Posted by SalArmy4me on June 19, 2001, at 15:31:20
In reply to i love topomax, posted by deeder on June 19, 2001, at 13:59:50
Here's why the "seizure risk" factor with Wellbutrin is not an issue:
In the early studies, the rate of occurence was about 0.30 percent in general patient populations at dosages as high as 900mg. This is about equal to the tricyclics. More recent studies indicate that the SR (sustained release) version of Wellbutrin at dosages up to 300mg carries no greater risk to produce seizures than most other antidepressants; the rate being about 0.10 percent. However, the rate of seizure increases significantly in people with a pre-existing seizure disorder. It is also increased when treating people who have an imbalance of electrolytes such is seen in eating disorders like bulemia. The rate of seizure also increases at dosages greater than 300mg. Even so, the rate at 450mg is no greater than that of the tricyclics. I would not want to speculate at dosages exceeding 450mg. More frequent dosing helps to minimize risk. It was during a pre-marketing investigation designed to study the efficacy of Wellbutrin in treating bulimia that seizures emerged. I think most of the bad reputation this drug has was born of that study.
poster:SalArmy4me
thread:67083
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010618/msgs/67097.html