Can Pristiq and Wellbutrin be taken together? (+3 risks)

In this article, we will discuss whether or not Pristiq can be taken with Wellbutrin, possible interactions between Pristiq and Wellbutrin, the advantages of using Pristiq and Wellbutrin together, the risks and side effects of using Pristiq and Wellbutrin together, and important precautions to consider when combining Pristiq and Wellbutrin.

Can Pristiq and Wellbutrin be taken together?

Yes, Pristiq and Wellbutrin can be taken together. This combination can occasionally be used for certain individuals who aren’t responding to one medication in treating their depressive symptoms.

Pristiq is the brand name of the antidepressant medication desvenlafaxine. It belongs to the class of drugs known as SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors). Pristiq functions by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. (1)

Wellbutrin is the brand name of the antidepressant medication bupropion. It belongs to the class of drugs known as NDRIs (Norepinephrine and Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors). Wellbutrin functions by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. (2)

Pristiq and Wellbutrin have different mechanisms of action, but they are both used in the treatment of MDD (Major Depressive Disorder). Taking them together can increase their effectiveness in treating depressive symptoms.

However, it is important to be aware of the potential drug interactions and side effects while taking them together. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects while using them. They can monitor your side effects and adjust your dose as needed.

Does Pristiq and Wellbutrin interact together when combined?

No, there are no drug interactions found between Pristiq and Wellbutrin. As previously mentioned, both medications function by increasing neurotransmitter levels in the brain, but they function in distinct ways. (3)

Whereas Wellbutrin largely affects norepinephrine and dopamine, Pristiq mostly affects serotonin and norepinephrine. The efficacy of treating depression and other mood disorders may be improved by combining Pristiq and Wellbutrin.

However, as with any drug combination, you should be aware of any possible adverse effects that may arise while combining them, and contact your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects when taking them together.

What are the advantages of using Pristiq and Wellbutrin together?

There are certain advantages of using Pristiq and Wellbutrin together such as: (4), (5)

• Increased effectiveness: The combination of Pristiq and Wellbutrin can result in better control of depressive symptoms, as they both enhance the levels of certain neurotransmitters that are responsible for controlling mood and energy levels.

• Treating different symptoms of depression: Wellbutrin can help regulate and improve your mood, while Pristiq can help improve the feeling of well-being and increase your energy levels.

• Quitting smoking: Wellbutrin is FDA-approved for smoking cessation. If you smoke and suffer from depression, combining Wellbutrin and Pristiq can help treat your depressive symptoms and can help you quit smoking.

• Treating resistant depression: Combining Pristiq and Wellbutrin can help in treating resistant depression that is not adequately treated with a single medication.

What are the side effects of using Pristiq and Wellbutrin together?

There are several side effects of using Pristiq and Wellbutrin together, some of which include: (4), (6)

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Xerostomia or dry mouth.
• Night sweats.
• Dizziness and headaches.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Weight changes. Pristiq can cause weight loss, while Wellbutrin can cause weight gain and bloating in certain individuals.

Serious side effects

• Serotonin Syndrome. Combining Pristiq and Wellbutrin can result in a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome as both medications increase the levels of serotonin. The symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, muscle rigidity, confusion, hypertension, SOB (Shortness of Breath), and tachycardia.

• Suicidal thoughts: Taking both medications can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts as well as other mental conditions such as long-lasting confusion, hallucinations, and excessive euphoria.

• Seizures: Both Pristiq and Wellbutrin can increase the risk of seizures, especially when they are taken at higher doses.

• Blurred vision or vision changes. Some individuals may experience widened pupils, pain, swelling, and inflammation around the eyes.

• Bleeding from any of your body parts such as black stool or blood in the feces or urine, menstrual changes, coughing up blood, or black vomit.

It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these side effects.

Important precautions to consider when taking Pristiq and Wellbutrin together

There are several precautions and tips to consider when taking Pristiq and Wellbutrin together such as: (4), (6)

• Take the medications at the same time every day and as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure a consistent drug concentration in your body.

• Do not abruptly discontinue any of the medications. If you want to discontinue any of the medications, consult your healthcare provider. They will gradually reduce your medication dose over weeks or months to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

• Steer clear of alcohol and opioids when combining Pristiq and Wellbutrin as they can increase the risk of overdose and adverse effects.

• Be cautious when driving or operating vehicles as both Pristiq and Wellbutrin can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and sedation.

• Seek medical attention immediately if you experience serious side effects such as long-lasting confusion, excessive bleeding, suicidal thoughts, or signs of serotonin syndrome like agitation, hypertension, or muscle rigidity.

• Inform your healthcare providers about any medications or supplements that you take to avoid possible drug interactions and adverse effects.

• Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions that you have to adjust your medications’ dosage and avoid their accumulation in your body.

Based on my knowledge and research, Pristiq and Wellbutrin can be taken together in patients with persistent depression. 

It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s guidelines, take the medications as prescribed, follow the precautions and tips while taking Pristiq and Wellbutrin, and report any side effects that may arise while taking Pristiq and Wellbutrin together to get the best treatment results.

References