Can Wellbutrin be taken at night? (+3 insights)

In this brief article, we will answer whether Wellbutrin can be taken at night or not. We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of taking Wellbutrin at night. Additionally, this article will explore research findings about the effects of  Wellbutrin when it’s taken close to bedtime.

Can Wellbutrin be taken at night?

Yes, Wellbutrin can be taken at night. Wellbutrin can be taken at any time of the day. Wellbutrin is typically prescribed to be taken once or twice a day in two doses at least 6 hours apart. You can take one tablet dose in the morning and the other one in the evening. This depends on the formulation of Wellbutrin that your healthcare provider prescribes for you.

The timing of taking Wellbutrin should always be discussed and prescribed by a healthcare provider based on the individual’s needs and responses. Wellbutrin can have stimulating effects on some individuals. Taking it too close to bedtime might interfere with sleep and cause insomnia, nightmares and disrupted sleep patterns. For this reason, healthcare providers often recommend taking Wellbutrin in the morning or early afternoon to reduce the likelihood of sleep disturbances. (1)

What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking Wellbutrin at night?

Many individuals opt for morning doses to align with their daily routines. However, some people wonder about the possibility of taking Wellbutrin at night. Individual’s responses to Wellbutrin vary widely. Taking Wellbutrin at night may provide relief for some individuals while others don’t. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of taking Wellbutrin at night: 

      Advantages

• Enhanced sleep: Taking Wellbutrin at night may help in alleviating insomnia or sleep disturbances associated with depression.

• Reduced daytime side effects: Taking Wellbutrin at night can minimize potential side effects during waking hours. These side effects include dizziness and dry mouth. (2,3)

• Better compliance: Individuals with busy mornings can forget to take their medication. It’s easier for them to add Wellbutrin to their bedtime routine to remember the medication consistently.

       Disadvantages

• Insomnia: While some individuals experience improved sleep with nighttime dosing, others might find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Insomnia can be a common side effect of Wellbutrin. (3)

• Nightmares: Wellbutrin can cause nightmares or vivid dreams which may disrupt sleep and cause distress. Taking Wellbutrin at night increases the likelihood of nightmare occurrence. (4)

• Missed doses: Inconsistent evening routines lead to missed doses. If Wellbutrin is not taken consistently at the same time every night, its effectiveness may decrease.(1)

what does the research suggest?

Clinical studies show that bedtime Wellbutrin is a very effective therapy for treating morning sleep inertia. Morning sleep inertia is marked by impaired performance and a strong desire to go back to sleep (5). Another study shows that when Wellbutrin is taken at night, it can cause episodes of sleepwalking. (6)

There are several reported cases of Wellbutrin causing nightmares. Taking the Wellbutrin dose in the morning can help overcome the incidence of nightmares, but not everyone responds in the same way. (4)

When Wellbutrin is prescribed to be taken once daily, it’s better to take your dose in the morning. You can take it before or after food. In case you experience nausea, you can take your dose after food.(1)

Does the timing of taking Wellbutrin affect drug efficacy?

No, the timing of taking Wellbutrin does not affect its efficacy. Yet, experiencing side effects from taking Wellbutrin at night may disrupt the individual’s ability to adhere to the medication. Taking Wellbutrin at the same time every day helps maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. This consistency is crucial for the medication’s efficacy. Missing doses or taking them at irregular intervals can disrupt the therapeutic effect and also may lead to fluctuations in mood and symptoms.

People mostly favor the use of ( Wellbutrin XL). This formulation is prescribed to be taken once daily. Individuals adhere better to medications taken only once a day. As a result, better efficacy of Wellbutrin is observed with this formulation.(3)

Conclusion

In summary, you can take Wellbutrin at night. However, you should be aware of the side effects it can cause such as sleep disturbances, nightmares and insomnia. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about the timing and dosage of Wellbutrin. If you have any concerns, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider before making any alteration to your regimen.

References