Wellbutrin is an antidepressant which is used for the treatment of major depression as well as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. This drug works by acting directly on the brain and some nerve cells. This drug is also used for the treatment of bipolar depression, chronic fatigue syndrome and attention deficit disorder. It can also be used to treat cocaine and nicotine addiction. This drug has the ability to restrain reuptake of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin which leads to an increase of these chemicals in the brain which influences our moods. With an increase in their levels in our brain, symptoms of depression are lessened.

Uses of Wellbutrin

 

Wellbutrin is prescribed for the treatment of depression and symptoms related to depression.

 

Wellbutrin Directions

 

Wellbutrin SR is taken orally with or without food consumption. This is taken one to three times a day and the tablet must be swallowed whole. Stopping the medication must be upon the advice of your doctor. It is done by gradually decreasing the dose. The effects of this drug will manifest after a few weeks of regularly taking the medicine.

 

Wellbutrin Precautions

 

For precautionary measures, Wellbutrin SR must not be taken without proper supervision of your doctor especially if you have cases of seizures or head injury or brain tumor. Likewise, you also need to inform your doctor if you have history of heart, liver, kidney diseases, if you are suffering from an eating disorder, have diabetes, alcohol dependence as well as any other allergies. These drugs can cause dizziness which can affect coordination; there might be some activities that you should avoid doing when you are under this medication unless you have already adjusted to this medication’s side effects. Furthermore, alcohol intake must be limited or avoided to reduce the risk of seizures. For pregnant women, doctor’s advice must be sought first before taking this drug to avoid harming the health of your unborn baby. Breastfeeding is also not recommended because it can give potential harm to the baby.

 

Wellbutrin Side Effects

 

The known side effects of this drug are tolerable and may include drying of the mouth, headache, excessive or increased sweating, nausea, constipation, anxiety, fatigue and blurring of vision. More serious side effects include unusual change in weight, palpitations, agitation and trouble sleeping. Rare cases of tremor, dizziness, fainting, mood swings, slowed movements, difficulty when urinating, decreased sexual desire and drowsiness as well as cases of seizures, fever, muscle pains, yellowing of the eyes or skin must also be reported to your doctor when any of these mentioned ever occur. Likewise, you must also notify your doctor immediately when you have an allergic reaction to the drug which may cause rashes, itching, swelling, and difficulty in breathing or severe dizziness.

 

Wellbutrin Drug Interactions

 

It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking before starting Wellbutrin. Some medications may react adversely when combined with Wellbutrin. You should not use Wellbutrin while taking MAO inhibitors, products containing nicotine, or drugs with increased seizure risks. Excess caffeine can also increase your chance of seizures while taking Wellbutrin. Check all drug labels for caffeine when taking Wellbutrin. Some smoking cessation aids contain Wellbutrin, or bupropion. Do not take this product in combination with Wellbutrin for depression. Talk to your doctor before stopping and starting any new medication while using Wellbutrin.

 

 

 

Wellbutrin Overdose

 

If you suspect that you might have overdosed on Wellbutrin, immediately seek medical attention. Symptoms include hallucinations, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

 

Missed Dose of Wellbutrin

 

When you missed and scheduled dose, you must take it as soon as you remember but if the schedule is very near the next dose already, just skip the dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not take double dose the next time for it might just make matters worse.