Does Wellbutrin cause spotting? (+7 factors)
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 discuss the potential effects of Wellbutrin on menstrual cycles, particularly whether Wellbutrin causes spotting. This article will explore the research studies and what to do when you experience spotting issues.
Does Wellbutrin cause spotting?
Yes, Wellbutrin may cause spotting. Spotting is light bleeding between menstrual periods. Spotting is not commonly reported as a side effect of Wellbutrin; however, the occurrence of spotting differs from one individual to another.
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, including dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. Wellbutrin is commonly used to treat depressive symptoms and aid in smoking cessation.
Spotting associated with antidepressants is an infrequent side effect. The occurrence of spotting is dose-dependent, thus adjusting the medication levels can influence this side effect. The advantages of antidepressants may surpass the potential and preventable side effects when dose adjustments are appropriately implemented.(1)
How does Wellbutrin cause spotting?
Antidepressants with serotonergic effects can induce vaginal bleeding through their impact on gonadal hormones. Changes in serotonin levels might affect the delicate balance of reproductive hormones.
Studies suggest that Wellbutrin can indirectly increase the transmission of serotonin in the body. Because Wellbutrin exhibits serotonergic effects, it could potentially induce bleeding abnormalities by influencing the gonadal hormones.
Another mechanism that Wellbutrin contributes to spotting is by enhancing the dopaminergic neurotransmission. Increased dopaminergic activity can impair platelet functions. However, the exact mechanism remains unclear. (1)
What does the research suggest?
Studies were made on 98,027 individuals who experienced side effects while using Wellbutrin. Among them, 200 females experienced vaginal bleeding between periods. Spotting was notably observed in individuals aged 30-39 who had been on the medication for less than one month.(2)
There is limited direct evidence linking Wellbutrin to spotting or changes in menstrual patterns. However, there is an increasing number of case reports associated with vaginal bleeding after using various antidepressants.(3)
What factors affect spotting while taking Wellbutrin?
Spotting while taking Wellbutrin may be influenced by various factors. Potential factors include:
- Individual variances: Individuals react differently to medications. Some individuals may experience spotting and menstrual cycle irregularities while others do not.
- Hormonal changes: Wellbutrin’s impact on neurotransmitters can indirectly influence hormonal balance, potentially affecting the menstrual cycle.
- Stress levels: Individuals experiencing heightened stress while taking Wellbutrin may be more prone to spotting.
- Underlying health conditions: Certain medical conditions, unrelated to Wellbutrin, could contribute to spotting.
- Age and reproductive stage: Age-related factors and an individual’s reproductive stage can majorly contribute to spotting.
- Nutritional factors: Diet and nutrition can impact hormonal health. Nutritional deficiencies can cause spotting. (4)
What to do if you experience spotting while taking Wellbutrin?
If you experience spotting while using Wellbutrin, it’s important to take certain steps to address the issue. By collaborating with your healthcare provider, addressing potential causes and considering adjustments to your treatment plan, you can manage the side effects of Wellbutrin. Here are general few tips on what to do:
- Consult your healthcare provider: Inform your healthcare providers about spotting and other side effects you are experiencing to get the best guidance. Your healthcare provider would adjust the dosage and monitor your body’s response.
- Monitor and record: Take note of when spotting occurs and how long it lasts. This is important when reporting the issue to your healthcare provider.
- Provide medical history: Share your complete history of previous issues with menstrual cycles and reproductive health with your healthcare provider.(4)
- Discuss lifestyle factors: You also have to report the lifestyle factors that might influence your menstrual cycle, such as stress levels, changes in weight and physical activity.
- Pelvic exam and Pap smear: Your healthcare provider may recommend these tests to assess your reproductive health.
- Medication review: Review your entire medication regimen with your healthcare provider. Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can interact with Wellbutrin and contribute to side effects. (5)
- Consider alternative treatments: If spotting associated with Wellbutrin continues, your healthcare provider may explore alternative antidepressant options or adjust the dosage. Alternative antidepressants may include trazodone and mirtazapine.
- Do not discontinue or adjust your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
To sum up, Wellbutrin may cause spotting due to its effect on the serotonergic system that influences the gonadal hormones. Remember that every individual is unique and the best course of action will depend on your specific situation.
In my opinion, consulting with your healthcare provider is crucial for a thorough evaluation and appropriate guidance based on your health profile.
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References
1.-
Javors MA, Houston JP, Tekell JL, Brannan SK, Frazer A. Reduction of platelet serotonin content in depressed patients treated with either paroxetine or desipramine. Int Neuropsychopharmacol 2000;3(3):229-235
https://cms.behmedicalbulletin.org/Uploads/Article_52862/Bagc%C4%B1larMedicalBulletin-7-288.pdf
3.-
Durmaz O, Çelik S. Vaginal bleeding associated with antidepressants. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2015;130(3):284.
https://cms.behmedicalbulletin.org/Uploads/Article_52862/Bagc%C4%B1larMedicalBulletin-7-288.pdf
4.-
Saei Ghare Naz M, Farahmand M, Dashti S, Ramezani Tehrani F. Factors Affecting Menstrual Cycle Developmental Trajectory in Adolescents: A Narrative Review. Int J Endocrinol Metab. 2022 Mar 2;20(1):e120438 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8994833/
5.-
Bixby AL, VandenBerg A, Bostwick JR. Clinical Management of Bleeding Risk With Antidepressants. Ann Pharmacother. 2019 Feb;53(2):186-194.
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