Some possible effects of a Wellbutrin XL overdose include hallucinations, seizures, and problems with breathing. However, the specific effects will vary, depending on several factors, such as how much of the medication was taken and whether it was taken with any other medicines. Administering certain medications or pumping the stomach can help treat a recent Wellbutrin XL overdose.
Wellbutrin XL Overdose: An Introduction
Wellbutrin XL® (
bupropion XL) is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of
depression (also known as major depression or clinical depression). It is also used to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD). As with all medicines, it is possible to take too much
Wellbutrin XL. The effects of a Wellbutrin XL overdose will vary, depending on a number of factors, including how much Wellbutrin XL was taken and whether it was taken with any other medicines or alcohol.
Symptoms of a Wellbutrin XL Overdose
If a person overdoses on Wellbutrin XL, the symptoms can also vary. The most common Wellbutrin XL overdose symptoms include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Fainting
- A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia)
- Fever
- Muscle tension, pain, and damage
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Breathing problems
- Coma
- Loss of life.
About one-third of all Wellbutrin XL overdoses cause
seizures. Loss of life is more likely to occur if Wellbutrin XL is taken in very large doses.
Treatment for a Wellbutrin XL Overdose
The treatment for a Wellbutrin XL overdose will vary.
If the overdose was recent, the healthcare provider may use certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." Treatment may also involve supportive care. This type of care consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options for a Wellbutrin XL overdose may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
- Medicines to control an irregular heart rhythm or control seizures
- Closely monitoring the heart and lungs
- A breathing tube to help with breathing
- Other treatments based on complications that occur.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on Wellbutrin XL.
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