Wellbutrin (Buproprion) and Adult ADHD -A Non-Stimulant Option. Mechanism of action and side effects

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 21:58:53 +0000

Dr. Pagnani of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates discusses Wellbutrin (Buproprion) and its off-label use in the treatment of Adult ADHD. Wellbutrin (buproprion) is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, which is FDA approved for the treatment of depression. Unlike antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs, this medication does NOT increase availability of serotonin, and therefore, does NOT treat anxiety (in fact, it can make anxiety and irritability worse). It is also used for smoking cessation (with the Trade name Zyban). Other side effects include increased risk for seizure (making it a non-ideal option for individuals with eating disorders or alcohol use disorders [as it can be dangerous for these individuals]), increased intra-ocular pressure, dry mouth, constipation, tachycardia, sweating, insomnia, upset stomach, decreased appetite (and weight loss) and others. With that said, this may be a good option for some patients, particularly as it does not have the abuse potential, of stimulants like adderall, ritalin, vyvanse and concerta.

Dr. Pagnani is the founder and medical director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, an Instructor at The Johns Hopkins Hospital for the Department of Psychiatry, he supervises psychiatric residents at Jefferson Hospital, he serves on the Young Professional Board of Uplift, the Center for Grieving Children and he maintains a private practice of Psychiatry in Philadelphia where he sees patients for one-time psychiatric evaluations and second opinions. He is a licensed physician and surgeon in NJ, PA, NY, MD, DE, FL and CA and can provide consultations to individuals via HIPAA compliant Telehealth visits living in these locations.

Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of psychiatry consisting of about 25 psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners and psychotherapists with physical locations in Philadelphia and Paoli, PA and serving all of PA, NJ, NY and FL virtually via HIPAA compliant tele-psychiatry. Individuals seeking not only evaluations but long-term psychiatric care, can contact Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates directly.

These videos aim to increase awareness and discussion of mental health topics and to encourage struggling individuals to schedule an appointment directly with a mental health provider. Mental health needs to be normalized, and simply speaking about mental health topics openly, is an important first step.

Dr. Pagnani and Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates are NOT advocating for or against the use of any mentioned psychiatric medications for any specific individual. Additionally, any side effects mentioned are not a complete list of potential side effects or contraindications to taking any mentioned medications, and all risks and benefits of a medication should be discussed with an individual’s provider at an appointment, before starting, stopping or making changes to a medication regimen.

This video is INFORMATIVE ONLY - NOT MEDICAL ADVICE.

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