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[mssjanine]

I switch to the XL version of Wellbutrin from the SR version a few weeks ago, and I feel good! Back to my old self. I took the SR version for a few months and it did help some, but the XL has helped me go back to spending time with friends and doing things I love.

I <3 Wellbutrin XL

[Kel]

I am feeling very good on the wellbutrin. I have a little problem with sleeping but ambien helps with that..otherwise I am feeling back to normal due to the wellbutrin..I also take lamictal in the mix and so far i feel good but its only been a week.

[gentle sun]

I am very thankful for Wellbutrin. It got me out of a severe depression when nothing else would.

GS

[dangerstranger]

Nobody has responded here in a while, so here goes.  After reading all of the bad side effects (especially anger), I guess I feel lucky I just have some bloating, appetite loss and insomnia.  No anger and my energy is up.  I used to get angry or upset a lot and did for a little bit yesterday, but nothing big.  Though I have insomnia and wake up a lot, I am not as sleepy during the day.  I can focus a little better now and haven't cried once.  I'm excited to see in a couple more weeks what will happen.  So far I've lost 8lbs, but that's been b/c my sugar cravings have diminished.  I hope I'm not the only one who isn't suffering.  I do feel for those who are, but my psychiatrist said Wellbutrin aggravates anxiety really badly.  I rarely get anxious, so I was a good candidate for it.  Good luck to you all!

I was specifically looking for a post that addressed wellbutrin and anger issues. I have had rage episodes and depression for as long as I remember- and I have just started taking wellbutrin. I am wondering if you can remember how long it took to experience results?

The anger had gotten in the way of most of my romantic relationships- It's never been something I have been able to control and I have felt helpless.

I am taking the wellbutrin with clonozapam for my anxiety. I just started today.
I have tried other anti-depressants like ciprilex- which was the worst med for side effects- I didn't sleep for 10 days and lots 15 pounds off my already too thin frame. I hope the wellbutrin doesn't contribute to more weight loss as I already struggle with having an appetite!

It's nice to see I am not alone with this anger issue.
I really hope the wellbutrin helps me.
D

[dusty]

I have been on Wellbutrin SR 150mg(generic) for 14 days. I noticed after a few days my head seemed to have a pressure, and I was dizzy at times. During the first week my energy improved but I think I over did things because I was so exhausted early in the evening. My crying episodes stopped about a week into it. First week seemed to get agitated easily. This week has been really good. Things are seeming a lot clearer. My thoughts are more organized. I don't sound anywhere near as distracted as I did 2 weeks ago when I hold a conversation. My mom says that Wellbutrin is my dad's miracle drug. He is a totally different person on it. He has went through numerous scrips and this one has worked. He did tell me he has found that the name brand works for him, not the generic. His doctor had told him that the generic is up to 40% less effective. Can anyone confirm this? I suppose it depends on the person. He did feel himself slipping and just upped his dosage. Day 10 and 11 I smoked just over half/pk but have increased again. Hopefully over time I will quit. Feeling better, laughing again,but not where I want to be yet. In 2-4 weeks I have a folow up with the doc and see if I might need to increase.

[suziecue40]

Hello,
I was on 300 mg of Wellbutrin XL for a year for depression and I have one positive thing to say about.. Wellbutrin made me so high strung, as though I was on Speed, that I was unable to crawl into my bed when I would feel depressed and could only sleep 5 hours a night. As soon as my alarm went off, my body would literally shoot out of bed and I felt as though I had an IV of caffine running through my veins...I'm not sure whether this was a healthy or if my poor heart took a pounding from this?
That was the ONLY somewhat positive thing about Wellbutrin to me... I can counteract that with a dozen negative problems I had with this drug but it would not be appropriate of me to do this with the topic stating.

[manckar]

As soon as my alarm went off, my body would literally shoot out of bed and I felt as though I had an IV of caffine running through my veins..

plzz tell us when did u notice these changes??after how many weeks of taking wellbutrin??

Edited by manckar, 24 December 2007 - 01:55 AM.

[lionheart7]

Out of all the meds I have taken, I experienced the best results with Wellbutrin. It was the first drug I ever took, and that was 10 years ago. It worked extremely well for 5 years or so. I never had any issues with it at all. It was by no means a wonder drug, but I was able to live life the way I wanted to. For whatever reason, it stopped working. The only thing that has come even remotely close since then has been Lamictal. Sadly, that only worked for a few months, and now it's back to the drawing board.

