Posted by BekkaH on May 3, 2003, at 12:20:38
In reply to initial depression on wellbutrin, others?, posted by Hattree on May 1, 2003, at 9:43:02
> > I ask this question from time to time about Wellbutrin or any AD--has anyone had the experience of a medication causing worse depression in the first few days, but ultimately working well?
************************************************
Hi Hattree. I haven't been keeping up on this board as much as I used to, so I can't remember whether you just got off of a stimulant, before starting on Wellbutrin. Remember that withdrawing from a stimulant can cause depression by itself, regardless of what medication you do or do not switch to. When you're used to stimulants, especially if you've been on them a long time, it is very difficult to keep in mind that antidepressants just don't "kick in" as fast as stimulants. Wellbutrin, Strattera and all the other AD's don't provide the immediate or nearly-immediate gratification that dexedrine, adderall or methylphenidate are known for. Although most AD's have some immediate effects, the full effects are not seen for weeks. I do think that at the outset, Wellbutrin, in particular, can worsen depression in some people. I think that might be because, unlike so many other AD's, it is activating. When you're still depressed and/or withdrawing from stimulants, that activation can be more like irritation and agitation in susceptible people. For example, if something is bothering you before you start on WB, then initially Wellbutrin might intensify those feelings. For many, Wellbutrin is NOT calming, and it may exacerbate pre-existing anxiety. Also, if Wellbutrin is interfering with your sleep, that can make you feel more depressed. Unless it is absolutely unbearable, I think you just have to wait a few more weeks to know for sure.
poster:BekkaH
thread:223623
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030429/msgs/224053.html