Does Wellbutrin Cause Sweating?
Yes, sweating is a reported side effect of Wellbutrin (bupropion), occurring in 6-22% of users depending on the formulation and dose. Clinical trials show hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) in up to 22% of patients on the extended-release version (Wellbutrin XL), compared to 10% on placebo.[1][2] It often starts within the first few weeks and can affect the face, underarms, or whole body.
Why Does Wellbutrin Cause Sweating?
Bupropion blocks norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake, which can overstimulate the sympathetic nervous system—the body's fight-or-flight response that triggers sweat glands. Unlike SSRIs, it spares serotonin pathways, but the noradrenergic boost still leads to this effect in some people.[3]
How Common Is It Compared to Other Antidepressants?
Sweating hits about 10-20% on Wellbutrin, similar to SNRIs like Effexor (venlafaxine) but higher than SSRIs like Prozac (fluoxetine) at 5-15%. Tricyclics like amitriptyline cause it in 20-30%.[2][4] Patients switching from SSRIs sometimes notice less sexual side effects on Wellbutrin but trade off with more sweating.
How Long Does Sweating Last and Can It Go Away?
It typically peaks early in treatment and may lessen after 4-6 weeks as the body adjusts, but it persists for 20-30% of users long-term. Stopping the drug usually resolves it within days to weeks.[1][5]
What Do Patients Say About Managing It?
User reports on forums like Reddit and Drugs.com describe night sweats or hot flashes disrupting sleep. Tips include low-dose anticholinergics like glycopyrrolate (off-label), breathable clothing, or dose tweaks—antiperspirants alone often fail for widespread sweating. Doctors may lower the dose or add meds if it's intolerable.[6]
When Should You Talk to a Doctor?
See a doctor if sweating causes dehydration, skin issues, or interferes with daily life. It can signal dosage issues or rare conditions like serotonin syndrome if combined with other drugs. Not everyone experiences it; risk rises with higher doses (300-450mg/day).[2][3]
[1]: FDA Label for Wellbutrin XL
[2]: UpToDate: Bupropion Adverse Effects
[3]: PubMed: Antidepressants and Sweating
[4]: Drugs.com: Wellbutrin Side Effects
[5]: Mayo Clinic: Bupropion
[6]: Patient forums aggregated via WebMD and Reddit (anecdotal).