[Juulee]

+---Topic: Positive Stories about Wellbutrin started by lizard
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Posted by: Bettina01 on Mar. 25 2004,19:12

Hi everyone,

I've been taking Wellbutrin XL 150 mg per day for 24 days now. Occasionally I take two of them in one day (300 mg total), and then return to taking the 150 mg per day. I'm also taking .5 mg of Klonopin (an anti-anxiety med) at night. So far I'm very happy with the results. I have virtually no side effects other than the good ones: losing weight and having more energy and motivation. On this antidepressant I feel more emotional than before. I laugh more and cry more, but don't feel depressed. It's a welcome difference from the medication I was taking previously, Prozac, which dulled my emotions. I'm very glad this forum was here to help me choose this medication. Hopefully the positive effects will continue and I will be able to post on this "positive stories" thread again sometime in the future.
 
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Posted by: DarthKelly on Mar. 31 2004,19:41

This is the second time I have been on Wellbutrin, the first time, I ran out of money for my scrip.  Anyway... Wellbutrin has been so much better for me than any other AD.

Other ADs have caused me to have a dampening of all emotions, and thereby strengthening the depression.  Sigh.  But Wellbutrin has lessened the depression, and not had any effect on my other emotions.

I remember the first time I took it, I felt so good.  Not manic, not depressed, just... like me, without any anchors holding me down, or anything like that.  It felt so liberating.  I've been depressed for as long as I can remember, and I didn't honestly believe that there was any other state of being.  Somewhere on some subconcious level, I thought I wasn't really depressed, that everyone felt the way I did, and I was just being dramatic about it.  That is why it came as such a shock to me to not feel that way.  I have thought often since I started on WB, "I didn't know I could feel like this."

I am so happy with WB and what it has done for me. =)
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Posted by: lizard on Mar. 31 2004,19:53

Bettina01 and DarthKelly,
Thank you for sharing your good experiences on WB. It's encouraging to hear about successes.
Be well ---
Karen
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Posted by: electropop on April 09 2004,09:27

Just want to add to the general happy tone of this thread.  I've been on WB for almost 2 years and have lost depression, fuzzy thinking, and weight (30 lbs).  I have gained strength, happiness, and libido.  There were a few minor SE's at first (nausea, hyper-emotionality), but it was well worth waiting them out.  I am particularly impressed by comparison with the numerous other AD's (mostly SSRI's) I tried, which were all crap as far as I'm concerned. Love my purple smiley pill!

PS Lizard; thanks for the warm welcome, and same to you friend!

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Posted by: Ocracoker16 on April 09 2004,10:12

Wellbutrin SR has been the best antidepressant I have ever been on.  I have been on it 3 years straight having taken 400 mgs for over a year.  This med has caused me few side effects.  I like that it does not increase appetite as gaining weight just further depresses me.  I am glad it has a slight kick to it, because it helps balance out some of the drowsiness from my other meds.  The other antidepressants I have been on are Prozac, Luvox, Zoloft, Celexa, Lexapro, Paxil, Anafranil, Effexor XR,and Serzone.  It is really hard for me to find a good antidepressant because I am Bipolar and AD's can easily trigger mania.  Wellbutrin has never caused such a problem for me.  I love my pink smiley face pills!  I wish everyone all the luck with Wellbutrin.

Katie  
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Posted by: Really real, honest. on May 12 2004,22:27

I have been on Welbutrim for about a year now.  2 pills a day, 300 what-ever.  The only side effect is a ringing in the ears, which I don't even notice until I stop and think about it.  I hear it now because I am writting about it, but this is the first time today I have noticed it.
Thank god for modern medicine, and I don't even believe in god!  This drug is the 'bomb', as those young kids would say.  (Hopefully I am keeping up with the latest slang.)  I don't think I ever want to stop taking this stuff.  Before - I was thinking very not good thoughts, crying for no reason what-so-ever, having problems concentrating at work, and doing serious harm to my relationship with my SO (significant other).  Now - the bad thoughts are rare and not as bad, no more crying, being more productive at work, and making progress with my SO.
Initially theorpy also helped me deal with some of these issues, when I was in more of a crises mode.  But now I am on the drug and see my theorpist only about once every other month.
I used to think that if I was suppose to be happy I would have been born that way.  That having bouts of depression was normal, and I should just tough it out.  And I had to rationalize taking the drug, as I am normally a "no pills for me thank you very much" type of guy.  I told my self that I would take the drug because I wanted to repair the relationship with my SO.  I am totally pro drug now and am considering "coming out" to my family about my depression.
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Posted by: lizard on May 13 2004,07:04

Hi, Honest - welcome to DF.
Thanks for adding your positive experience to our WB room. Glad it's been of so much help to you. Sounds like you've come a long way.
Wishing you continued wellness ---
Karen
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Posted by: Ocracoker16 on May 20 2004,09:04

Honest, I am so glad that you have such great success with Wellbutrin with only one minor side effect.  You sound like you have made so much progress with your attitude about depression and taking meds.  Recognizing that you don't have to suffer through this on your own is so important.  I think you will find support from others who want to tell their families.  I wish you continued results from WB and your new outlook.

