Wellbutrin Side Effects: What to Expect
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The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only.
Their inclusion does not guarantee they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers.
Wellbutrin, or bupropion hcl (hydrochloride), is an antidepressant that is FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and as an aid in smoking cessation . It has also been used for many off-label treatments under the supervision of a healthcare professional, like ADHD and anxiety.
Wellbutrin treatment may cause many side effects that can range from mild to severe and temporary to long-term. Being aware of common side effects like nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth can help you prepare for ways to manage them. Also, knowing how to spot more severe, life-threatening side effects is an important part of taking any medication. Be sure to fully understand all risks associated with taking Wellbutrin before starting treatment, and work with your healthcare provider in person or virtually to ensure safe and appropriate use.
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Wellbutrin (Bupropion) Side Effects
Wellbutrin works to manage symptoms by changing how certain neurotransmitters act in the body. When compared to other antidepressants, it is unique in which neurotransmitters it affects. While its specific action is not well understood, studies have shown that Wellbutrin acts on noradrenaline and dopamine.
Studies have also shown that as Wellbutrin is broken down in your body, the remaining chemicals also affect neurotransmitters, and can also contribute to side effects experienced.
Common Side Effects
If these side effects do not go away or become too much to manage, reach out to your physician:
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Headache
- Nausea
- Sore throat
- Weight changes
- Sweating
- Increased heart rate
- Abnormal (weird) dreams (more common when used as an aid for smoking cessation)
Wellbutrin Side Effects in the First Week
During the first week of treatment with Wellbutrin your body is adjusting to the effects of the medication. Often, side effects can be more pronounced, and, since they may be your first time experiencing them, more difficult to deal with. Always keep track of side effects you experience to communicate with your healthcare provider during check ups. Additionally, if your physician increases or decreases your dose, you may experience a surge in side effects very similar to the first weeks of treatment.Â
It is important to remember that common non-serious side effects experienced during the first weeks of treatment gradually decrease over time. However, if they don’t subside or are too severe to function normally, you should reach out to your healthcare provider immediately.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines and falls under the category of controlled substances. The medication is also sold under the generic name alprazolam. The FDA approved Xanax for the short-term treatment of anxiety disorders. It is also sometimes used off-label for conditions like insomnia, depression, and premenstrual syndrome.
How Does Xanax Work?
Xanax is a short-acting central nervous system depressant. It enhances the activity of an inhibitory neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is responsible for reducing the activity of certain neurons: it inhibits nerve transmission in the brain, which leads to calming and anxiolytic effects. It relaxes the body and reduces anxiety symptoms.
What Conditions Qualify for Xanax?
Xanax is often prescribed for short-term treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. Generalized anxiety disorder is associated with marked worry and anxiousness for prolonged periods. Panic disorder is characterized by panic attacks accompanied by intense feelings of terror or fear.
It is sometimes possible to get prescribed Xanax for depression off-label when it coexists with anxiety. However, alprazolam is not commonly prescribed for depression as there are more appropriate medications available to treat the disorder. Its use for depression is highly controversial because it has a high potential for abuse and may worsen depressive symptoms in some individuals.
Xanax may also be prescribed off-label in some individuals with insomnia due to its sedative effects; however, generally, it is not recommended for treating sleep disorders. The medical need for a Xanax prescription can only be determined by licensed healthcare professionals.
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How to Get Xanax Prescribed Online
If you have been previously prescribed Xanax and need to continue treatment, you may be able to get a prescription for Xanax online by following the steps listed below. Note that if you are just starting your anxiety treatment, you should rely on the doctor’s choice of the most suitable medication for you, which may or may not be Xanax. The choice depends on many factors including your symptoms, diagnosis, and health history.
- Step 1. Create an account on MEDvidi and fill in your intake form and other documentation to join the platform.
- Step 2. Book an appointment with a qualified healthcare professional by choosing the most convenient date and time.
- Step 3. Connect with a provider through a video call. They will analyze your symptoms, make a diagnosis based on your evaluation, and provide you with an online prescription if deemed medically appropriate.
- Step 4. Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your response to treatment and renew your prescription if required.
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Xanax Cost
Different factors can affect the cost of Xanax tablets in your particular case, from the prescribed dosage to your location to insurance coverage (including varied policies and requirements of different insurance providers). For example, the cost of a 30-day supply of 0.25 mg Xanax tablets ranges from $168 to $204, while the same supply of 0.5 mg tablets will cost from $207 to $248, depending on the pharmacy. Note that these are not exact prices, and it’s recommended to contact your pharmacy to get the most up-to-date information.
Xanax Dosage
According to the label, Xanax dosage can differ depending on the condition, medication form (immediate-release or extended-release), sensitivity to the effects of alprazolam, and the need for early discontinuation. Your healthcare provider will choose an appropriate dosage based on the assessment of your general health and mental health. They will also instruct you on dealing with missed doses and provide other necessary instructions.
Please contact your healthcare provider if you notice the symptoms of Xanax misuse: preoccupation with the medication, severe withdrawal symptoms when stopping the treatment, the desire to take higher doses, and other disturbing behaviors.
Xanax Side Effects
The most common side effects of Xanax are the following:
- Nervousness
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Palpitation
- Lethargy
- Lack of coordination
- Forgetfulness
- Slurred speech
- Increased libido
Another strongly associated adverse effect to consider is benzodiazepine withdrawal . Alprazolam is a CNS depressant, so individuals abruptly reducing or stopping it may experience withdrawal symptoms . These include seizures, suicidal thoughts, excessive sweating, trouble sleeping, and headaches. To avoid such consequences, always follow the directions of your clinician on tapering off the medication and promptly report adverse reactions.
Do You Need a Prescription for Xanax (Alprazolam)?
