Does Wellbutrin make migraines worse?(+3 insights)
By
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii (PhD)
Author bio
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii, PhD, is a Pharmacist with expertise in Drug Design and Development, Enzymes, Molecular Modelling, and Photodynamic Therapy. She writes and reviews content on these topics.
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii’s Highlights:
- Postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo, emphasizing therapy of neglected diseases using light.
- PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.
- Six months as an international researcher at the Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases (University of California San Diego)
- Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.
- Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes – São Paulo / Brazil
Professional Experience:
2012 – 2018 Project manager at University of São Paulo – Pharmacy Department
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii has worked with computational studies, synthesis, biological evaluation, design, and development of new inhibitor candidates for Chagas Disease and Leishmaniasis.
2017 – 2017 International research fellow at University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases.
She used Virtual Screening (VS) and High-Throughput Screening (HTS) Integration in the Discovery of new drugs against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
2018 – 2019 Faculdades Oswaldo Cruz
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a professor in the Faculty of Pharmacy, teaching the subjects of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Drug Development.
2019 – 2021 Researcher in Biochemistry University of São Paulo – Biochemistry Department
She applied Photodynamic Therapy in Leishmaniasis Treatment, mentored undergraduate students in scientific activities, and wrote, executed, translated, and reported scientific projects with funding agencies.
2023-2023 UniPiaget – University Center.
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a Biology, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Pharmacy professor.
Education:
2018 -2021 Postdoctoral at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo
2013 -2018 PhD of Science: Drugs and Medicines at Department of Pharmacy at University of São Paulo
2012 -2013 M.Sc. of Sciences: Drugs and Medicines at the Department of Pharmacy at the University of São Paulo
2005-2008 Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes
The leading publications of Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii are:
Vital-Fujii, D.G, Baptista, M.S. (2021). Progress in the photodynamic therapy treatment of Leishmaniasis. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 54, 1-11.
Gatti, F. M., Gomes, R.A., da Fonseca, A.L., Lima, E.J.C., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Taranto, A.G., Varotti, F.P., Trossini, G.H.G. (2020). Antiplasmodial activity of sulfonylhydrazones: in vitro and in silico approaches. Future medicinal chemistry, 13, 233-250.
Silva, E.J., Bezerra-Souza, A., Passero, L.F., Laurenti, M.D., Ferreira, G.M., Fujii, D.G.V., et al. (2018). Synthesis, leishmanicidal activity, structural descriptors and structure-activity relationship of quinoline derivatives. Future medicinal chemistry, 10, 2069-2085.
Leite, F.H.A., Froes, T.Q., da Silva, S.G., de Souza, E.I.M., Vital-Fuji,i D.G., Trossini, G.H.G., et al. (2017). An integrated approach towards the discovery of novel non-nucleoside Leishmania major pteridine reductase 1 inhibitors. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 132, 322-332.
Vital, D.G., Damasceno, F.S., Rapado, L.N., Silber, A.M., Vilella, F.S., Ferreira, R.S., et al. (2017). Application of bioisosterism in design of the semicarbazone derivatives as cruzain inhibitors: a theoretical and experimental study. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 35, 1244–1259.
Mello, J. F.R., Gomes, R.A., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Ferreira, G.M., Trossini, G.H.G. (2017). Fragment-based drug discovery as alternative strategy to the drug development for neglected diseases. Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 90, 1067-1078.
Pantaleao, S.Q., Fujii, D.G.V., Maltarollo, V.G., da C. Silva, D., Trossini, G.H.G., Weber, K.C., et al. (2017). The Role of QSAR and Virtual Screening Studies in Type 2 Diabetes Drug Discovery. Medicinal Chemistry, 13, 706-720.
Vital, D., Arribas, M., Trossini, G. (2014). Molecular Modeling and Docking Application to Evaluate Cruzain Inhibitory Activity by Chalcones and Hydrazides. Letters in Drug Design and Discovery, 11, 249-255.
Blau, L., Menegon, R.F., Trossini, G.H.G., Molino, J.V.D., Vital, D.G., Cicarelli, R.M.B., et al. (2013). Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new aryl thiosemicarbazone as antichagasic candidates. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 67, 142-151.
You can view some of Dr Drielli’s work below and links to her professional profile.
Orcid: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9270-0466
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Drielli-Gomes-Vital-Fujii
Scopus: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=55829534000
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=F9U50AEAAAAJ&hl=pt-BR
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/driellivital
Escavador: https://www.escavador.com/sobre/6101380/drielli-gomes-vital
CDIPD: https://cdipd.org/index.php/about-us/visiting-scientists
In this article we briefly discussed the exacerbation of migraines while taking Wellbutrin, explored research findings, considered alternative medications, examined how Wellbutrin may contribute to migraine worsening, and provided insights into managing migraines while on Wellbutrin.
