I know this is something I'll need to discuss with my doctor, but I also wanted to get some peoples opinions, and hear their experiences before I go to the doctor next week. I've been doing some reading on the differents meds used for ADD and Depression, and as of now Wellbutrin sounds right for me, especially since I would also like to quit smoking. I've also heard that there's few side effects with it. My concern is I've read that a lot of people have increased irritablity with Wellbutrin, and frankly I'm quite irritable enough. I have bad mood swings, which escalate severly when I'm PMSing. I'm afraid it may do more harm than good. Do doctors sometimes prescribe something like xanax or valium to use occasionally when extra stressed and irritable? Also, do doctors just prescribe whatever they feel will help for the ADD/Depression, or if you have a preference, will they take that into consideration? This is all very new to me, and to be honest, pretty scary too!

Hi. welcome...

Yes you can ask your doctor for what you want to try. Be sure to discuss irritability.

Others will have direct experience with the combination you are considering. It sounds like you have done your home work.

Best Wishes, David

Wellbutrin is an anti-depressant and as such should help with irritability. It also has some stimulant effects, which might increase it (it's worse for the first week or so). I've never been on it, but I have lots of friends who have - mostly to help quit smoking (everyone I know who used it did quit, by the way). It's worth a try.
Most doctors would give wellbutrin to you if you asked - esp. to stop smoking - but Xanax has abuse potential and a Dr might question you asking for it directly. I'd tell him that you are worried that the Wellbutrin will affect your sleep - which it might - and ask for something to help with that, and possible anxiety.
Good luck!
Greg

I've been on Wellbutrin for a couple of months now, and my wife tells me it is helping... I have trouble telling the difference sometimes... but she says I am more cheerful, and less grumpy overall. I have never had the Wellbutrin interfere with my sleep patterns but I never sleep enough anyways, so it would be hard to tell.

One thing I HAVE noticed is that if I forget two pills in a row, I get VERY VERY grumpy... my temper ready to be set off by something that totally doesn't merit an explosive response... I just want to be alone at these times so I don't hurt anyone...

I've been on Wellbutrin for several years now.....and the difference between being on it and not being on it is like night and day......(my boss commented the other day how I'm NEVER late for work.....which I attribute to the Wellbutrin)......

Yes I do get irritable on this med.....but I think the other benefits far outweigh this side effect.....it has helped both my ADD and depression....Yes some physicians will do an additional drug....it all depends on the doctor.....

I suggest you tell him exactly what you've told us.....Good luck....

Thanks for the input everyone! Unfortunately, I'm not going to be able to see a doctor for a while. I don't have any health insurance, and am having a very hard time getting on Medicaid or even an assistance program my local hospital has. I was so excited that I was finally going to go see a doctor, and now I'm crushed. This is not helping the depression at all! Hopefully I'll be able to get something worked out in the meantime. I been trying to start exercising again, hopefully that will help for now.( That is, if I can stick with it :)) Thanks again!