Katie  
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Posted by: jillivinilly on May 23 2004,22:45

Wellbutrin has saved my life, literally I'm sure. I was on WB for several years and then quit last fall...long, stupid story why...but I steadily fell back into a deep damaging depression. Luckily, I went back to my pdoc and began taking WB (400mg) again about a month ago. I think it is wonderful, helpful drug. I also take fluoxitine (sp) (prozac). Jill
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Posted by: smileyjack on May 25 2004,17:39

I am taking wellbutrin for my depression and PTSD.  I currently take 300mg per day and I have noticed some relief from my symptoms.  It did take awhile for the wellbutrin to work and it was funny to see how gradual the positive effects were in their coming.  I felt like I was inching towards happiness everyday.  Nonetheless, I feel so much better than I did before.  I am a much happier person but there is still a little anxiety so my doctor will be adding zoloft to the mix of meds.
To all those holding out for the better days on wellbutrin...just hang on a little longer wellbufriends.  Remember not to anxious about the good effects not coming quick enough.  I think if you worry about the arrival you will miss the whole trip!  
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Hope it works for you!

[Mimen]

2 Months now on 300mg WB SR and I am discovering a part of me I never know existed. After a 40 years in a depression since childhood and never knowing it I am surprised by who I am and thrilled.

I have been on 2 dates after having no interest in 7-8 years. I am going out to restaurants and looking to make friends. I am exercising 2 - 3 times a week and loving it. I feel stronger, fitter and hardly ever tired and never anxious! :tongue:

If this is how it feels to be "normal" I have missed out on 40 years of life and I am making the most of it.

Just came back from a 10 day holiday and enjoyed every day of it, also discovered that I am nearly flat broke and laughed about it instead of crawling into an anxious hole.

To all the people new to WB stick it out. It took me month to start feeling much better and after 2 months I can say that I am better than I have ever been.

WB for me is not a happy pill it makes me feel like I should have for the last 40 years!

I am so glad I stuck it out after the initial paranoia reading all the bad things about it. Just realize that people post when they are in the beginning stages or afraid. I did that because I needed it and so many people on this forum has helped me by encouraging words and advice.

You WILL feel better and better!

Cheers it is 7:35 am over here and I have very exciting work to complete

[pittguy578]

29 year old..was initially diagnosed as bipolar due to a family member having bipolar..despite the fact I had little, if no symptoms of bipolar. I was going for treatment for my depression..put on Lamictal..was not having any effect. I was getting worse..had to take time off of work under FMLA and short term leave. I went for a second opinion-they questioned my bipolar diagnosis. I was then tried on genertic WB-I immediately noticed an effect-had the honeymoon. I was up to 225 MG per day but I started having headaches. I then went to the XL version..450 MG..the extended release stopped the headaches..I am now on SR..it's a lot cheaper than the XL..I just have to remember to take it three times a day...

WB has had such a profound effect on me. I have been depressed off and on for a long time. I was afraid to seek help until this last episode where I was having suicidal ideations, crying spells, etc. I also had ADHD..this medicine has allowed me to focus more and slow down..I was on concerta before-this has helped a lot more than Ritalin/Concerta. I am feeling more confident-I can actually make eye contact with people, and I have lost a lot of my social anxiety. I can't believe I suffered almost 30 years with this depression..I wish I had sought help sooner. I thought it was all in my head..and I could positively think myself out of the depression..that was not the case..

[pill muncher]

HI guys im new this is my first post (im male 26 yrs old)i just wanted to say how happy i am to have come accros this forum concerning wellbutrin its great to hear possitive stories especially when the net is riddled with bad ones

ive been on the SSRI train for years now with little and bad results. id like to ask a few questions regarding ndri medication but first i will explain my problems and past meds

in 2003 i self medicating and started becoming parranoid then a bunch of bad events made me decide to see my DR about going on antidepresants i was prescribed paxil (seroxat) for 6 months during this time i had bad nightmares and a complete loss of sexual feeling not a good thing for a young man then i went on citalopam
which helped get me over the horrible seroxat it made me calm but i still wasnt enjoying life then i tryed betablockers which turned me a little zombied so i started fluxatine which i have been on ever since i may have missed a med

during this hole process ive become worse than when i started taking meds!! i am now agoraphobic and not the same person i was before all this

having read into the details about ndri medication ive discoverd that all the time i was taking ssri i was depleating the dopamine nerphdrine? chemicals that are responsible for enjoyment/ love/ reward/ all the good things u need in life. wile the ssris seamed to turn me in a shadow of my former self numb acting out emotions synthetic not enjoying the things i used , i dont even know what that word means anymore.

i cant be botherd to do anything getting out of bed is a chore the idea of going anywhere doesnt seam to have any reward for me even girls i dont have that hormonal drive like i used to.

anyhow after reading some great posts on here
my question is
does NDRI med return
sexual function ie A DECENT O lol?
emotions good or bad?
adrenaline?
that non sythetic feeling ssris give after time?
enjoying my dance music again?

i will be starting my course of wellbutrin XL this week i prayed to god it will get me moving again
good luck to u guys too

Edited by Ajumbledmess, 14 June 2008 - 07:26 PM.