Does Wellbutrin make migraines worse?
No, Wellbutrin does not necessarily make the migraines worse. Wellbutrin is an antidepressant medication that is sometimes used to treat migraines. While some people may find that Wellbutrin helps reduce the frequency of migraines, others experience an increase in migraines as a side effect.
What factors can cause the worsening of migraines when taking Wellbutrin?
There are some factors to consider :
Stress
Wellbutrin can affect neurotransmitters in the brain. Stress is a common trigger for migraines, and changes in neurotransmitter levels can potentially impact migraine frequency or severity.
Dehydration
Wellbutrin might cause dry mouth, which could lead to dehydration. If not addressed. Dehydration is a known trigger for migraines in some individuals.
Sleep disturbance
Changes in sleep patterns or disturbances in sleep quality due to Wellbutrin can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. Good sleep habits might ease Wellbutrin-induced migraine triggers stemming from altered sleep patterns.
Hormonal Changes
Wellbutrin might affect hormonal levels, potentially impacting migraine frequency, especially in patients sensitive to hormonal fluctuations.
Nutritional Changes
Changes in appetite or dietary habits due to Wellbutrin could influence migraine triggers due to irregular eating patterns.
Pre-existing health conditions
The presence of pre-existing health conditions in patients also makes migraines worse while taking Wellbutrin such as cardiovascular issues, seizure disorders, and eating disorders.
What are the potential side effects of Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant medication that is generally well-tolerated by many patients. However, like any medication, it can have side effects. It’s important to note that individual responses may vary and not, everyone will experience the same side effects. Some common side effects may include:
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Dry Mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
- Increased heart rate
- Heart Burn
- Anxiety
- Weightloss
What does research suggest about Wellbutrin and Migraines?
Some studies and clinical reports indicate that Wellbutrin may have a positive impact on reducing the frequency of reducing the severity of migraines for certain people. However, individual experiences may vary and they experience a rise in migraines (1).
One research reveals a substantial reduction in migraine symptoms following the discontinuation of Wellbutrin. This study signals a potential connection between the medication and migraine exacerbation.
Clinical studies and case reports contribute further insights, suggesting that migraines can manifest as a side effect of Wellbutrin. Notably, 26% of individuals taking Welbutrin experienced a rise in migraines.
The fact that there is only a 20% higher chance of worsening migraines when taking Wellbutrin. Even though Wellbutrin does not specifically list “migraines” as a side effect, it can still lead to the emergence or worsening of migraines.
While migraines have been reported less frequently, it is important to note that individual responses can vary. If you are experiencing migraines while taking Welbutrin, contact your doctor immediately.
How does Wellbutrin potentially worsen Migraines?
Firstly, Wellbutrin affects neurotransmitters in the brain, which play a great role in pain perception and sensitivity. Changes in these neurotransmitters may influence the threshold for migraine attacks.
Secondly, Wellbutrin is known to increase the risk of headaches, including migraines in some individuals. The exact reason for this is not clear, but it could be related to the drug’s impact on blood vessels or psychological processes involved in migraine development (2).
Additionally, individual variability in drug response plays a crucial role. People react differently to medications, and while some may experience a reduction in migraines others see an increase.
The interplay between a person’s unique neurochemistry, medical history, and the specific nature of their migraines contributes to this diversity of responses. Such patient needs to consult doctors and seek guidance.
How to manage worsening Migraines while taking Wellbutrin?
If you find your migraines worsen while taking Welbutrin, consult your healthcare provider and communicate the worsening symptoms. They can conduct an assessment, and determine the most suitable course of action.
Additionally, some pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen a also be taken with the consultation of a doctor. Staying adequately hydrated is another important aspect, as dehydration can trigger migraines.
Identify potential triggers of migraines by studying the symptoms like stress, inadequate sleep, or specific foods. Minimizing these symptoms can also contribute to migraine management.
Establishing consistent sleep patterns is key, as irregular sleep can be a contributing factor to migraines. Stress reduction techniques, including deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can also help in managing migraines.
Conclusion
In my opinion, addressing worsening migraines while on Wellbutrin involves effective communication with doctors and considering adjustments in management. Lifestyle modifications and identifying triggers further contribute to the cessation of the worsening of migraines.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Knight R, Sevecke J, Hassan F, Dore-Stites D. Managing sleep or managing pain: A case report detailing a sleep intervention in a patient with comorbid pain. Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology. 2016 Jun;4(2):200. Available from: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2016-23681-001
2.-
Rapoport AM. Acute and prophylactic treatments for migraine: present and future. Neurological Sciences. 2008 May;29:110-22.Available from: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10072-008-0901-x
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
