Posted by Iansf on August 27, 2003, at 16:00:43
In reply to Re: Seizures with Wellburtrin, posted by Caleb462 on August 26, 2003, at 21:59:21
> From what I understand, the seizure risk of Wellbutrin is quite exaggerated. At *reccomended doses*, it has a seizure risk that is no different than other available anti-depressants. I believe the SR version of Wellbutrin actually has a LOWER seizure risk than most of the SSRIs. Granted, I could be wrong...>
My psychiatrist also told me the risks of seizure from Wellbutrin are generally exaggerated. Furthermore, he said the seizures from Wellbutrin in and of themselves are not particularly dangerous, though ancillary effects -- such as losing control of your car -- obviously could be extremely dangerous.
In addition, he said Wellbutrin's true antidepressant effect does not kick in till the 800-1200mg/d range, and most doctors, including him, are unwilling to take the legal risk of prescribing it at those doses. He does, however, prescribe it at a dose of 600mg/d, which is 33% above the recommended upper limit.
As an alternative to boosting Wellbutrin beyond 600mg/d, he has suggested combining it with Strattera, since both meds work on norepinephrine. I haven't tried that, but I'm considering it. I take Wellbutrin at 600mg/d and find it moderately effective at reducing depression but far from satisfying. On the positive side, I experience absolutely no side effects from it.
poster:Iansf
thread:254440
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030823/msgs/254782.html