[Burgy]

to DF, (((((pill muncher)))))

I think you'll find that Wellbutrin enhances the emotions as well as the capacity to feel pleasure. It's more activating than the SSRIs, and can help you with focus and energy. Let us know how it goes.

[JCat]

Hi All - first timer here and very interesting thread!

For all you Wellbutrin veterans, I have a question:

I started Wellbutrin SR 150mg 5 days ago, and so far I'm quite pleased (except for the nasty insomnia). I notice about an hour after my dosage, I feel this energy flow through my body, especially my legs. It's a bit speedy, but it's making me more focused, and enthusiastic at work. My question is: Is this one of the benefits in action, or will this eventually level off and I'll no longer have that great 'tingly' feeling? I seem to read everywhere that after two weeks you'll feel a difference, but I sure hope this energetic feeling doesn't leave. I don't even mind that it makes me a bit hyper.


Thanks in advance.

[JCat]

Sorry to double post, but I think I found my answer in the "Honeymoon" thread. Looks like the energy 'rush' isn't going to last, but hopefully better days will follow (after the in between, not so good phase that I will first have to experience).

[ksmylftchk]

Ok I started Budeprion SR 150 yesterday after living with depression and add for the last 10 or so years. Yesterday I didnt notice much other then at 1am I was still wide awake and severe dry mouth to the point that I must have drank 3 gals of water and tried eating little bits all day just to get away from the dryness. Today I notice that I am figitety and still have the dry mouth rather badly trying gum today lets see what happens.

I will post updates, I am keeping my fingers crossed that this works because if it doesnt I am going to go nuts.

[Tink]

Hi.. I just started Welbutrin 100mg 1 x day last week... actually 10 days ago and I have to say that I am experiencing changes already. Let me start by thanking all of you for your posts and Depression forum for allowing us to post. I couldn't find anything positive until this.. I kept on finding side effects which I did not care to read.. this is what I want to read.. I want to focus on all the good qualities and all the good feelings from Welbutrin.

Okay so I started on July 1st and I must say I actually feel some clarity.. here's how it worked for me..
Day one - a little kick of energy
Day two - very bad headache and more depressed
Day three - slight headache still blah & a slight rash but much more energy in the morning
by Day 6 or so I was able to start reading a book... Haven't had enough clarity to do that in a while
Day 7 - started emailing friends again who I haven't in a while
by Day 10 - today - 3/4's of the way through the book
Day 9 & 10 - woke up earlier than my alarm I haven't gotten up before my alarm clock in a while due to not sleeping well at night and really not wanting to get up
oh yes and night 8 & 9 - slept very well!!!
So all in all I can see that I actually want to smile right now.. it comes and goes but I'm not crying as I'm writing this.. what an improvement. WOW!! I love my Welbutrin. I was starting to feel like it was hopeless. I've been going through these bouts of depression since childhood.. could this be the beginning of the end of the depression.. YES!!! I think so!!!!!! The side effects are minimal and well worth the couple of days of experiencing them.. once I got through them I started seeing a bit of the light.

I'm glad to be a part of this forum. Thank you!

[wildchildss]

Yup.

Today I have been on Wellbutrin at least six weeks and I danced around to a song in my living room. It was nice to be randomly happy.

I've taken it off and on for 2 years now, and realize I should probably just stay on it.

Yeah, I advise anyone in the first couple weeks to just try to stick with it a month. The first two weeks for me were hard-the first week was like I was on speed, the second I was overly emotional. The third week through now have just gotten better and better. The scary thoughts don't come and I actually want to get out and be with people. Also, if I don't go out, I feel okay about that, and enjoy little things a lot more.

You know, I can't drink as much caffeine when I'm on it, and I don't drink alcohol as often (though my doc said drinking occasionally is absolutely okay), but hell, I feel better and don't think about dying-that's an easy trade to me.

Also, the emotional eaten has gone bye-bye for now, and I'm hoping it stays that way.

:) Good luck

[Tink]

Yup.

Today I have been on Wellbutrin at least six weeks and I danced around to a song in my living room. It was nice to be randomly happy.

