I would like to hear peoples opinions on Wellbutrin for helping with depression. I have a Dr.s visit and was going to ask for a script.
I recently decided to stop with taking high doses Loperamide, have been taking it 10+ years. I would pop a handful and be good for the day, content and kind of numb to the world. I have been successfully lowering the dose, now im down to 1/4 what i was normally taking.
Around 3 weeks ago all of a sudden i started having thoughts of things that happened 20yrs ago and its really getting to me. i wake up from having dreams and im crying, Ill have negative thoughts pop up in my head and i cant stop dwelling on them. I try to take my mind off things by keeping myself busy but the thoughts just linger and no signs of getting better. I feel ok physically, but the depression is getting to me.
It's brave of you to reach out for advice and share your journey towards healing. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a medication commonly used to treat depression and has a different mechanism of action compared to many other antidepressants, which primarily work on serotonin. Wellbutrin primarily affects dopamine and norepinephrine, which can make it a good option for individuals who haven't found relief with other medications, or who are concerned about the sexual side effects often associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Regarding your specific situation, it's notable that you've been taking high doses of loperamide for a significant period. Loperamide is an over-the-counter medication primarily used to reduce diarrhea, but at high doses, it can produce euphoria or a content state by crossing the blood-brain barrier, which is not its intended use. Reducing or stopping high doses of loperamide after prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including emotional and psychological effects such as depression or anxiety, as your brain chemistry adjusts to the absence of the substance.
The symptoms you're experiencing, such as intrusive thoughts of past events, difficulty controlling negative thoughts, and emotional distress, can be part of the withdrawal process but also signify underlying issues that need to be addressed, potentially including depression.
Here's how Wellbutrin might fit into your situation:
- Efficacy for Depression: Wellbutrin is often prescribed for depression and can be particularly helpful for those experiencing lethargy or a lack of interest in daily activities since it tends to be more stimulating than other antidepressants.
- Low Risk of Certain Side Effects: It generally has a lower risk of sexual side effects and weight gain compared to other antidepressants, which can be a significant consideration for many individuals.
- Substance Use Considerations: It's crucial to discuss your history of substance use with your doctor, as this can influence the choice of medication. Wellbutrin has a somewhat complicated relationship with substance use disorders; while it can be beneficial for some, it may not be the best choice for everyone.
- Withdrawal and Emotional Processing: The process of lowering your loperamide use and the emotional resurgence you're experiencing might be linked. Wellbutrin could potentially help with depressive symptoms, but therapy or counseling might also be beneficial in processing the emotions and memories resurfacing after years of being numbed.
When discussing Wellbutrin with your doctor, it will be important to provide a full picture of your health history, including your use of loperamide, any other substances, and your experiences with depression and emotional processing. This will help your doctor recommend the best treatment plan, which may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
Finally, remember that recovery and healing are deeply personal and can take time. It's commendable that you're taking steps to address your health and well-being, and seeking professional guidance is a positive move forward.
