Posted by Dr. Beth Steinhauer on December 22, 2004, at 11:28:18
In reply to Re: Steinhauer--Wellbutrin and bulimia?, posted by Racer on December 22, 2004, at 1:16:34
Wellbutrin (bupropion) was about to be released to market in 1986, but its release was delayed when it was recognized that it increased the risk of seizures. It was eventually discovered that this risk was dose-related (i.e. the higher the dose, the higher the risk) and that certain populations, such as bulimic women, were also at higher risk. This is because bulimic people often have disordered electrolytes, as their body chemistry is affected by vomiting and laxative/diuretic abuse. Wellbutrin's release to market was delayed until 1989, and the Physicians' Desk Reference still states that Wellbutrin is contraindicated for people with a current or previous history of anorexia or bulimia. The seizure risk is approximately 4/1000 people.
Your doctor likely chose Wellbutrin for you because s/he was unaware that you are actively bulimic. Wellbutrin is an excellent antidepressant with a favorable side effect profile (no sexual side effects, doesn't cause weight gain, enhances alertness and energy). However, for people who struggle with eating disorder symptoms, SSRI antidepressants, e.g. Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft and the like, are thought to be more effective.
I'd recommend that you let your psychiatrist know that you have resumed bingeing and/or purging, so that s/he can reassess the choice of medicine for you.
Best of luck with your recovery!
poster:Dr. Beth Steinhauer
thread:432534
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/eating/20041128/msgs/432877.html