Question:
Has anyone been prescribed wellbutrin for...

weight loss? I know it is basically the same drug as Zyban (for smoking cessation) and some doctors prescribe Zyban for weight loss. I was just wondering if it does help you lose weight and if so, how significant is the loss? I already take Zoloft, and I know they can be combined safely. Are the general side effects similar to Zoloft? Is this something I should even be considering post-op?    — Tina B. (posted on August 7, 2002)

August 6, 2002
I was on both Zoloft and Wellburtin for about 6 months after my third son was born. I didn't realize it was supposed to help weight loss. Thinking back I would have to say that I didn't gain weight as fast after his birth as I did after my other sons. Maybe it does work somewhat. I didn't lose weight, but I usually gain weight really quickly after I give birth, like 20 lbs in 2-3 months. He is 8 months old and I would say I have gained about 30 in that time (11 lbs since I have been off of it).
   — Angela A.

August 7, 2002
A few years ago, I lost about 50 pounds without trying in just a few months on Wellbutrin. It just killed my appetite. It doesn't have that effect for everybody, though. For me, the side effects were great. More energy, less appetite. It also has very positive sexual side effects. Some p-docs even prescribe it to counteract the sexual dysfunction that often accompany the SSRIs (e.g., Zoloft). The only downside for me was that Wellbutrin interfered some with my sleep (it's a very stimulating drug). I know of many WLS post-ops who take Wellbutrin without any problems. Be aware that Wellbutrin comes in two formulations. "Wellbutrin SR" is the most commonly prescribed, but it's a time-released med. You may want to ask your doctor to prescribe the regular Wellbutrin for you to ensure better absorption after WLS. Good luck.
   — Tally

August 7, 2002
I tried wellbutrin for weight loss after Phen-fen was banned. It actually seemed to work pretty well, but it gave me migraines. This is a very rare side effect, but if you try it and get a migraine, call your doctor right away.
   — Amber L.

August 7, 2002
I've been on Welbutrin SR for years and now Welbutrin. It sure has'nt cut my appetite at all. I never heard this one before. ;)
   — Danmark

August 7, 2002
I was put on wellbutrin for weight too but it was not effective for me but I know it has been for others. The side effects are similar to other SSRI's. Post-op you shouldn't need anything else other thatn to eat the right stuff for your new stomach and exercise. Good luck with whatever you decide
   — Lynn L.

August 7, 2002
Hey Tina: I was on Zoloft after my 2nd child and really gained a lot of weight. It took me about 3 more years to realize the Zoloft had an affect on my weight. I then was switched to Wellbutrin SR to help stop the weight gain. By that time, my doctor (Psychiatrist) admitted that she found a lot of evidence that Zoloft can contribute to weight gain and switched me to Wellbutrin. I am now on regular Wellbutrin (switched from timed release after surgery). I have not experienced the side effects listed. I take 2 (100's) upon waking up and 1 more 6 hours later. I hope this helps. Good Luck.
   — Dot W.

August 7, 2002
Wellbutrin is not an SSRI. It acts on the dopamine and norepinephrine systems, not on the serotonin system. It, like effexor, is known as an 'activating' antidepressant, and may be why it's linked to some weight loss. Because eating (and other pleasurable activities) increase dopamine and norepinephrine, it is thought that these antidepressants work because they increase those neurochemicals. I think you would be looking at a very modest effect for Wellbutrin on weight loss (i.e., you may lose a few pounds when you start taking it). Don't forget that weight gain can also be a symptom of depression, so it's always possible to end up losing a few pounds after going on any antidepressant. Don't get me wrong, though... I agree that people can have hugely different responses to the same drugs. Wellbutrin is also the exact same drug as Zyban (they are just marketed and prescribed differently).
   — Patricia E.