I've taken it off and on for 2 years now, and realize I should probably just stay on it.

Yeah, I advise anyone in the first couple weeks to just try to stick with it a month. The first two weeks for me were hard-the first week was like I was on speed, the second I was overly emotional. The third week through now have just gotten better and better. The scary thoughts don't come and I actually want to get out and be with people. Also, if I don't go out, I feel okay about that, and enjoy little things a lot more.

You know, I can't drink as much caffeine when I'm on it, and I don't drink alcohol as often (though my doc said drinking occasionally is absolutely okay), but hell, I feel better and don't think about dying-that's an easy trade to me.

Also, the emotional eaten has gone bye-bye for now, and I'm hoping it stays that way.

:) Good luck

Wildchild.. I'm glad to hear your news. I hope that you continue to get better and better. I can't wait to dance around in my livingroom!!!

[pill muncher]

ive been on wellbutrin sr for 2 weeks and ive notcied some definate changes ive been strugling with dep for the past 5/6 years which eventually turned me agorophobic and numb from taking ssri meds for too long.
so far in only 2 weeks ive noticed my anxiety is down, in fact i made a trip into the city with my freinds to a big christian convention. my DR was suprised to say the liest. my first trip anywhere far in yrs.

ive started feeling more sensation in my arms which felt numb before. i can think clearly sometimes but with some short mem problems nothing too bad.

my orgasims are getting stronger nice
have had a few days with headache and felt like crying which i never do. suppose its a good thing.

i just pray these things keep getting better and better so i can be the confident happy fella i was before this nightmare
i heard 4 to 8 weeks is the time u really feel the true effects is that so?

[peskypesky]

2 Months now on 300mg WB SR and I am discovering a part of me I never know existed. After a 40 years in a depression since childhood and never knowing it I am surprised by who I am and thrilled.

Congratulations! It's always great to hear another success story. Coming out of the darkness of depression is truly an amazing experience. We are so lucky to be living at a time when there are so many effective treatments for this terrible illness.

I myself have been on Wellbutrin SR for the past 6 years. I vary the dose between 150mg and 300mg but have never really noticed a difference.

My first AD was Zoloft, which I started taking about 16 years ago! Hard to believe it's been THAT long. Zoloft was incredible and pulled me out of crippling, suicidal depression. I stayed on it for about 7 years, then switched to Paxil because it supposedly helped to alleviate social phobia. I didn't notice any difference between Zoloft and Paxil.

I stopped taking Paxil and switched to Wellbutrin because I had gotten into a serious relationship, and Paxil was suppressing my sex drive too much. You know there's something wrong when you have a gorgeous girlfriend and you don't want to have sex with her! The SSRI's are great at fighting depression, but for me, the suppression of libido was harming my relationship.

So I switched to Wellbutrin and was glad to find that the depression stayed away and the sex drive came back with a vengeance! :)

Unfortunately, recently I have recently begun to feel the creep of depression back into my life. Problems sleeping, hopelessness, irritability, etc. For this reason, I am contemplating getting back on an SSRI...I worry about the sexual side effects, but I've heard that taking Wellbutrin along with an SSRI helps with that problem.

If anyone has experience with a combo like that, I'd love to hear about it.

[Mimen]

What a blast from the past That was actually my post you commented on!

In answer I use an SSRi Zoloft with WB and Remeron quite successfully. Zoloft 50mg and WB 300mg in the morning and 30mg Remeron at night.
The drive is a bit diminished but not that much that it stresses me out.

Please dont wait to long before you go back for help, I noticed the anger and irritability creep back but waited a month before I went back for help. its not worth it, go now. Play around with taking the SSRI early morning or late night to see if there is a difference.

[redflbomb]

I used to stress about affording my meds.. and now I don't because I don't think they make a difference. I used to wonder whether I would be on meds for life, and pay for meds before rent etc., so I guess I am writing to let anyother who may be in my former situation know that you are probably just as well without them. FYI, I was on Paxil and Wellbutrin (mutually exclusive) most of the time with a stint on lamictal and something else I can't recall.

[dthden66]

I'm thankful I gave wellbutrin a try. I have suffered from IBS or irritable bowel syndrome for years and finally got sick of feeling awful all the time. I am taking generic Budeprion XL 150 mg's by Teva. I am feeling better and better every week.. Really seems like a great AD.



