Modafinil And Wellbutrin - Things You Should Know

Curious about the outcomes of combining Modafinil and Wellbutrin? This blog is a must-read. 

It is a comprehensive guide that introduces you to the differences between Modafinil and Wellbutrin, the positive and negative impacts of mixing these two medicines, and the safety of their combination. 

What Is Modafinil?

Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting drug that is used to increase wakefulness in people with sleep ailments like obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and shift work sleep disorder.

It is also a powerful nootropic agent, which means it provides cognition-enhancing benefits and is also used off-label for - bipolar and unipolar depressive episodes, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, cocaine dependence, multiple sclerosis, and cancer-related fatigue [1]. 

What Is Wellbutrin?

Bupropion, available under the brand name Wellbutrin, among others, is an antidepressant that is used to treat major depressive disorder and to support smoking cessation. It was approved by the FDA in 1985. Some of its off-label uses include attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, obesity, depression associated with bipolar disorder, etc [2]. 

Difference Between Modafinil And Wellbutrin

Below are some of the notable differences between Wellbutrin and Modafinil tablets. 

 

 

Note - This table does not provide all the differences between Wellbutrin and Modafinil. 

Modafinil And Wellbutrin Interaction:

Wellbutrin, as mentioned already, is a commonly used antidepressant. Because Modafinil is effective at reducing fatigue in people with depression, it is sometimes prescribed off-label to people who are taking bupropion already. 

Various studies have investigated the potential of Modafinil in combination with antidepressants, especially in individuals who don't seem to fully respond to antidepressants. 

In one study, it was concluded that Modafinil is an effective augmentation strategy for acute depressive episodes, including fatigue in both bipolar and unipolar disorders, by Alexander J Goss et al., published in 2013 [3].

Another case report of a 30-year-old female taking Wellbutrin for depression detailed that she had a good response to the addition of Modafinil. Before starting Modafinil, she was dealing with fatigue during the day that was affecting her quality of life. After taking Modafinil 200 mg per day for 2 weeks, she reported that her energy levels had significant improvement. Additionally, her symptoms of depression had decreased in severity to the point that she was considered to be in remission.

After 6 months of starting Modafinil, she remained in remission. No adverse events were reported in the case report [4]. 

Possible Adverse Events While Combining These Drugs

Combining Wellbutrin with Modafinil can worsen some conditions, such as hypertension, liver problems, cardiac disease, and seizure disorders.

Some of the possible negative effects include the following:

• Vision changes

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Trouble sleeping

• Confusion

• Trembling or shaking

• Hyperventilation. 

Can You Take Wellbutrin And Modafinil Together?

Yes, you can take Wellbutrin and Modafinil together. This combination is highly safe and effective. Before coadministering, seek assistance from your healthcare provider. Your health is your wealth. Therefore, we recommend getting a doctor to assess your health before taking these medicines [5]. 

Wellbutrin And Modafinil Combination - Conclusion 

Drug combinations should be administered only with the proper consultation with a doctor. While Modafinil and Wellbutrin are a well-tolerated and highly effective combination for combating depression and other related health conditions, it is essential to follow all the necessary precautions during coadministration.