Wellbutrin SR – tingling spine
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01/25/2007 |
Question:
I started taking wellbutrin 7 days ago, when i first started taking it, it seemed like my anxiety got worse for a few days, but what is the reason that my spine & neck are tingling, it almost tickles but it causes me not to be able to sleep, then i get paranoid thinking the medicine is going to paralyis me. how long do these side affects last?
Answer:
Wellbutrin (generic bupropion) has been noted to worsen depression, especially at the beginning of therapy, and at dose changes.
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. The side effects are listed in Medline Plus. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
More common:
- agitation
- anxiety
Less common:
Rare:
- confusion
- extreme distrust
- fainting
- false beliefs that cannot be changed by facts
- hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there)
- seizures (convulsions), especially with higher doses
- trouble in concentrating
Incidence not determined:
- actions that are out of control
- anger
- assault
- being impulsive
- chest pain or discomfort
- fast or pounding heartbeat
- inability to sit still
- irritability
- need to keep moving
- nervousness
- restlessness
- sweating
- talking, feeling, and acting with excitement
Symptoms of overdose may be more severe than side effects seen at regular doses, or two or more may occur together. The following are some symptoms of overdose:
- fast heartbeat
- hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there)
- loss of consciousness
- nausea
- seizures (convulsions)
- vomiting
Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:
More common:
- abdominal pain
- constipation
- decrease in appetite
- dizziness
- dryness of mouth
- increased sweating
- nausea or vomiting
- trembling or shaking
- trouble in sleeping
- weight loss (unusual)
Less common:
- blurred vision
- change in sense of taste
- drowsiness
- feeling of fast or irregular heartbeat
- frequent need to urinate
- muscle pain
- sore throat
- unusual feeling of well-being
Rarely, bupropion causes paresthesia, an abnormal sensation of touch or a feeling of numbness, tingling, burning, or prickling.
It takes at least 4 weeks to see beneficial effects. Do not stop taking suddenly. The dose should be gradually reduced. Do consult your doctor on the adverse effects that are occurring.
If you do not see any beneficial effects after a few weeks and the adverse effects do not subside, then it may be time for an alternative therapy. Your doctor will be able to help you choose the right medication for you. There are several options and may take time to find the right prescription for you.
Submitted by Cincy Lee, Pharm D Candidate, The Ohio State University
Related Resources:
For more information:
Go to the Pharmacy and Medications health topic.