Posted by Tony P on May 13, 2004, at 21:52:57
In reply to Dopamine and Neopinephrine questionshelp?, posted by morel1 on May 13, 2004, at 19:53:10
My understanding in very simple terms is that lack of dopamine at the receptors we're talking about here causes anhedonia - i.e. no pleasure, joy or zest for life; while lack of norepinephrine causes low energy, physical retardation (e.g. can't walk fast), low motivation, etc.
I've been on Wellbutrin, and the effect (after 3-5 days)is certainly stimulating, almost like Ritalin combined with a little Valium. I understand its main mechanism is indeed dopamine and NE (that's easier than spelling it <g>)activation, although the details get a bit too complicated for me.
I suspect it CAN activate serotonin too, as I had a bad reaction when I took Serzone with it, something very like Serotonin Syndrome happened, although I suppose it might have been just too much NE too.
I felt great, although a bit hyper and anxious on Wellbutrin. Unfortunately, my experience was NOT good for insomnia -- the activation kept me going all night like the Eveready Bunny, so I had to take other meds to get any sleep. I even tried taking it last thing at night, because the sedative effect kicks in before the activation - but then I woke up after 5-6 hrs.
My response was extreme, though, judging by other posts here - your idea that it may tire you out enough to sleep well might just work for you. Maybe also try adding moderate exercise (but not last thing at night) if you're not doing much already. I didn't do enough exercising myself, but I know it does help -- I sure had the energy for it, I just got my priorities wrong and got obsessed with other activities, like posting on Psychobabble!.
Tony
poster:Tony P
thread:346577
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040510/msgs/346609.html