Wellbutrin and cannabis (marijuana, THC)
As cannabis becomes legal or decriminalised in more jurisdictions, the practical question of combining it with prescription medication comes up regularly. Wellbutrin (Bupropion) and cannabis share several pharmacological pathways, and the combination at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg is not automatically benign even where both are legal.
How cannabis affects Wellbutrin
THC and other cannabinoids are metabolised partly by hepatic CYP enzymes, including CYP3A4 — the same pathway used by many Anti-Depressants medications. Frequent cannabis use can shift the metabolism of Bupropion mildly. THC also has cardiovascular effects (increased heart rate, blood pressure changes) and central nervous system effects that can stack with Wellbutrin's side-effect profile.
Practical guidance
Occasional moderate cannabis use is unlikely to cause clinically meaningful problems for most adults on Wellbutrin at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg. Heavy daily use, edibles with high THC content, or cannabis combined with alcohol substantially raise the risk of dizziness, hypotension, impaired judgement and amplified side effects from Bupropion. According to the prescribing information, the full list of recreational substances should be disclosed to the prescriber.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use cannabis while taking Wellbutrin? ▾
For most adults at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg, occasional moderate cannabis is tolerated, but heavy daily use is not advised because of metabolic and additive cardiovascular effects with Bupropion. The safe practice is to mention it to the prescriber.
Does CBD interact with Wellbutrin? ▾
CBD inhibits several CYP enzymes including CYP3A4, which can raise plasma levels of medications that go through that pathway. For Wellbutrin specifically, this depends on whether Bupropion uses CYP3A4. Daily high-dose CBD products warrant a pharmacist check.
More on Wellbutrin
- With alcoholWellbutrin and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Wellbutrin be taken with food?
- Side effectsWellbutrin side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideWellbutrin dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Wellbutrin start working?
- DurationHow long does Wellbutrin last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.