[quote name='lizard' date='Jul 8 2004, 07:10 PM' post='48808']
+---Topic: Positive Stories about Wellbutrin started by lizard
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Posted by: Bettina01 on Mar. 25 2004,19:12

Hi everyone,

I've been taking Wellbutrin XL 150 mg per day for 24 days now. Occasionally I take two of them in one day (300 mg total), and then return to taking the 150 mg per day. I'm also taking .5 mg of Klonopin (an anti-anxiety med) at night. So far I'm very happy with the results. I have virtually no side effects other than the good ones: losing weight and having more energy and motivation. On this antidepressant I feel more emotional than before. I laugh more and cry more, but don't feel depressed. It's a welcome difference from the medication I was taking previously, Prozac, which dulled my emotions. I'm very glad this forum was here to help me choose this medication. Hopefully the positive effects will continue and I will be able to post on this "positive stories" thread again sometime in the future.
 

[JWIII]

Hi all, new to this board, and have a few questions....

I have what I describe as situational depression...ie certain overwhelming life events have triggered it..lots of crying in my car, crying while watching Forrest Gump, crying at my desk....waking up and crying and throwing up.....5 years ago, I suffered a debilitating bout of depression caused by a work situation that lifted eventually....During my childhood, I've recalled off and on bouts as well..this time around my dispensing psychiatrist recommended I take Wellbutrin XL (generic Teva) in addition to my regular dose of chlonazapam 2 mgs I take throughout the day(I've taken it for 3 years for generalized anxiety and has worked well....I'm a worrier of epic proportions)...he recommended 100 mgs first 4 days, and upped it to 200mgs which I started yesterday....so far no discernible side effects but a little jittery in am....I take dosage very early...6am ....I take a 1 mg dose of Chlonazepam in evening so I have not had issues with sleeplessness...

Have some Qs and hope you can help me by answering

1) why is the concensus that the generic is not as effective?...I can afford the name brand but have a feeling my doc would laugh at me if I advised him of this...I take generic diabetes drugs for my type 2 , and theyre just as effective
2) those of you that post here, would you describe your depression as situational or more clinical?....My depression creeped up on me as some overwhelming events in my life (my job started sucking more, my son was diagnosed with autism, my house flooded due to my water heater bursting)
3) I will begin to speak to a psychotherapist Tuesday, which I get 20 sessions per year from my insurance, in which they pay 1/2....With the economy and my job shaky, I would rather save $ and speak to this person for a finite number of visits....Overall, do you think psychotherapy is as important as chemical (wellbutrin) help?
4) On average, how long do you think before I start feeling better...I need to, for the sake of quality of life and my family...I feel such a sense of loss every day I feel like this, like life is passing me by....
5) I am 43 and since the depression has creeped up, I've had less of a libido....please note that I am a type 2 diabetic so wondering if thats a factor...I can perform no problem, orgasm, but I'm not the horny beast I once was...How prevalent is the positive libido enhancing side effects of the Wellbutrin XL....is it common, or perhaps not so much?

I want to get better and soon...I feel very guilty that I am not 100% for my family, as they depend on me so much....

I look forward to making friends on this board.....Thank you for reading and replying in advance

Edited by JWIII, 12 October 2008 - 01:39 PM.

[masmith]

The one piece of advise I can give is to hang in there. I personally know that the waiting is the hardest part. When the Drs tell you it won't be working it's best for 6-8 weeks it can seem like forever. I'm at week 7 and yes it is finally working the way it should. Nearly all side effect are gone that I had in the beginning.

[dthden66]

Hello, I've been taking WB XL 150 mg's for a couple months now and overall my experience has been positive. Initially this drug did make me very jittery however at this point I feel no ill side effects at all. In fact I have less anxiety now than when I was not on it. It takes at least a month or more before you see good results I think. I definitely have less depression and I think my depression is probably clinical low grade. The main thing I notice is I'm not as bothered about the little stuff anymore I just don't stress about as much which has been positive. As far as generic versus brand name, I"ve tried both and to be honest I felt better on the generic which goes againt what I"ve read on this site but just goes to show each drug formula affects people differently.

Hi all, new to this board, and have a few questions....

I have what I describe as situational depression...ie certain overwhelming life events have triggered it..lots of crying in my car, crying while watching Forrest Gump, crying at my desk....waking up and crying and throwing up.....5 years ago, I suffered a debilitating bout of depression caused by a work situation that lifted eventually....During my childhood, I've recalled off and on bouts as well..this time around my dispensing psychiatrist recommended I take Wellbutrin XL (generic Teva) in addition to my regular dose of chlonazapam 2 mgs I take throughout the day(I've taken it for 3 years for generalized anxiety and has worked well....I'm a worrier of epic proportions)...he recommended 100 mgs first 4 days, and upped it to 200mgs which I started yesterday....so far no discernible side effects but a little jittery in am....I take dosage very early...6am ....I take a 1 mg dose of Chlonazepam in evening so I have not had issues with sleeplessness...

