Key Takeaways
- Stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey increases the risk of seizures, which is the most serious potential complication.
- Abrupt discontinuation can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms within 24-48 hours of the last dose.
- Bupropion has a dose-dependent seizure risk — the higher the dose being discontinued, the greater the danger.
- Studies show that gradual tapering reduces withdrawal severity by 60-70% compared to abrupt cessation.
- Rebound depression — a return of depressive symptoms more severe than before treatment — is common after sudden discontinuation.
- The FDA explicitly warns against abrupt Wellbutrin discontinuation on the drug's prescribing label.
What Happens When You Stop Wellbutrin Cold Turkey?
Stopping Wellbutrin (bupropion) cold turkey means discontinuing the medication suddenly without gradually reducing the dose. While some people may consider this approach to avoid a lengthy taper, abrupt discontinuation carries significant health risks.
When you take Wellbutrin regularly, your brain adjusts its dopamine and norepinephrine systems to account for the medication's effects. Removing the drug suddenly creates a neurochemical imbalance that your brain is not prepared to handle, leading to a range of withdrawal symptoms and potential medical complications.
Seizure Risk
The most serious risk of stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey is seizures. Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, meaning it makes seizures more likely during both use and abrupt discontinuation. This risk is dose-dependent — individuals stopping higher doses (300-450mg) face a greater risk than those on lower doses.
While the overall seizure risk during proper use is approximately 0.4%, the risk increases with sudden discontinuation, particularly in individuals with other seizure risk factors such as alcohol use, eating disorders, or a history of head trauma.
Rebound Depression and Anxiety
Many people who stop Wellbutrin abruptly experience rebound depression — a return of depressive symptoms that may be more intense than the original condition. This occurs because the brain's neurotransmitter systems are suddenly deprived of the chemical support the medication provided.
Rebound anxiety is equally common, with many individuals reporting heightened panic, restlessness, and worry within days of stopping.
Other Cold Turkey Withdrawal Symptoms
Additional symptoms of abrupt Wellbutrin discontinuation include:
- Severe irritability and emotional outbursts
- Intense fatigue and lethargy
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Vivid nightmares
- Brain zaps (electrical shock sensations)
- Flu-like symptoms (body aches, sweating, chills)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Appetite changes and weight fluctuations
If you or a loved one is facing these challenges, learn more about speak with our clinical team about safe options available at Trailhead Treatment Center in Salem, NH.
Why Do People Stop Cold Turkey?
People may stop Wellbutrin abruptly for several reasons:
- Running out of medication without getting a refill
- Side effects that feel unbearable
- Believing they no longer need the medication
- Financial barriers to continued prescriptions
- Lack of awareness about the importance of tapering
Regardless of the reason, stopping cold turkey is never the recommended approach.
The Safe Alternative: Gradual Tapering
The safest way to discontinue Wellbutrin is through a gradual dose reduction supervised by a healthcare provider. A typical taper takes 2-6 weeks, depending on your current dose and how long you have been taking the medication. Your doctor can create a personalized schedule that minimizes withdrawal symptoms while ensuring your mental health remains stable.
Trailhead Treatment Center provides evidence-based medication management programs to support lasting recovery and wellness.
Conclusion
Stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey is dangerous and can lead to seizures, severe withdrawal symptoms, and rebound depression. If you want to stop taking Wellbutrin, always consult with your prescribing physician first and follow a gradual tapering plan. If you are struggling with medication dependence or need support during discontinuation, Trailhead Treatment Center provides professional medical supervision and therapeutic support.