Wellbutrin for depression, anxiety,& PTSD

[rey]

I'm very interested in Wellbutrin for my depression which I have suffered for many years, however I am concerned that because I have a longstanding problem with anxiety and a more recent issue with PTSD it may actually make these symptoms worse.

When I have a PTSD panic attack it is so bad it borders on a hallucination and I have to take Xanax immediately to calm myself so it is very serious and I cannot do anything that might make it worse.

[keral]

If you are only treating your condition with Xanax then I would say to try an antidepressant right away. Wellbutrin (Bupropion) is normally an "add on" in case first line antidepressants don't work up to their potential. That does not mean it isn't effective on its' own, it's just more popularly prescribed in this manner (and as a smoking cessation aid)

Be careful that you don't get too dependent on Xanax to solve the panic attacks alone. The nasty side effect of this med is it will make your attacks much worse if you try to stop taking them cold turkey. Xanax is one drug that you need readily available at all times, because once you can't get some and need them, panic turns to terror rather quickly. Some doctors suggest it takes up to 4 months to properly wean off that med.

I would say if your doctor has suggested Wellbutrin then try it, if not, look into other antidepressants as well. PTSD is nothing nice, I know. I've lived with it for over 15 years.