Does Wellbutrin Cause Fluid Retention? (3 Tips)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 27/01/2024 | Next review date: 27/01/2026

Author bio

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159

Ivan Kahwa

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This article will explore the question: “Does Wellbutrin cause fluid retention?” We will also discuss who is more susceptible to fluid retention and provide management tips.

Does Wellbutrin cause fluid retention?

Wellbutrin is rarely associated with causing fluid retention or edema. Edema occurs when excess fluid accumulates in tissues, resulting in painful swelling commonly observed in the ankles and feet.

There is limited evidence to suggest that Wellbutrin is linked to edema or fluid retention, and it is not typically listed as a known side effect. (1)

However, it’s important to remember that individual responses to medications can vary. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms like swelling while taking Wellbutrin, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable

What does research suggest?

There is limited research on whether Wellbutrin causes fluid retention or not. Some individual cases and information from the FDA suggest that fluid retention might be a rare side effect of Wellbutrin.

In a case reported in 2008, a person had angioedema, a type of swelling, because of Wellbutrin (bupropion). His face, lips, and tongue swelled, and he had trouble breathing and swallowing after starting bupropion for depression. (2)

The FDA’s data on Wellbutrin XL 300 mg mentions that rare cases of swelling in various body parts, like the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, have been reported. (3)

Allergic reactions to Wellbutrin can also manifest as edema or swelling in various areas, such as the face, hands, feet, arms, lips, or tongue. This allergic reaction has delayed onset and can happen after some days of starting treatment. (4)

Fluid retention can sometimes lead to rapid weight gain over a short period, but it’s important to note that Wellbutrin is generally not associated with causing weight gain.

Interestingly, depression and anxiety are also linked to fluid retention, while Wellbutrin is prescribed to treat mental health conditions.

A study found that individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) had a higher prevalence of edema compared to healthy controls. (5)

Another study in the Journal of Affective Disorders discovered that patients dealing with both heart failure and depression had a greater prevalence of edema compared to those with heart failure alone. (6)

In this case, 38.5% of patients with both heart failure and depression had edema, whereas it affected 22.2% of those with heart failure only. (6)

It’s worth noting that the exact causes of fluid retention in people with depression and anxiety aren’t entirely understood. However, it’s believed that the stress associated with these conditions may contribute to mild swelling or fluid retention.

Who is more susceptible to fluid retention while taking Wellbutrin?

Certain factors may make some groups more susceptible than others. These can include (7)

People with conditions like heart failure, kidney problems, or liver disease may be more susceptible to fluid retention when taking Wellbutrin.
Higher doses of Wellbutrin might increase the likelihood of fluid retention in some individuals.
Long-term use of Wellbutrin may raise the risk of fluid retention.
If a patient is taking other medications that can cause fluid retention, the combination may increase susceptibility.

Not everyone taking Wellbutrin will experience fluid retention, and the best approach is to discuss any concerns or symptoms with a healthcare provider.

How do you manage fluid retention while taking Wellbutrin?

Managing fluid retention while taking Wellbutrin involves several strategies. Here are some steps:

Consult your doctor

If you experience severe fluid retention while on Wellbutrin, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your condition and consider adjustments to your medication dose or alternative treatment options.

In cases of severe fluid retention, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider, as they can offer personalised guidance and consider using diuretics under their supervision.

Manage hydration and salt intake

Maintaining proper hydration is fundamental to flush out excess fluids and potentially prevent fluid retention. Reducing salt intake in your diet is also effective in averting fluid retention, as excessive salt consumption can contribute to this condition.

Regular exercise, such as brisk walks for at least 30 minutes most days of the week, promotes overall well-being and enhances circulation, reducing the risk of fluid retention.

Try leg elevation for relief

If you’re experiencing fluid retention in your legs, simple yet effective measures can provide relief. Elevating your legs above heart level for 30 minutes daily can help alleviate swelling.

Consider using compression stockings to enhance leg circulation and prevent fluid retention.

Avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing is crucial, as these practices can lead to fluid accumulation in your legs. Taking regular breaks and moving around to counteract this effect is wise.

By following these strategies and working closely with your doctor, you can effectively manage fluid retention while taking Wellbutrin.

Conclusion

The link between Wellbutrin and fluid retention appears to be quite rare. While fluid retention might be slightly elevated in individuals with a family history of cardiovascular issues, it is essential to note that this risk remains relatively low for most individuals.