I took Wellbutrin™ (bupropion) and Effexor XR™ (venlafaxine) for a couple of years after my daughter was killed.

As a psychiatric pharmacist, I extensively researched the the combination. It is fairly common combination especially if the SNRI or SSRI doesn't fully alleviate the depression. There is a synergistic effect when using the two medications together.

I found that the combination worked wonders for me as I worked through my grief. Everyone is different, though, so I can't say that the combination will work well for you. I was taking a high dose of Effexor XR™ (450mg/day) and it made me very lethargic. The Wellbutrin™ gave me back my energy so that I could return to work.

Do bring up your concerns with your psychiatrist, as that is what they are there for. Ask him/her if he/she has had much success with the combination.

If you have any other questions regarding the combination, just ask.

I hope that this is of some help. - Cam