How Long Does Wellbutrin Stay in Your System? 2025 Updated
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Giordano, DO
It's a big step to come off any psychiatric medication. Tapering off medications can be challenging journey.
If you are looking to come off Wellbutrin, it is important to understand the mechanism and functioning of the medication and the importance of gradual tapering process.
One of your biggest concerns would be “How long does Wellbutrin stay in your system?”.
According to NLM, Wellbutrin has a half-life of approximately 21 hours.
This means it can take up to 7 days for Wellbutrin to leave your body completely (Source: NLM).
However, if you're looking to taper off the medication we highly recommend not to stop it abruptly.
You're not alone in this experience--many have faced similar challenges and have navigated them successfully.
For professional guidance, you can book a session with Dr. Giordano here.
As sudden discontinuation of any drug can cause serious side effects, also known as withdrawal symptoms, understanding these implications is important.
We'll look at Wellbutrin and its possible side effects, its half-life, how long Wellbutrin stays in your system, and some simple practical tips.
Knowing what to expect can empower you to take charge of your mental health journey and make the transition smoother.
This comprehensive guide will help you to have an overview of the tapering terrain and will prepare you for a smoother transition off the medication.
What Is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin's generic form is called Bupropion and is an antidepressant that affects neurotransmitters in the brain.
It has been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for the treatment of depression including major depressive disorders and seasonal affective disorder.
But this prescription medication isn't like other drugs.
That’s mainly because it works a little differently, making it a go-to option for some and a no-go for others.
It is also sold under the brand names;
Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin SR
Wellbutrin XL
Zyban
Bupropion hydrochloride
There is a difference between Wellbutrin SR (or Bupropion SR) and Wellbutrin XL.
Both of these contain the same active ingredient.
The difference comes in absorption rates and dosage schedules.
SR is taken twice a day while XL is taken once daily.
Both types have a different release time in the system.
Mechanism of Action:
Wellbutrin is classified as an NDRI (norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor).
Norepinephrine and dopamine are two important neurotransmitters when it comes to mood and concentration.
Wellbutrin affects these neurotransmitters in the brain.
This is also why Wellbutrin differs from other types of antidepressants called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which target serotonin).
Due to its mechanism of action, Wellbutrin may particularly cause a boost in one's energy level.
A Common Misconception:
Wellbutrin is not a controlled substance, yet it can cause false positives for amphetamines on certain drug tests.
This confusion can easily be cleared up by a more precise test.
How Long Does Wellbutrin Stay in Your System?
Wellbutrin Half-Life Breakdown:
Several factors can influence how long Wellbutrin stays in your system. The most important is its Half-Life.
Wellbutrin doesn’t just disappear from your body the moment you stop taking it.
The length of time it takes for your body to remove half of the drug (known as its half-life) depends on the type of Wellbutrin you are taking.
Immediate-Release: Half life of approximately 21 hours.
Active Metabolite (hydroxybupropion): The active metabolite stays in your system for 33 to 37 hours.
Full Elimination: It takes about 6 to 7 days for Wellbutrin (and its metabolites) to leave your bloodstream.
Detection:
Detection times for Wellbutrin in various fluids and tissues are noted below:
Detection in Urine:
According to urinary excretion studies, Wellbutrin can stay detectable in the urine for up to 4 days after the last dose.
Urine Testing is the most common type of drug testing as it is quite non-invasive (though it can sometimes lead to a false positive result).
Detection in Blood:
After the last dose of Wellbutrin, it is detectable in the blood for 2-4 days.
Detection in Saliva:
Saliva testing can show traces of this drug for 4.4 days.
Detection in Hair:
Hair can retain evidence of this antidepressant medication for up to 90 days.
Factors Affecting How Long Wellbutrin Stays in Your System
Liver & Kidney Function: Your liver breaks down the drug and the kidney functions to filter these out through the urine. If either one of the organs is not functioning properly, then Wellbutrin’s duration in your system can be made longer.
Metabolism: Wellbutrin’s elimination half-life varies by person. Those who are faster metabolizers will clear it out quicker.
Age: Older adults may retain the drug longer. This is because, as compared to young adults, these individuals can have slower clearance rates.
