Effexor and Wellbutrin?

[Bob_S]

Hi

I have been taking 300mg of WellbutrinXL for a while now.  Recently, my doctor wanted to add 150mg of Effexor XR.  I found out later that both these drugs work on norepinephrine and got cold feet.  I have read on this site and some others that this combo is used, but it still scares me.  Does anyone know if this combination is actually safe?  

Thanks,

Rob

[mjbrown]

Wellbutrin works on serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine receptors whereas Effexor inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. Both of these medications have a stimulating effect, so they typically cause more problems for people who also suffer from anxiety. Wellbutrin can cause seizures in some people (very small risk at your dose - less than 0.5%), but I would speak to your doctor if adding the Effexor might increase this risk. 300mg of Wellbutrin and 150mg of Effexor are standard doses for depression, but if you might not need these full doses at the same time. Maybe you can speak to your doctor about adding 75mg of Effexor - which is often given as a starter dose - and see how things work from there. Are you seeing a psychiatrist for these medications or a general physician?