If you’re considering stopping Wellbutrin XL 150 mg, you’re not alone. Whether it’s due to side effects, life changes, or conversations with your healthcare provider, understanding how to taper off Wellbutrin safely is crucial. Unlike some medications, stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey can lead to uncomfortable or even serious withdrawal symptoms. This guide walks you through why tapering matters, what to expect, and how to work with your doctor to wean off Wellbutrin XL 150 mg in a safe and supportive way.

Should You Stop Taking Wellbutrin Cold Turkey?

Stopping Wellbutrin suddenly—often referred to as quitting “cold turkey”—can lead to a cascade of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms don’t appear right away. Because Wellbutrin (also known by its generic name, bupropion) has a relatively long half-life, withdrawal symptoms can emerge a few days after the last dose. Anxiety, irritability, insomnia, mood swings, headaches, and brain zaps are some of the common side effects people report after stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey.

Many people wonder, “Can I just stop taking Wellbutrin?” or “Can I stop Wellbutrin cold turkey after two weeks?” Even short-term use can result in withdrawal symptoms if the dose is stopped abruptly. Whether you’re stopping Wellbutrin XL or bupropion SR, it’s best to avoid sudden discontinuation. Always consult with your doctor first.

Why It’s Important to Taper Off Wellbutrin (Especially XL 150 mg)

Tapering off Wellbutrin is about more than comfort—it’s about safety. Gradually reducing your dosage helps minimize or avoid withdrawal symptoms and gives your body time to adjust. The American Psychiatric Association recommends tapering down any antidepressant, including Wellbutrin XL, to reduce the risk of discontinuation syndrome.

Tapering is especially important with extended-release formulations like Wellbutrin XL 150 mg. Because the medication is released slowly throughout the day, its levels in your system remain stable. Cutting the dose suddenly can disrupt your brain chemistry and lead to unpleasant withdrawal effects.

Tapering also gives you a window to monitor symptoms, reassess your mental health, and communicate any side effects with your healthcare provider. Even if you’ve been on Wellbutrin for a short time, a taper schedule can help avoid complications.

Common Withdrawal Symptoms of Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin withdrawal doesn’t affect everyone the same way, but many report symptoms like:

• Irritability or mood swings
  
  
• Anxiety or restlessness
  
  
• Trouble sleeping
  
  
• Headaches
  
  
• Fatigue or low energy
  
  
• Flu-like symptoms
  
  
• Brain zaps (a sudden, electric shock-like feeling in the brain)
  
  

Some people ask, “Is Wellbutrin hard to get off of?” The truth is, it depends. If you’ve been on Wellbutrin XL 150 mg for months or years, your brain has adapted to it. Stopping bupropion suddenly can throw things off balance.

How to Taper Off Wellbutrin XL 150 mg: A Safe Schedule

There is no one-size-fits-all Wellbutrin taper schedule, but here is a commonly recommended approach for Wellbutrin XL 150 mg:

1. Switch to taking 150 mg every other day for 1–2 weeks.
   
   
2. If tolerated, reduce to every third day for 1–2 weeks.
   
   
3. Discontinue fully, monitoring for withdrawal symptoms.
   
   

Your doctor may adjust your plan based on how long you’ve been on the medication and whether you’re experiencing side effects. In some cases, switching from Wellbutrin XL to the shorter-acting SR version can allow for finer dose adjustments before stopping altogether.

If you experience withdrawal symptoms at any stage of the taper, such as dizziness, insomnia, or increased anxiety, your doctor may recommend restarting at a slightly higher dose and tapering more slowly.

What Happens If You Stop Taking Wellbutrin Suddenly?

When Wellbutrin is stopped suddenly, especially after consistent daily use, it can lead to a rebound of the very symptoms it was treating—such as depression, anxiety, or mood instability. Additionally, withdrawal symptoms can mimic new or worsening mental health issues. That’s why many clinicians advise tapering off Wellbutrin slowly rather than quitting abruptly.

Questions like “What happens if I stop taking Wellbutrin cold turkey?” or “Can you stop Wellbutrin abruptly?” are common. The answer is clear: don’t do it alone. A safe discontinuation plan will always include a gradual taper with guidance from your healthcare provider.

Do You Need to Wean Off Wellbutrin?

Yes. Even if you’ve been taking Wellbutrin for a short time or are on a moderate dose like 150 mg, it’s best to taper. This helps reduce the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms and allows your body to adjust.

Many ask, “Do I have to wean off Wellbutrin?” or “Is it safe to stop taking Wellbutrin cold turkey?” The short answer is: Weaning off is safer, more comfortable, and more effective at preventing withdrawal-related complications.

How Long Does Wellbutrin Stay in Your System?

Wellbutrin XL has a half-life of about 21 hours, but the full medication and its active metabolites can stay in your system for several days. This is why withdrawal symptoms often don’t show up until a few days after the last dose. Most people begin to feel a reduction in symptoms within a week or two of their last dose, although for some, the withdrawal process can last several weeks.