Dosage/Duration: A higher dose of Wellbutrin and long-term use extend the already long time required for full elimination of the drug.
Drug Interactions: Certain treatment options or medications (like MAOIs or SSRIs selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or substances like alcohol can slow the drug clearance time and increase the risk of seizures.
Weaning off Wellbutrin: Why is it necessary?
Abruptly stopping Wellbutrin can be unsafe. Here's why:
Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms:
This medication should not be stopped abruptly as it can cause one to experience withdrawal symptoms that can be mild to severe.
A whole range of Wellbutrin withdrawal symptoms may occur including:
Dizziness
Fatigue
Nausea or loss of appetite
Headaches
Dry Mouth
Sore throat
Chest pain
Sweating or chills
Insomnia
Mood swings
High Blood Pressure
Anxiety
Depressed mood
Suicidal thoughts
Managing the Underlying Conditions:
A gradual, hyperbolic tapering schedule of making 5-10% reductions at a time and holding for 4-6 weeks between reductions can help your body adjust at its own pace and reduce the potential for withdrawal symptoms.
Emotional Support:
As you taper off the medication, emotional support is important.
Frequent and consistent check-ins with your healthcare provider can allow you to discuss your symptoms, feelings and concerns, and track progress to make any adjustments in your treatment plan as needed.
The key is to follow medical advice from a trusted healthcare professional who understands the importance of psychiatric medication tapering.
Quitting any antidepressant drugs cold turkey can increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms and make the process even more challenging.
Tapering Tips to Prevent Withdrawal Symptoms
Collaborate with your trusted provider who understands medication tapering:
Make regular visits to your healthcare provider a part of your routine.
Gradual reduction:
Cutting back slowly can help avoid any serious side effects or withdrawal symptoms.
Making 5-10% reduction every 4-6 weeks can help your body adjust at its own pace and reduce the potential for withdrawal symptoms.
This pace of reduction is only a reference range and should be determined between you and your provider based on the tapering pace that you can tolerate.
Monitor symptoms:
Keep a journal of any changes, be it in your mood or physical health, to discuss with your doctor.
Stay informed:
Knowledge can be empowering.
Do your research on your prescription drug to understand what to expect on this journey of tapering off.
Seek support:
Having a strong support system can help ease any anxiety related to weaning off.
Stay connected to people you feel you can trust such as friends, family, therapists, or support groups.
If you are looking for a dedicated space for your tapering, there are treatment centers which provide that support.
Special Populations: Who Needs Extra Caution?
Certain conditions can raise the need for extra consideration when dealing with Wellbutrin.
People who require this extra caution are discussed below:
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding:
Research is limited. This is why the FDA advises caution when using Wellbutrin during pregnancies. (Source:Drugs.com).
Always consult your doctor before use.
Bipolar Disorder:
Wellbutrin can trigger mania.
Close monitoring is essential especially if you have a history of bipolar disorder.
Seizure History:
This drug lowers the seizure threshold.
Those with a history should use it only under strict medical supervision.
Addiction Treatment:
People undergoing addiction treatment should consult their healthcare provider before stopping Wellbutrin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Wellbutrin cause weight gain?
Not usually. It is more commonly inclined to cause weight loss than weight gain, but everyone reacts differently.
Does Wellbutrin help with ADHD?
Wellbutrin has some off-label uses, including ADHD. Some find it helpful with focus and motivation, while others don't notice a difference. However, it is not FDA-approved for this use and should be consulted with a healthcare provider before use.
How to speed up elimination?
The best way to quickly eliminate Wellbutrin from your body is to eat a liver-friendly diet and avoid anything that slows metabolism. If you take Wellbutrin to quit smoking, be mindful that the nicotine can also impact the medication’s processing time. Staying hydrated is also important.
Conclusion:
Taking care of your mental health may have challenges but you don't have to do it alone. Both you and your healthcare provider play a crucial role in creating the right plan for you, especially when you are working to reduce or stop your medication.
Getting educated is the first step toward a healthier transition off the medication. Finding the right healthcare professional who understands you and has the expertise to guide you is essential.
If you’re ready to taper off Wellbutrin or need support, book an appointment with Dr. Giordano today for personalized guidance. Your mental health is worth it.
