Can I Take Wellbutrin XL 150 mg Twice a Day?

The decision to increase your dosage of Wellbutrin XL, a bupropion extended-release medication, is a complex one that should always be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. This article explores the considerations involved in taking 150 mg twice daily, the potential risks, and the importance of discussing any change with your prescribing doctor.

Official Guidelines and Reasons for Caution

Contrary to popular misconception, discussing a change in dosage is not something your pharmacist can handle. The pharmacist has knowledge about your medication regimen but lacks the full medical history and context of your diagnosis. You should always speak with your treating physician before making any changes to your prescription.

For my patients, I generally recommend taking the full dosage of Wellbutrin XL, which is 300 mg, once daily. This approach is based on the 24-hour time-release mechanism of the XL formulation. The idea behind Wellbutrin XL is to provide continued effects throughout the day, ensuring steady levels of bupropion in your system without the need for multiple doses.

My Personal Experience

From my personal experience, I have taken 300 mg of Wellbutrin XL once a day for over two decades without any significant side effects. This regimen is supported by various types of doctors, from psychiatrists to internists, family practitioners, and specialists. They all agree that discontinuing this medication would be a risk due to the high impact of depression on overall health.

The "XL" formulation of Wellbutrin is designed to release bupropion over an extended period, making it suitable for once-daily dosing. Taking 150 mg twice a day may not align with the intended mechanism of action of the medication. From a cost perspective, most drugs exhibit a different cost-effectiveness when divided versus taking a single higher dose, which is usually more economical.

Understanding Potential Risks

To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the potential risks associated with Wellbutrin, and increasing the dosage can amplify these risks. Before considering any change in dosage, read up on the side effects, risks, and benefits of Wellbutrin. The article 'Bupropion: Side Effects, Dosage, Uses and More' provides comprehensive information on these aspects.

If you are thinking of increasing your dose to 150 mg twice daily, it is crucial to discuss this with your prescribing doctor. They have the necessary information to assess whether this adjustment is safe for you. Any change in medication should be made only after a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider, considering your medical history, current health status, and the potential risks and benefits. Never alter your medication dosage without consulting your doctor first.