Depression help

Hi Everyone, I'm pretty new to this forum, but everything I've read so far has been very helpful. I was just wondering if anyone is currently taking wellbutrin xl for depression. Before my surgery, I weaned myself off of Zoloft and Wellbutrin xl. However, now 6 weeks after surgery, I can't even stand to be around myself. I'm cranky all the time. I thought I would try going back on the Wellbutrin xl because it always worked well for me and I didn't have any side effects like I did with the Zoloft. Is anyone else on the Wellbutrin xl? Is it working for you? Any advise would be appreciated. Thanks, Deanna

I started taking a generic Wellbutrin - Buprobion a couple of weeks after my surgery. My surgeon wanted me to be on an antidepressant before surgery because I have a history of depression and he said WLS can trigger depression. I started Cymbalta before surgery and still got depressed after surgery. Now I'm taking both and feel better - even though I had a 2 week stall in weight loss. Is xl the extended release kind? I've read that we shouldn't take extended release because of absorbtion issues - maybe it was something to do with the coating on extended release tablets.

Sheryl is correct that we aren't supposed to take extended release tablets. My suggestion would be to call your surgeon or PCP and have them write you a new prescription so that you're sure it's the right stuff for you at this point and you can monitor it with them involved. Hormones are going crazy....no use complicating it with an incorrect medication. Christina S

Deanna, I've had excellent luck with Effexor. It has combines the benefits of the SSRI's like Prozac and Zoloft on your serotonin levels, plus the norepinephrine that Welbutrin effects. And I hear you about going into a deep depression after surgery. OY!

Thanks for your response. It sounds like just what I need. I was just afraid to go back on anything like the Prozac or Zoloft because of the side effects. But, it sounds like this might work. I'll check it out. Thanks! Deanna

I am back on my Welbutrin XL, as of 1 and a half weeks ago. I also take Glucophage XL, as well as a ton of other stuff. I can't wait til I can give up some of these meds! I take them with a drink in the morning and hold off at least an hour before having my cereal. My surgeon never said anything about not taking extended meds. He did say to take a chewable vitamin and TUMS for calcium instead of that kind that is like a caramel. Maybe this is because I am on lapband?