Inadvertently Consumed 450 mg of Wellbutrin Instead of 150 mg – What Should I Expect?
I am a 20-year-old female who accidentally ingested 450 mg of Wellbutrin rather than my usual dose of 150 mg. How long will it remain in my body? What symptoms or side effects should I be aware of?
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 5:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
Accidentally taking a larger dose of Wellbutrin (bupropion) than prescribed can lead to increased side effects and may pose risks, depending on your individual health circumstances. Here's what you should know and do:
Main Points:
- You may experience heightened side effects due to the overdose.
- Symptoms can include agitation, increased heart rate, seizures, nausea, and more.
- It’s essential to monitor yourself closely and be aware of severe symptoms.
Explanation:
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that affects brain chemistry, and taking 450 mg instead of 150 mg exceeds the usual therapeutic dose. While the body metabolizes medications at different rates based on numerous factors like age, weight, and overall health, Wellbutrin has a half-life of about 21 hours. This means it can take several days for the medication to fully clear from your system.
The increased amount can lead to side effects, which can be particularly concerning. Common side effects from Wellbutrin include insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, and increased sweating. In higher doses, there is a risk of more serious effects such as seizures, high blood pressure, or arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat).
Next Steps:
-
Self-Monitoring: Pay close attention to your body. Watch for symptoms like:
- Agitation or irritability
- Heart palpitations or an unusually fast heartbeat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures (if you have a history of seizures, this is particularly critical)
- Any severe headache or visual disturbances
-
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body process the medication.
-
Avoid Triggers: Steer clear of alcohol, recreational drugs, or stimulants, which can increase the risk of serious side effects.
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Environment: Ensure you are in a safe environment. Avoid activities requiring concentration, like driving, until you feel stable.
-
Emergency Preparedness: If you develop severe symptoms such as seizures, chest pain, persistent vomiting, or if you feel very unwell, seek emergency help immediately.
Be mindful of how you're feeling, and if you're at all concerned about your symptoms, don't hesitate to contact a healthcare professional for personalized advice. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with medication.
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