Wellbutrin (Bupropion)

Description

Indications

Bupropion is classified as an antidepressant medication and is utilized for the treatment of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), as well as to assist individuals in quitting smoking.

This medication is thought to function by boosting specific types of brain activity and restoring the equilibrium of natural neurotransmitters in the brain, resulting in improved mood and a greater sense of well-being.

Uses and Dosage

Take this medication orally with or without food, typically three times daily. In case of stomach upset, you may consume it with a meal.

To minimize the likelihood of having a seizure, ensure that you take your doses at least six hours apart or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not crush, cut or chew the tablet before ingesting it, as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do not exceed or decrease your medication dosage, or take it more frequently than recommended. Taking an excessive amount of bupropion may heighten the risk of seizures. The appropriate dosage will be based on your medical condition and your response to treatment. Your dose may be slowly increased to limit side effects such as insomnia and to reduce the likelihood of seizures.

To prevent difficulty sleeping, do not take this medication too close to bedtime.

To obtain the maximum benefits from this medication, use it regularly. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not cease taking this medication without first consulting with your doctor, as some conditions may worsen when the drug is stopped abruptly.

It may take approximately four or more weeks before you notice the complete benefits of this medication. Continue taking it as instructed by your doctor, even if you feel better. Speak with your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• constipation
• decrease in appetite
• dizziness
• increased sweating
• stomach pain
• trembling
• unusual weight loss
• blurred vision
• change in sense of taste
• drowsiness
• frequent need to urinate
• sore throat

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• anxiety
• dry mouth
• hyperventilation
• irregular heartbeats
• irritability
• restlessness
• shaking
• trouble sleeping
• buzzing or ringing in the ears
• headache (severe)
• skin rash, hives, or itching

Caution

Prior to taking bupropion, disclose any allergies to your physician or pharmacist, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other issues.

Before using this medication, inform your physician or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly if you have a history of seizures or conditions that increase the risk of seizures, alcohol/drug dependence, diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, liver problems, personal or family history of psychiatric disorder, personal or family history of suicide thoughts/attempts, or personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type).

Do not use this medication if you are abruptly discontinuing regular use of sedatives (including benzodiazepines like lorazepam), drugs used to treat seizures, or alcohol, as doing so may heighten the risk of seizures.

This drug may induce dizziness or affect coordination. Alcohol or marijuana may exacerbate these symptoms. Do not operate machinery, drive, or perform any activity that requires vigilance until you can do it safely.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness and memory loss. Dizziness can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, use this medication only if it is deemed necessary by your physician. As untreated mental/mood disorders (such as depression, seasonal affective disorder, bipolar disorder) can be a serious condition, refrain from stopping this medication unless instructed by your physician. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, promptly discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.

This drug passes into breast milk and may have unwanted effects on nursing infants. Consult your physician before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Wellbutrin is available in the following forms and strengths:

• bupropion tablet:
  • 75mg
  • 100mg

FAQ

How soon should I feel the effects of Wellbutrin?

Sleep, energy, or appetite may show some improvement within the first 1-2 weeks. Improvement in these physical symptoms can be an important early signal that the medication is working. Depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may need up to 6-8 weeks to fully improve.

Does Wellbutrin help with motivation?

With the increase of dopamine that Wellbutrin provides, some patients may experience a boost of energy and motivation.

Resources

1. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Bupropion-(Wellbutrin)#:~:text=Sleep%2C%20energy%2C%20or%20appetite%20may,8%20weeks%20to%20fully%20improve
2. https://khealth.com/learn/antidepressants/wellbutrin-vs-adderall/#:~:text=With%20the%20increase%20of%20dopamine,and%20motivation%20while%20taking%20Wellbutrin
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bupropion-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20062478
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-13509/wellbutrin-oral/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695033.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/wellbutrin.html