provider may also decide that your overweight or obesity can be best treated with simple lifestyle changes, such as a healthy eating plan, regular exercise, and improved sleep, before prescribing medication.

Side effects of bupropion

Bupropion may cause certain side effects. Common side effects associated with bupropion include mental changes (such as hostility or agitation), dry mouth, headaches, nausea, vomiting and dizziness, among others (DailyMed, 2018).

Serious side effects may include seizures, hallucinations, confusion, hypertension (high blood pressure) and allergic reactions (MedlinePlus, 2018). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these side effects while taking bupropion.

Bupropion can also cause drug interactions with some other drugs, including (DailyMed, 2018):

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Blood thinners
• Digoxin
• Antivirals for HIV
• Anticonvulsants
• Drugs that increase dopamine levels
• Drugs that lower seizure threshold

This is not a complete list of side effects or interactions ey with medicines. If you have questions about whether a medicine or supplement you are taking may interact with bupropion, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Read everything you need to know about bupropion here.

Treatment for weight loss

If you are considering a drug for obesity, bupropion is one of several options. Other medications include phentermine/topiramate (brand name Qsymia), liraglutide (brand name Saxenda), and bupropion/naltrexone (brand name Contrave).

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However, keep in mind that no amount of diet pills will help. Your health care provider will recommend a healthy diet and regular exercise in addition to any medications.

References

1. Alonso-Pedrero, L., Bes-Rastrollo, M., and Marty, A. (2019). Effects of antidepressants and antipsychotics on weight gain: a systematic review. Obesity Reviews: Official Journal of The International Association for the Study of Obesity, 20 (12), 1680–1690. DOI: 10.1111 / fig.12934. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31524318/
2. Anderson, J. W., Greenaway, F. L., Fujioka, C., Gadd, K. M., McKenny, J. , & O’Neill, P. M. (2002). Bupropion SR promotes weight loss: a 48-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Obesity studies, 10 (7), 633–641.