If you’re wondering how long it takes to get Wellbutrin out of your system, keep in mind that it varies depending on your dose, how long you’ve been taking it, and your metabolism.

Final Tips for Getting Off Wellbutrin Safely

If you’re ready to come off Wellbutrin, whether you’re dealing with side effects or just want to try something new, do it with support. A thoughtful tapering strategy designed with your doctor will always yield better outcomes than going it alone.

Many people have successfully weaned off Wellbutrin without major issues, but listening to your body is key. If withdrawal symptoms start, don’t be afraid to pause and consult your provider.

Coming off of Wellbutrin can be a manageable process when done safely. Stay patient, monitor your symptoms, and know that it’s okay to go slowly. Whether you’re stopping Wellbutrin XL 150 mg or transitioning to another treatment, having a plan can make all the difference.

Ready to Taper Off Wellbutrin Safely? Asana Recovery Can Help

If you’re struggling with stopping Wellbutrin or navigating the withdrawal symptoms of bupropion, you’re not alone. At Asana Recovery, we understand how complex and personal this journey can be. Our compassionate, medically supervised programs are designed to help you taper off Wellbutrin XL 150 mg safely—without going cold turkey or risking relapse. Whether you’re dealing with co-occurring conditions, mental health challenges, or concerns about long-term medication use, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Reach out today to start your recovery with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tapering Off Wellbutrin XL 150 mg

Can I stop taking Wellbutrin cold turkey?

Stopping Wellbutrin cold turkey is not recommended. Doing so can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms like irritability, headaches, insomnia, or anxiety. If you’re considering stopping Wellbutrin, especially after 1 or 2 weeks of use, talk to your doctor to establish a safe tapering schedule.

What happens if I just stop taking Wellbutrin suddenly?

Suddenly stopping Wellbutrin (bupropion) can lead to withdrawal symptoms including mood swings, brain zaps, body aches, and even depression relapse. For safety, your doctor may advise you to taper off Wellbutrin gradually—even from a 150 mg dose.

Do I need to taper off 150 mg of Wellbutrin XL?

Yes. Although 150 mg is considered a moderate dose, many patients still experience withdrawal effects if they stop abruptly. Most doctors recommend tapering off Wellbutrin XL 150 mg over a period of several weeks. Tapering helps your brain gradually adjust to the change in bupropion levels.

How do I taper off Wellbutrin XL 150 mg safely?

To taper off Wellbutrin XL 150 mg, your doctor may suggest gradually reducing your dose over 6–8 weeks, possibly taking the medication every other day for a time. A safe Wellbutrin taper schedule is often personalized based on how long you’ve been on the medication, your current dosage, and any side effects you’ve experienced.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of Wellbutrin?

Withdrawal symptoms of Wellbutrin can include:

• Anxiety
  
  
• Irritability
  
  
• Dizziness
  
  
• Brain zaps
  
  
• Trouble sleeping
  
  
• Nausea
  
  
• Mood swings
  
  

These symptoms can start a few days after stopping Wellbutrin and may last from a few days to a few weeks. The risk increases if you quit Wellbutrin cold turkey.

How long does Wellbutrin stay in your system?

Wellbutrin XL has a long half-life, meaning it can stay in your system for up to five days after your last dose. However, some patients report feeling withdrawal symptoms even as the medication is still leaving their system. The full clearance of bupropion and its effects can vary from person to person.

Can I take Wellbutrin every other day to wean off?

Yes, some doctors may recommend taking Wellbutrin every other day as a way to taper off 150 mg XL doses. However, this should only be done under medical supervision, as bupropion can have complex effects depending on your metabolism and health status.

Is Wellbutrin hard to get off of?

Some people find it easy to stop taking Wellbutrin, while others may struggle with withdrawal symptoms. Factors like how long you’ve been on the medication, your dose, and whether you’re stopping abruptly can influence how hard it is to get off Wellbutrin.

What happens if I miss a dose of Wellbutrin?

If you skip a single dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. However, repeatedly skipping doses can mimic the effects of tapering or stopping suddenly and may lead to symptoms like brain fog, mood changes, or insomnia.

Does everyone need to taper off Wellbutrin?

Not necessarily. Some individuals may stop Wellbutrin without symptoms, especially at lower doses. But because the risk of withdrawal symptoms from bupropion exists, tapering is usually the safest route. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the best plan for you.

Need help managing withdrawal symptoms from Wellbutrin or creating a personalized tapering plan? Contact Asana Recovery today for compassionate guidance and support during your journey.

Informational Sources

• American Psychiatric Association. (2020). Practice guideline for the treatment of patients with major depressive disorder (3rd ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing. https://psychiatryonline.org
• Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Bupropion (Oral Route) – Precautions. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bupropion-oral-route/precautions/drg-20062478
• National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2022). Bupropion (Wellbutrin). https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Bupropion-(Wellbutrin)
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). Wellbutrin XL (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets) labeling. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov
• Drugs.com. (2023, August 25). Can I stop taking Wellbutrin suddenly or should I taper off? https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/can-i-stop-taking-wellbutrin-suddenly-or-should-3563130/