Does Wellbutrin cause gastroparesis? (3+ tips)
By
Ivan Kahwa
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
In this article we will answer, “Does Wellbutrin cause gastroparesis?” We will discuss scientific evidence and also the potential causes of gastroparesis.
Does Wellbutrin cause gastroparesis?
No, Wellbutrin does not cause gastroparesis. There’s no strong evidence to suggest that Wellbutrin causes gastroparesis.
Gastroparesis is typically a delay in emptying the stomach, and as far as we know, Wellbutrin isn’t a known major trigger for this condition.
Wellbutrin (Bupropion) is primarily used to treat depression, anxiety, and OCD. It increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which play crucial roles in mood regulation.
Is there any potential link between gastroparesis and Wellbutrin?
Although there isn’t substantial evidence indicating that Wellbutrin directly causes gastroparesis, it’s worth noting that some individuals have reported gastrointestinal side effects while taking Wellbutrin.
The gastrointestinal side effects of Wellbutrin include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, diarrhoea, and constipation. These symptoms may mimic those of gastroparesis, but it is not established that Wellbutrin is a cause of the condition. (1)
Gastroparesis, often referred to as delayed gastric emptying, is a condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents into the small intestine. This can result in a range of distressing symptoms, including persistent nausea, frequent vomiting, abdominal bloating, and discomfort. (2)
Various factors can contribute to the development of gastroparesis, such as diabetes, previous abdominal surgeries, and certain medications.
Interestingly, Wellbutrin is known for its potential to increase appetite, which can be especially beneficial for individuals dealing with depression-related changes in appetite. (3)
While some people may experience a temporary loss of appetite when they begin Wellbutrin therapy, it’s essential to understand that this effect often subsides after an initial adjustment period.
The psychological burden on individuals coping with gastroparesis is a significant concern. Research consistently indicates the presence of depression and anxiety among those affected by gastroparesis. In some cases, these mental health factors may contribute to the development or worsening of gastroparesis. (4)
How to manage gastroparesis while taking Wellbutrin?
If you already have gastroparesis or are facing similar symptoms while taking Wellbutrin, here are some helpful tips.
Consult your doctor
This is the cornerstone of managing both gastroparesis and Wellbutrin. Regular and open communication with your healthcare provider is beneficial.
If you experience symptoms that could be related to gastroparesis or if you suspect that Wellbutrin may be contributing to digestive discomfort, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your condition, perform any necessary tests, and make informed decisions regarding your medication
Make some dietary modifications
Dietary changes are fundamental when dealing with gastroparesis. Consume smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to ease the digestive burden on your stomach. Choose foods that are easier to digest, such as well-cooked fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Avoid high-fibre and fatty foods, which can be harder to digest and may exacerbate gastroparesis symptoms. Carbonated beverages and alcohol should also be limited or avoided.
Get your medicines reviewed
If you’re taking multiple medications, you should ensure they don’t interact negatively with Wellbutrin or exacerbate gastroparesis symptoms.
The timing of your Wellbutrin doses is also critical in managing potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Taking Wellbutrin with food reduces gastrointestinal discomfort and can also help in the management of gastroparesis symptoms.
Discuss all your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to assess their compatibility and potential side effects. They may consider adjusting the timing or types of medications to minimise gastrointestinal discomfort.
Manage your stress
Stress and anxiety can significantly worsen gastroparesis symptoms. Since Wellbutrin is commonly used to manage mental health conditions, it’s vital to take it consistently as prescribed and address any psychological distress.
Consider complementary stress management techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or meditation to support digestive comfort.
What are some other causes of gastroparesis?
As stated above, depression and anxiety can cause gastroparesis and related symptoms, other than this some common causes of gastroparesis are as follows: (2)
- The most prevalent cause is diabetes. Diabetes can damage nerves in the stomach and the vagus nerve, impairing muscle function in the digestive tract.
- Certain drugs, such as opioid pain relievers, specific antidepressants, and medications for high blood pressure and allergies, may slow gastric emptying and mimic gastroparesis symptoms.
- Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia are known to cause gastroparesis.
- Certain autoimmune disorders like scleroderma can lead to gastroparesis.
- An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can be a root cause of gastroparesis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we’ve examined Wellbutrin, gastroparesis, and their potential connection.
While Wellbutrin primarily targets mental health, there’s limited scientific evidence to suggest a direct link between the medication and gastroparesis.
If you experience digestive issues while taking Wellbutrin, consulting with a healthcare professional is advised for a proper evaluation.
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