Posted by JohnL on October 24, 1999, at 4:23:38
In reply to Wellbutrin for the long haul?, posted by ellen on October 23, 1999, at 18:03:47
Hi Ellen. Both St James and Elizabeth are a wealth of information. Hopefully they'll show up with some suggestions on further research for this topic. They've both given me outstanding tips on research.
Meanwhile, here's my hypothesis on the situation. Bear in mind it's just a guesstimate based on things I've read over time concerning Wellbutrin.
I've read that Wellbutrin early on has dopamine enhancing characteristics, but with continued use actually decreases dopamine synthesis. I have heard the complaint several times of Welbutrin making one feel stupid. But the complaints always came later in treatment. Not early. Thus my guess it is related to the mention of decreased dopamine synthesis over time. Decreased dopamine in senior citizens is hypothesized as a cause of mental deterioration.
If this guess is correct then a dopamine enhancing drug would reverse the symptom. The safest one that comes to my mind right away is Selegiline. It is used primarily for Parkinson's disease, but also as monotherapy or as an adjunct for depression. Could help with depression and boost mental function simultaneously. It is often used in senior citizens for that very purpose. And it's side effects are very mild. I believe it would be safe with Wellbutrin, much safer than with an SSRI, and only small doses would be needed anyway. Probably in the 5mg to 15mg per day range.
There are herbs that might help too. Gingko Biloba, Ginseng, Huperzine come to mind. I wouldn't go out and try them all at once. If you wanted to try herbs, choose one (gingko would be my first choice) and give it a good 6 weeks. Anyway, just some thoughts to ponder.
poster:JohnL
thread:13717
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19991016/msgs/13747.html