Can I take Sedoxil and Wellbutrin together?

Why this happens

Both medicines affect the central nervous system. Sedoxil (mexazolam) is a benzodiazepine that slows down brain activity to reduce anxiety. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant. When used together, their sedative effects add up, leading to increased drowsiness and impaired physical or mental function.

You should speak to your doctor before taking these together. If your doctor has prescribed both, be very careful when driving or using machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol, as this will make the sleepiness much worse. Seek medical help immediately if you experience extreme drowsiness or difficulty breathing.

Mental health conditions

Wellbutrin can cause suicidal thoughts or self-harm, especially in young adults and when first starting treatment. Monitor your mood closely and seek immediate medical help if you experience new or worsening suicidal feelings.

Seizure disorders

Wellbutrin carries a significant risk of causing seizures. You must not take it if you have epilepsy, a history of seizures, or an eating disorder (bulimia or anorexia), as these conditions greatly increase the risk.

Drowsiness and coordination

Sedoxil causes significant drowsiness and affects your coordination. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you. The effect is much stronger if you drink alcohol.

Severe Respiratory Insufficiency or Sleep Apnoea

Sedoxil is a benzodiazepine that can suppress breathing. It must be avoided if you have severe lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or sleep apnoea, as it may lead to dangerous respiratory failure.

Dependence and withdrawal

Sedoxil can be addictive if used for more than a few weeks. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can cause serious withdrawal symptoms like tremors or seizures.

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking these medicines. Combining alcohol with Wellbutrin can increase the risk of seizures and may lower your alcohol tolerance. Combining alcohol with Sedoxil (a benzodiazepine) can cause dangerous levels of drowsiness, breathing difficulties, and impaired coordination.

Grapefruit juice

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while taking Sedoxil. Grapefruit contains compounds that slow down the breakdown of this medicine in your body, which can lead to dangerously high levels of the drug in your bloodstream and increase the risk of side effects.

Caffeine (Coffee, tea, energy drinks)

Limit your intake of caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant that can counteract the calming and anti-anxiety effects of Sedoxil, making the medicine less effective.

Wellbutrin is a stimulant-like antidepressant. Consuming high amounts of caffeine can increase the risk of side effects such as anxiety, tremors, palpitations, and insomnia.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.