Bupropion
What is Wellbutrin XL?
Wellbutrin XL (Bupropion) is an antidepressant approved by the FDA for treating major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. It functions by restoring the balance of natural brain substances such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Available in both short-acting tablets, which are taken two or three times daily, and long-acting versions for once-daily intake, Bupropion generally causes fewer sexual side effects than other antidepressants. However, it is not recommended for individuals with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or those who regularly consume alcohol. So, if you need to buy Wellbutrin XL to treat depression, you need to get a prescription from your doctor.
Product Overview
Wellbutrin XL, a brand name for bupropion, is an FDA-approved antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. It works by enhancing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, natural substances in the brain that help regulate mood. Wellbutrin XL is available in extended-release tablets, taken once daily, making it convenient compared to the short-acting form that requires multiple doses throughout the day. This medication is known for having fewer sexual side effects compared to other antidepressants. However, it’s not suitable for everyone, particularly those with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or heavy alcohol use.
Bupropion can also be used off-label for conditions like bipolar disorder, ADHD, and to aid in quitting smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal effects. Despite its benefits, it can cause side effects such as sweating, confusion, anxiety, and more severe reactions like increased risk of seizures. The drug must be taken strictly as prescribed, starting at a lower dose and possibly increasing based on the patient’s response and doctor’s advice.
To avoid serious interactions, patients should be cautious and not combine Wellbutrin with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or other contraindicated medications. Regular medical follow-ups are necessary to monitor the effectiveness and any adverse effects. If used responsibly under the guidance of a healthcare provider, Wellbutrin XL can be a safe and effective treatment for managing depression and other medical conditions.
Uses of Wellbutrin XL
- Use to treat depression
- Use to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Benefits of Wellbutrin XL
- Wellbutrin XL helps improve mood and alleviate symptoms associated with depression.
- This medication aids in quitting smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal effects.
- Bupropion (generic name) may also be used for bipolar disorder, ADHD, and addressing sexual dysfunction caused by other antidepressants.
Side Effects of Wellbutrin XL
Common side effects of Wellbutrin XL may include:
- Sweating
- Rash
- Dry mouth
- Ringing in the ears
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Sore throat
- Fast heartbeat
- Stomach pain
- Trouble sleeping
- Tremor
- Headache
- Nausea
- Urinary frequency
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle pain
- Restlessness (agitation)
[Note: This list is not exhaustive, if you notice any other symptoms that are not mentioned above, consult your doctor immediately.]
Wellbutrin XL Dosage
Forms & Strengths
Wellbutrin XL is available as oral extended-release tablets in two strengths:
- Wellbutrin 150 mg
- Wellbutrin 300 mg
Recommended Dosages
For Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
It is recommended to begin with a daily dose of 150 mg each morning. After four days, the dosage may be increased to 300 mg each morning.
For Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
The starting dose is 150 mg once daily. After seven days, it can be increased to 300 mg daily, taken in the morning.
How to Take Wellbutrin XL?
- The tablet should be taken whole without splitting, crushing, or chewing it.
- Take it every morning as directed.
- It may be taken with or without food.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Wellbutrin XL, do not take an additional dose to make up for it. Instead, continue with your next scheduled dose. Taking more than your prescribed dose can result in adverse side effects. To help remember your medication, consider using a reminder method such as setting an alarm or using a reminder app on your smartphone.
[Note: Do not take two doses of Wellbutrin XL at the same time to compensate for a missed dose. This can increase your risk of experiencing side effects.]
Overdose
Taking more than the recommended dose of Wellbutrin XL can lead to serious health risks. Symptoms of an overdose include loss of consciousness, irregular heartbeats, seizures, heightened reflex responses, or hallucinations—seeing or hearing things that aren’t there. It is crucial to get medical help right away if you experience any of these symptoms. In extreme cases, an overdose of Wellbutrin can be fatal. If you believe you have overdosed, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
[Note: If you notice you have taken too much medication, call your local emergency number immediately.]
How Does Wellbutrin XL Work?
Bupropion, the generic form of Wellbutrin XL, belongs to a class of medications known as atypical antidepressants. The exact mechanism by which this medication operates is not entirely understood. However, it is believed to function by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two critical neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters play significant roles in regulating mood and behavior. By enhancing their levels, bupropion can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood. This effect makes it a valuable treatment option for managing depressive disorders.
