[Lana56]

I just started Wellbutrin XL. What is the difference between WellbutrinXL and wellbutrin.I have high blood pressure and it has been high lately.I am on medication for it,but it has been running high(maybe stress).Anyone know if the Wellbutrin XL is dangerous if my blood pressure is high.What experiences has people had??

[Genevieve]

Depending on which medication you're taking for your blood pressure, it may need to be adjusted with the addition of Wellbutrin.

As for the difference between Wellbutrin and Wellbutrin XL, it's the coating. XL is an extended release version, so it can be taken less often, in higher doses. That's a Good Thing, in my book. There's also the SR, which is even more extended. (I take XL.)

If you're taking a beta blocker, your dose will have to be adjusted, because Wellbutrin can block the action of these drugs.

Hope that helps.

[Lana56]

Genevieve,
Thankyou for the info.I am having some trouble-if it is the wellbutrin XL?? I have had a constant headache and now so sick to my stomach.I guess I will wait it out a bit and then call the doctor. Thankyou

Lana56,

Talk with your doctor about which Wellbutrin you are on and the amount.

There are three versions of Wellbutrin currently:<ul type="square"> [*]Bupropion (generic Wellbutrin) which is released quickly in the body therefore usually requires taking two to three times daily. Usually with the warning of spacing the doses out a certain number of hours. [*]Wellbutrin SR (may have recently gone generic as well......dunno as I'm no longer taking this version) which stands for sustained release. This version allowed users to take fewer doses a day as it released more slowly throughout the day. Usually twice daily dosing without the need for eight hour separations between doses. [*]Wellbutrin XL. Extended release. Newest version and still under patent from GlaxoSmithKleinBeechamglobalmegapharmcompany is generally a once a day pill. It is available in 150 mg and 300 mg sizes. The active ingredients are contained in the coatings of the tablet and made to relase throughout the day in intervals.[/list]Wellbutrin has always upset my stomach whenever changing a dosage or version. I've found taking it slowly going on the medication usually helped lessen the SEs like headache, jitteriness, or feeling sick to one's stomach.

Perhaps you could talk with your doctor about trying a different version available in a smaller amount and working up to whatever dose in smaller incriments? I used to take a combo of the generic quick releasing bupropion along with the Wellbutrin SR as that is what allowed my body to tolerate the med effecively enough for positive results.

Get creative with your doc. There isn't any reason to feel cruddy on a med if there is a way to go on it slowly and decrease the initial SEs.

Take care and good luck.