Yes, Xanax is a prescription medication. This implies that in order to lawfully obtain it from a pharmacy, you would need a valid prescription from a qualified healthcare provider, such as a primary care provider or a mental healthcare provider.
Because alprazolam is a benzodiazepine, it has an extremely high potential for abuse and dependence. Because of its sedative effects and the high risk of misuse and abuse, it is prescribed cautiously and for intermittent and short-term use, often not exceeding two weeks in duration. Obtaining Xanax without a prescription is illegal.
Who Can Prescribe Xanax?
Since alprazolam is a controlled substance, only licensed medical professionals can prescribe it. In the United States, psychiatrists, medical doctors, and advanced practice medical professionals, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, can prescribe it. The list of authorized professionals may vary depending on state laws.
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Who Shouldn’t Be Prescribed Xanax?
While Xanax can effectively manage several conditions in the short-term, certain individuals should not use it. Others may require careful consideration and monitoring when taking it. Examples include the following:
- Allergies or sensitivities. People who have previously had hypersensitivity or an allergic reaction to alprazolam or other benzodiazepines shouldn’t take it.
- Respiratory issues. Xanax can adversely affect breathing, so anyone with respiratory problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or sleep apnea requires careful monitoring when using this medication.
- Liver or kidney problems. Since the liver is primarily responsible for metabolizing Xanax, people with severe liver disease should use this medication cautiously or not at all. Similarly to this, dosage modifications may be necessary for people with severe kidney dysfunction.
- Substance use disorders. Particularly in people with a history of drug use disorders or addiction, Xanax has the potential to be abused and become addictive . In these circumstances, it should be used sparingly or avoided completely.
- Age. The sedative effects of Xanax are typically more potent in older persons, which might raise the risk of falls, disorientation, and other side effects. For this population, lower doses are necessary and for these reasons, it is rarely deemed safe to prescribe Xanax in this population.
In addition, taking Xanax during pregnancy is generally not advised due to potential hazards to the growing fetus. The medication might also enter the breast milk and impact the nursing child. Consult your doctor to know what medication is suitable in this case.
Remember to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, including any health conditions and medications you are taking, to avoid interactions and learn more about contraindications and risks.
Interactions With Other Medications
Other sedatives, anticonvulsants, certain antibiotics, antifungal medicines, and some antidepressants can all interact with alprazolam. These combinations may intensify negative effects or alter the metabolism of Xanax or co-administered medications. Using benzodiazepines like Xanax together with opioids is dangerous: it can lead to stronger sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and even death.
Alternative Treatments for Anxiety
Depending on the diagnosis and individual health history, a medical professional may prescribe other benzodiazepines, such as Valium (diazepam) or Ativan (lorazepam), among others. However, benzodiazepines are usually prescribed for short-term treatment of anxiety because they carry risks of tolerance and dependency. They may not be suitable for individuals with a history of substance abuse or certain health conditions, such as respiratory issues, sleep apnea, and liver disease.
For long-term anxiety management, it’s more common to consider the following options:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), escitalopram (Lexapro). They are not habit-forming and can be used over a longer period compared to benzodiazepines.
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): such as venlafaxine (Effexor) or duloxetine (Cymbalta).
- Buspirone: has lower risks of dependency and sedation compared to benzodiazepines.
Pharmacological treatment combined with psychotherapy can lead to better results. Talk therapy itself, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and problem-solving therapy (PST), proved to be effective too. Other commonly recommended types include exposure therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapies.
In addition, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes. For example, exercise and healthier eating patterns can be helpful in addressing the symptoms of anxiety and stress-related conditions.
The Bottom Line
Today, you can get prescribed Xanax online, if required, after connecting with a healthcare professional. A doctor will evaluate your symptoms, render a diagnosis for your condition, and offer a course of treatment. Contact us to consult with qualified medical experts.
FAQ
Why won't doctors prescribe Xanax?
Given the potential for dependence and abuse, doctors may exercise extra caution when recommending benzodiazepines like Xanax (alprazolam). Benzodiazepines carry a high risk of addiction and can result in cognitive impairment, sedation, and sleepiness. They are often administered for brief periods of time and for specific ailments, including panic attacks and anxiety disorders.
Is Xanax used long-term?
No, Xanax is not usually used as a long-term treatment. It’s not known if it is safe to take it for more than 10 weeks for panic disorder or more than 4 months for generalized anxiety disorder.
When stopping Xanax, you’ll likely do it slowly using a taper schedule. This will help decrease your risk of withdrawal symptoms (these are side effects that can happen when you stop taking a medication your body has become dependent on). Talk with your doctor about your dosage taper schedule.
How can I legally get Xanax?
You require a legitimate prescription from a qualified healthcare provider in order to purchase Xanax or any other prescription medication legally. It is advised that you speak with a healthcare provider if you are exhibiting signs of anxiety or other mental health problems. Note that there are different treatments for anxiety, including other medications and non-pharmacological options. Booking an appointment doesn’t guarantee obtaining a Xanax prescription because the decision is at the discretion of a healthcare provider and is based on a health assessment.
Can I buy Xanax online?
You can purchase Xanax online from a legitimate pharmacy and by prescription provided by a licensed medical professional. Online pharmacies that sell prescription medications without valid prescriptions may be operating illegally and may offer products that are fake or of poor quality. Self-medication without appropriate medical supervision can also be harmful to your health. For Xanax to be obtained legally and safely, it is imperative to speak with a healthcare provider and receive a valid prescription.
How to get Xanax prescribed through telehealth?
Yes, doctors that have specific authorization can prescribe Xanax online. It requires having a video appointment with a healthcare provider, discussing the symptoms and health history, and choosing appropriate treatments.
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