Combining Wellbutrin and Metformin for Weight Loss
It is not known from studies whether the combination of Metformin and Wellbutrin can benefit you in weight loss. However, as we will shortly discuss, antidepressants such as fluoxetine, have indeed been combined with Metformin for weight loss in scientific studies.
The combination of Metformin and Wellbutrin weight loss should only be considered under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication regimen.
What Is Metformin?
Metformin is a medication used as an antidiabetic drug. It is administered orally and is used as the first line of treatment for type 2 diabetes [1, 2].
The drug helps with reducing high blood sugar levels in the body as it has potent antihyperglycemic properties [3].
First, metformin suppresses hepatic glucose production, and gluconeogenesis in particular. Then it enhances the peripheral tissue insulin sensitivity [3, 4]. Insulin is a hormone active in regulating the absorption of sugar into cells [1]. This means it helps to decrease the amount of sugar produced by the liver and increase the body's response to insulin [1].
Metformin can also increase plasma concentrations of the glucose-lowering gut incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This then contributes to its glucose-lowering effect [5].
Apart from its beneficial effects in managing diabetes, metformin is associated with other benefits as well. For instance, it has been suggested to help with managing weight but has also shown renoprotective, neuroprotective and antineoplastic effects [2]. It has also been seen to be helpful to mitigate conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome [2].
Despite being considered as safe and effective, metformin can cause side effects Rarely it can cause a serious condition called lactic acidosis. Therefore it is not recommended to be taken by people with liver, kidney, or heart problems [1].
What Is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin, or bupropion, is a presription medication. Bupropion is the active ingredient in wellbutrin and it is what makes the drug effective [6].
Generally, Wellbutrin is prescribed for mental health conditions to treat disorders like major depressive disorder or seasonal affective disorder [6, 7, 8]. This drug belongs to a group of drugs known as norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake blockers.
The medication can be found in two forms, Wellbutrin sustained-release (SR) and Wellbutrin extended-release (XL). In both forms, the tablets are being swallowed hence wellbutrin is orally administered [6, 7, 8].
Sometimes, Welllbutrin can also be prescribed to help people quit smoking. For this, it is known under its brand name Zyban [9, 10].
Can You Take Metformin And Wellbutrin Together For Weight Loss?
There are no studies that looked into the specific combination of Metformin and Wellbutrin in relationship to weight loss.
However, as we previously mentioned, there are studies looking at the combination of antidepressants and Metformin. For example, a study found that the combination of Metformin and fluoxetine led to significant weight loss in obese women [12].
Additionally, we can consider the effects of that highlight the effect of both.
For instance, Metformin has been shown to be effective in reducing weight in many contexts. It was found to be more effective than a placebo in terms of weight loss among people on antipsychotic medications [11]. The reported average weight reduction was 3.12 kg.
In some patients, Wellbutrin has been associated with weight loss side effects. However, we should note that both Wellbutrin and Metformin are primarily used for different purposes, and any weight loss effects are secondary and can vary among individuals.
Before starting any new medication or combining medications, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current medications.