Original article
Wellbutrin is a brand name for bupropion, a prescription medication. Alcohol can worsen its side effects, and suddenly stopping heavy drinking may create additional concern for some patients. Review alcohol treatment for women and detox guidance if drinking or withdrawal is part of the picture.
Mixing any substances is never a good idea. Mixing two antidepressants, like Wellbutrin and alcohol, is even worse, as it can increase the severity of side effects and adverse reactions. You may think that if you are suffering from depression, the more antidepressants you take, the better, but this is not the case. Ultimately, you should consult with your doctor to ensure that whatever medications you are taking are being taken correctly and that you know what you can and cannot safely take with those prescribed medications.
To find out more about the dangers of mixing alcohol and an antidepressant medication like Wellbutrin, contact the treatment team at Women’s Recovery today and enroll in dual diagnosis treatment in Colorado as soon as possible.
What Is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat depression as well as to stop smoking. It is a brand name of the drug bupropion, which is a norepinephrine/dopamine-reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). The drug helps to balance substances like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
However, like most drugs, taking Wellbutrin can also have side effects, which might include:
- Anxiety
- Dry mouth
- Hyperventilation
- Irregular heartbeat
- Body shakes
- Sleep issues
- Ringing in the ears
- Severe headache
- Rash or itching
- Fainting
- Seizures
When coupled with alcohol, the side effects can be magnified, which is why taking multiple substances at the same time is not a good idea unless prescribed by a doctor.
Dangers of Mixing Wellbutrin and Alcohol
Alcohol can also have serious negative interactions with antidepressants like Wellbutrin. If you have been prescribed Wellbutrin, you must speak with your doctor about the side effects of taking it and the dangers of mixing it with alcohol. The last thing you want to happen is have the state of your mental health be compromised. For those battling depression, managing that condition should be the top priority.
Since alcohol is also a depressant, it can actually make depressive symptoms worse. This topic are many and include the following.
Increased Side Effects
Dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness can be more severe if you drink while on antidepressants. Plus, taking two antidepressant substances at once can overload the central nervous system and compromise judgment and coordination, making the risk of injury or accidents greater.
Amplified Depression Symptoms
If you were experiencing a general loss of interest in doing things and feeling low already, these feelings can be worse if you are drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin.
Less Effective Antidepressants
Drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin can make the medication less effective, jeopardizing your health and mismanaging the symptoms of depression.
Greater Chance of Addiction
Self-medicating is not uncommon with those suffering from a mental health disorder. However, because of this dependent behavior, the risk of becoming addicted to both the drug and alcohol is great.
Enroll in Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Women’s Recovery
Substance use and mental health disorder treatment exist to help women find a healthier way of life and stay on the path to recovery after treatment. Outpatient, gender-specific programming designed by women, for women, is what Women’s Recovery is all about. Come heal in a warm and welcoming environment among other women who are there to support you through your treatment and recovery experience. Empower yourself to live a fulfilling life free of addiction.
Take the first step and contact Women’s Recovery today at 833.754.0554 to learn more about the dangers of mixing substances and how dual diagnosis treatment can benefit you. Alternatively, you can reach out online to gain more information. The treatment locations in the Denver, Colorado, area offer a unique treatment experience just for women.
