Bupropion hydrochloride (
Wellbutrin®) is a prescription medicine used to treat
depression (also known as major depression or clinical depression).
Bupropion is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Generic bupropion is made by several manufacturers.
Bupropion is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, or NDRI for short.
NDRIs, such as bupropion, affect specific chemicals within the brain known as norepinephrine and dopamine. Norepinephrine and dopamine are two of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another.
As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release norepinephrine (or dopamine). The norepinephrine (or dopamine) enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it. When enough norepinephrine or dopamine reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any norepinephrine or dopamine that remains in the gap between cells. This is called "reuptake."
Normally, this process works without any problems. But when the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine become unbalanced, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression and seasonal affective disorder. Bupropion helps to block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine so that more remains in the space between the brain's nerve cells. This gives the norepinephrine and dopamine a better chance of activating the receptors on the next nerve cell.
Currently, the only NDRI
antidepressants approved for use are medications containing bupropion. Wellbutrin and generic bupropion are the short-acting versions of bupropion. Bupropion also comes in longer-acting forms, including:
When and How to Take Bupropion
Some general considerations for when and how to take the medication include:
- Bupropion comes in a tablet form. It is taken by mouth, usually two to four times per day.
- Taking it at bedtime may cause insomnia. If you are having trouble sleeping, try taking your last dose a little earlier.
- You can take it with or without food. If it bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- The medication should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
- For bupropion to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects. However, not everyone who takes bupropion will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the most common side effects include:
(Click Bupropion Side Effects to learn about specific side effects of bupropion, including some of the more serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider. You can also read about possible side effects by going to:
Bupropion can potentially interact with a number of other medicines.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking bupropion if you have:
Also let your healthcare provider know if you:
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Alternatives to Bupropion
Depression, even in its most severe form, is highly treatable. As with many illnesses, getting treatment for depression early is more effective and reduces the chance of recurrence.
The most common forms of treatment for depression are medications (
antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In some cases of severe depression, healthcare providers may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Some people may also try complementary or alternative treatments for depression
(see Natural Remedies for Depression).
For most people, bupropion is quite effective at treating depression. It is also generally well-tolerated. However, it is possible that side effects will occur or that the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative to bupropion. Some examples of substitute depression medications include:
People who take too much bupropion may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Fainting
- A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- A fever
- Muscle tension, pain, and damage
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Breathing problems
- Coma
- Loss of life.
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Bupropion Storage Methods
It should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat. Bupropion tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep bupropion and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your bupropion as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Bupropion tablets are available in two strengths:
- Bupropion 75 mg tablets
- Bupropion 100 mg tablets.
Currently, both brand name bupropion and generic bupropion are licensed for sale.
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