Wellbutrin, also known by its generic name bupropion, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat depression and support smoking cessation. However, it’s also known for its ability to aid in weight management and alleviate anxiety symptoms. If you’ve recently started taking Wellbutrin, you might wonder how to tell if it’s working. Understanding the signs of its effectiveness can help set your expectations and guide conversations with your healthcare provider.
In this blog, we’ll explore the signs that indicate Wellbutrin is making a difference in your mental health and weight loss journey, as well as what to do if it stops working. We’ll also compare it to alternatives like Auvelity, offering insights to help you make informed decisions.
Wellbutrin doesn’t provide immediate results. Many patients begin to see improvements within 2-4 weeks, with full effects often taking 6-8 weeks. Factors such as dosage, metabolism, and individual health conditions can impact the timeline.
When Wellbutrin begins to work, you may notice subtle improvements in mood, energy levels, and overall outlook on life. These changes often build gradually over weeks. Some common indicators include:
While Wellbutrin is not explicitly approved for weight loss, some patients report it as a beneficial side effect. Weight changes typically become noticeable after 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use. Signs that it may be supporting your weight management goals include:
Clinical studies support these observations. One review published in 2024 in Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome looked at data from 25 trials involving over 22,000 participants. The results showed that bupropion helped people lose weight and reduce waist size compared to those who did not take the medication [1].
Another study from 2001 found that women who took bupropion lost more weight over eight weeks than those who took a placebo. Those who continued taking the medication saw even greater benefits over time [2].
Additionally, research published in the American Family Physician in 2015 highlighted how combining bupropion with another medication, naltrexone, helped adults with higher body mass indexes (BMI) manage their weight [3].
A large study involving several U.S. clinics found that participants using the naltrexone-bupropion combination experienced an average weight loss of 2.7% within three months. About 29% of participants lost more than 5% of their body weight [4].
In a separate 24-week study, bupropion was shown to be effective and well-tolerated for weight loss. Those taking doses of 300 mg and 400 mg daily achieved weight reductions of 7.2% and 10.1%, respectively, with sustained results over 48 weeks [5].
Maintaining realistic expectations is essential when considering Wellbutrin’s impact on weight. Weight loss varies by individual and often requires combining medication with healthy lifestyle choices, such as balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.
Although Wellbutrin is not typically prescribed as a primary treatment for anxiety, it can indirectly help by stabilizing mood and energy levels, which may reduce the frequency of anxious thoughts and improve emotional resilience over time. Signs that it might be helping include:
For those taking Wellbutrin for depression, positive changes may take several weeks to become evident. Key indicators include:
While Wellbutrin is well-tolerated by many, some side effects may occur, such as:
If side effects become bothersome or severe, consult your healthcare provider to explore possible adjustments.
Suppose you notice a return of symptoms or feel that Wellbutrin is no longer effective. In that case, some common signs might include increased feelings of sadness or anxiety, decreased energy, difficulty concentrating, or renewed cravings for nicotine. In such cases, consider the following steps:
Auvelity is a newer medication that combines bupropion (Wellbutrin) with dextromethorphan to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). Here’s a comparison:
Your healthcare provider can help determine which medication best fits your needs.
Recognizing the signs that Wellbutrin is working can be a valuable part of your treatment journey. Whether your goals are weight loss, anxiety relief, or overcoming depression, this medication may offer meaningful support when used correctly.
If you’re considering Wellbutrin or have concerns about its effectiveness, scheduling a consultation at our Best Weight Loss Medication Clinic can provide personalized guidance. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your wellness goals through tailored solutions.
Take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life by scheduling a consultation at our Best Weight Loss Medicine Clinic. Our expert team offers personalized treatment plans and ongoing support to help you achieve your wellness goals.
1. Liu, Y., Han, F., Xia, Z. et al. The effects of bupropion alone and combined with naltrexone on weight loss: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of randomized controlled trials. Diabetol Metab Syndr 16, 93 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13098-024-01319-7
2. EARLY J, WHITTEN JS. Naltrexone/Bupropion (Contrave) for Weight Loss. American Family Physician. 2015;91(8):554-556. Accessed January 12, 2025. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2015/0415/p554.html#afp20150415p554-b2
3. Shibuya K, Ali KF, Ji X, et al. THE BENEFIT OF SHORT-TERM WEIGHT LOSS WITH ANTI-OBESITY MEDICATIONS IN REAL-WORLD CLINICAL PRACTICE. Endocr Pract. 2019;25(10):1022-1028. doi:10.4158/EP-2019-0081
4. Anderson JW, Greenway FL, Fujioka K, Gadde KM, McKenney J, O’Neil PM. Bupropion SR enhances weight loss: a 48-week double-blind, placebo- controlled trial. Obes Res. 2002;10(7):633-641. doi:10.1038/oby.2002.86
5. Gadde KM, Parker CB, Maner LG, et al. Bupropion for weight loss: an investigation of efficacy and tolerability in overweight and obese women. Obes Res. 2001;9(9):544-551. doi:10.1038/oby.2001.71
At Best Weight Loss Medication we are committed to providing you with the best medical care as well as weight loss medication for a fraction of the price!
Copyright © 2025 Weight Loss Clinic Los Angles | All Rights Reserved.