Have some Qs and hope you can help me by answering

1) why is the concensus that the generic is not as effective?...I can afford the name brand but have a feeling my doc would laugh at me if I advised him of this...I take generic diabetes drugs for my type 2 , and theyre just as effective
2) those of you that post here, would you describe your depression as situational or more clinical?....My depression creeped up on me as some overwhelming events in my life (my job started sucking more, my son was diagnosed with autism, my house flooded due to my water heater bursting)
3) I will begin to speak to a psychotherapist Tuesday, which I get 20 sessions per year from my insurance, in which they pay 1/2....With the economy and my job shaky, I would rather save $ and speak to this person for a finite number of visits....Overall, do you think psychotherapy is as important as chemical (wellbutrin) help?
4) On average, how long do you think before I start feeling better...I need to, for the sake of quality of life and my family...I feel such a sense of loss every day I feel like this, like life is passing me by....
5) I am 43 and since the depression has creeped up, I've had less of a libido....please note that I am a type 2 diabetic so wondering if thats a factor...I can perform no problem, orgasm, but I'm not the horny beast I once was...How prevalent is the positive libido enhancing side effects of the Wellbutrin XL....is it common, or perhaps not so much?

I want to get better and soon...I feel very guilty that I am not 100% for my family, as they depend on me so much....

I look forward to making friends on this board.....Thank you for reading and replying in advance

[crashtst]

Firstly, this forum is infinitely helpful, in so many ways.

Unfortunately, it seems as though so many posters are having a TOUGH go of it; some doing poorly, some better - but not 100%.

I'd be the first to say that - so far - being 3 weeks on 300 mg of Wellbutrin, that I feel far better than I did without it. But I don't feel anywhere near 100%, the Frontal Lobes still seem pretty dull; not activated.

I wonder whether 1) Whether anyone has felt this?, 2) Are there any online forums with 100% successful AD users, 3) Any other valuable online sites for depression?

Thanks, and per the forum topic, so far so good with Wellbutrin. But even though I'm 60% better, I refuse to live with anything less than 100%.

[Professorben112]

I've been on 150mg Budeprion XL for just shy of 3 weeks now, and so far.. well, it was quite a ride, to say the least.

The first couple days were great. After that things were mostly down, but with very slight ups. In the past, my depression episodes lasted a few days each week, but it seems like now they aren't lasting quite as long.

crashtst, I'd definitely say that I'm at the same point. My brain still feels quite numb and my thinking processes are still slow. But I'm hoping to see results in the coming weeks.
And I'm sure you will too.

[SoulSearching]

Thank you all for the se positive stories. They truly lift my spirits. I am adding budeprionxl tmrw and was absolutley terrified but after finding this site I am hopeful

[JJ67]

It's great to see so many success stories. I had been searching on Budeprion XL and read mostly horror stories. Thanks everyone for sharing and helping this scary girl!

[bittermuse]

Wellbutrin has been wonderful for me. I have been taking some form of Wellbutrin for about a year now. I have had depression/ seasonal affective disorder for a long time; my high school years were very difficult. College was begining to be a disaster as well; even though I managed to get into a really good college, I had no motivation to learn, interact socially, or enjoy life. Now, one year later, everything is different. I do well in school, I have confidence, motivation, and I'm just happy. I never though in the middle winter I could be this happy.

[stevejones]

Wellbutrin has been a life changing drug for me. I had had a complete lack of motivation, focus and drive for quite some time. Felt sluggish, depressed , afraid to make any real moves with my life. I am young (27) and I tried lexapro which made me so freaking depressed it was scary. I dont even understand how that could be considered an antidepressant as it made me so tired and took away all my drive and motivation. I literally thought I was in a day dream like 75 percent of the day. I decided antidpressants were not for me until my doctor recommended wellbutrin. I said I would try it and stop immediately if I did not like it.
Really upon the first day of taking wellbutrin I felt more energy, confidence and felt like my old self. Definately at first there is some agaitation and trouble sleeping but now I am on 150 2x daily and have no problems sleeping, the anxiety has gone away. Although the energy rush is not as powerful, it is still there. I no longer have to waste money on coffee and redbull to get me going.
I have since changed jobs and made the more to new york which I have always wanted to do. I am very social again, and find that I dont really have to drink to have fun anymore. I only have a few beers when im out with friends. Also for the guys out there, my libido is back ten fold. Prior to I was having major problems with my girlfriend because lack of interest and sexual problems because of the depression. Now it is almost the opposite, she thinks I want it too often!
Basically I describe it to people as a good form of adderall. I used to take adderal for ADD for several years. Although it did make me focus and study like crazy in college, the side effects were awful. Dry mouth , complete lack of appetite ( almost felt like I was forcing food down), sexual problems, real agitation, horrible crash coming off it. Also when your on it you kind of keep to yourself and are just focused on studying ect, not really social. Wellbutrin on the other hand makes me completely focused at work but AlSO very active socially. You have minor dry mouth and it decreases appetite but only to the point where you are not hungry all the time but still love to eat. The crash is not nearly as bad and sexually, for myself at least it is better than any performance enhancer out there,
Good luck to anyone trying it , I understand that every person is different and may not work, but if you can get past the initial side effects , there are a ridculous amount of benefits from the drug.