Important Safety Precautions
- Wellbutrin can increase seizure risk, especially at higher doses.
- Watch for signs of extreme mood elevation, including increased energy and impulsive behavior.
- Do not mix Wellbutrin with monoamine oxidase inhibitors to prevent dangerous reactions.
- Be active for severe allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Avoid Wellbutrin if you have seizure disorders, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, liver disease, or angle-closure glaucoma.
- Regularly visit your doctor to monitor medication effectiveness and side effects.
- Avoid combining Wellbutrin with other brain-affecting drugs.
- Monitor blood pressure as Wellbutrin can elevate it.
- Do not stop Wellbutrin suddenly; consult your doctor for a tapering plan to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Storage
- Store at room temperature, 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
- Keep this medication away from freezing temperatures.
Wellbutrin XL Interactions
- Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Zoloft (sertraline)
- Prozac (fluoxetine)
- Cymbalta (duloxetine)
- Paxil (paroxetine)
- Thioridazine
- Risperdal (risperidone)
- Haldol (haloperidol)
- Flecainide
- Propafenone
- Lanoxin (digoxin)
- Lopressor, Toprol Xl (metoprolol)
- Inderal La, Innopran Xl, Others (propranolol)
- Bystolic (nebivolol)
- Medrol (methylprednisolone)
- Rayos (prednisone)
- Orapred ODT, Prelone (prednisolone)
- Gocovri (amantadine)
- Levodopa-Containing Drugs
- Phenobarbital
- Dilantin, Phenytek (phenytoin)
- Epitol, Tegretol, Others (carbamazepine)
- Tamoxifen (Soltamox)
- Zyvox (linezolid)
- Provayblue (methylene blue)
- Emsam (selegiline)
- Marplan (isocarboxazid)
- Nardil (phenelzine)
- Sustiva (efavirenz)
- Kaletra (lopinavir)
- Norvir (ritonavir)
[Note: This list of interactions isn’t complete. Talk to your doctor if you notice any interaction with food, over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions, or supplements.]
Wellbutrin XL Alternatives
- Prozac (fluoxetine)
- Viibryd (vilazodone)
- Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Trazodone
- Trintellix (vortioxetine)
- Eldepryl (selegiline)
- Nardil (phenelzine)
- Abilify (aripiprazole)
- Remeron (mirtazapine)
- Wellbutrin SR
- Amitriptyline HCl
- Celexa (citalopram)
- Norpramin (desipramine)
- Serzone (nefazodone)
- Pamelor (nortriptyline)
- Cymbalta (duloxetine) SNRI
- Parnate (tranylcypromine)
- Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)
- Surmontil (trimipramine)
- Tofranil (imipramine)
- Anafranil (clomipramine)
- Protriptyline HCl
- Zoloft (sertraline)
- Paxil (paroxetine)
[Note: Your healthcare provider will choose which Wellbutrin XL alternative is best for you. Taking or consuming them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wellbutrin XL 150 mg a lot?
Bupropion HCl extended-release (Wellbutrin XL): The typical starting dose is 150 mg by mouth once daily in the morning. After 4 days, your provider might raise your dose to 300 mg once daily.
Is Wellbutrin XL a good antidepressant?
Wellbutrin stands out as an atypical antidepressant due to its unique mechanism of action. Unlike many other antidepressants that primarily work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, Wellbutrin primarily targets dopamine and norepinephrine. By boosting these neurotransmitters, it boosts positive alterations in both mood and cognitive processes.
Is Wellbutrin ok for anxiety?
Wellbutrin has gained FDA approval primarily for addressing depression, including major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). However, beyond its primary indications, it’s occasionally prescribed off-label for conditions like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive episodes occurring within bipolar disorder, and symptoms of anxiety.
Does Wellbutrin work immediately?
Wellbutrin doesn’t start working right away. It generally takes some time, usually a few weeks, before you start to feel the positive effects of Wellbutrin. So, while it will not show immediate results, it can definitely make a difference once it starts to take effect.
Is bupropion XL safe?
Bupropion XL is generally considered safe for use when prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, like all medications, it can have side effects and is not suitable for everyone. One of the potential side effects of bupropion XL is an increase in certain behaviors, such as agitation and irritability. In some cases, individuals may exhibit other abnormal behaviors while taking this medication. Additionally, there is a risk that some people may experience worsening depression or develop suicidal thoughts and tendencies.
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