[Darken]

It's great to read all these positive stories about Wellbutrin in this topic. There is no doubt it can be a tough drug to start off with, but the longterm benefits are wonderful.

For myself I almost didn't notice the benefits as the initial weeks rolled along, but the people around me sure did...and friends on here as well. Sometimes when your in a really dark place its hard to realise your comnig out of it. In any event after several months of success, I wasn't totally out of my depression so Lexapro was added and so far it's been a success. The Wellbutrin gives me energy during the day and the lexapro calms me down at night...they seem to compliment each other well and offset some of the SE's that they can cause.

Keep the stories coming, it's very encouraging for our members looking to start up or wondering what to expect

[MezzoMorto]

It's great to read all these positive stories about Wellbutrin in this topic. There is no doubt it can be a tough drug to start off with, but the longterm benefits are wonderful.

For myself I almost didn't notice the benefits as the initial weeks rolled along, but the people around me sure did...and friends on here as well. Sometimes when your in a really dark place its hard to realise your comnig out of it. In any event after several months of success, I wasn't totally out of my depression so Lexapro was added and so far it's been a success. The Wellbutrin gives me energy during the day and the lexapro calms me down at night...they seem to compliment each other well and offset some of the SE's that they can cause.

Keep the stories coming, it's very encouraging for our members looking to start up or wondering what to expect

im on day 10......im in the crash period of WB (not as bad as before without WB)......thats why I joined this forum. I was really disappointed that i lost the happiness and energy that WB first gave me....but after reading what everyone else said about their experience, it seems im experiencing the same things. So thanks to you all im optimistic about wellbutrin and im sticking with it!

[Darken]

im on day 10......im in the crash period of WB (not as bad as before without WB)......thats why I joined this forum. I was really disappointed that i lost the happiness and energy that WB first gave me....but after reading what everyone else said about their experience, it seems im experiencing the same things. So thanks to you all im optimistic about wellbutrin and im sticking with it!

Good to hear! Wellbutrin can be a big tease at first with the quick effects you get of improvement, fortunately its also a good sign that in the long term you should do well on it. It may not be as 'intense' as when you started but it definitely helps in the longrun from my experience. As you can see there is some great information to help you through the startup, but ask away if you don't uncover something that your going through we have many members here who can relate their expereince to you. Good Luck!

[kiu6ywb]

Hello to everybody

I am on zyban for 1 month I can't tell you that I feel it positive effect now ( I take 3 meds for depression and 1 mood stablizer ) But I tried a lot of combinations like nicotinstikers with nicotin inhaler and I failed to get of from my heavy

smoking ( 2-3 boxs per day)

but with zyban it became very easy to get of from cigarets I now use a nicotin stick + nicotin inhaler ( a little use of it )

and now I am 3 weeks without smoking and it seems to be an easy task to quite smoking

may God bless this med

kiu6ywb

[Darken]

kiu6ywb,


So glad to hear of your success in trying to quite smoking. Zyban has certainly been known to help, but it sounds like you found a combination of methods to help you out. Thanks for sharing your positive story and good luck in your continued battle.

[enors412]

I have heard many good things from Seroquel and Wellbutrin and I start tomorrow. 150mg Wellbutrin and 75mg Seroquel throughout the day. I hope I can join the rest of you and beat this nasty depression. You almost want to feel sorry for yourself with this crap but we all know that only makes things worse, worse, worse, lol. Hey ATLEAST IT'S NOT AUTISM!!! Poor chaps Thank you everyone again for the hope. Hope isn't easy to come by if you are depressed.

[lostsoul21]

well hello all yall!! im on day 7 of taking (WB) i know it has been only a week but i feel like its been a year. in this one week i have felt ups and downs of different side affects from; headaches, to my ears ringing, i get like dizzy/light headed if i look somewhere too quick....etc. i do have a little bit more acne then before...if anyone has a remedy to get rid of this LET ME KNOW lol....other then that well the occasional dry mouth. (not a biggy) i am hoping, from reading past forums that these side affects will subside and i will be better. Depression has been kicking me in the butt for many yrs and i took the stand to fight it!! im going to keep my mind set that this will help me, and be positive.. To me i think it has alot to do with your mental understanding.....it you go into something with a positive attitude the end results will be positive. Whereas if you have a negative outlook you'll get negative feedback also. im just ready to be happy again! :))