Wellbutrin (Bupropion) Review

Wellbutrin, which is generically prescribed as bupropion, is used to treat the symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder. It is also used as a smoking cessation tool by reducing the cravings and withdrawal symptoms of cigarette smokers.

Wellbutrin is not appropriate for everyone. A thorough medical history should be assessed prior to prescribing this medication. Patients with a medical history which includes eating disorders, seizures, or have suddenly stopped the use of sedatives or alcohol. Wellbutrin is an antidepressant, and it is typically inappropriate for patients under the age of twelve. Patients who regularly drink and suddenly stop while taking this medication may have seizures even if they do not have a seizure disorder. Patients who have taken an MAO inhibitor must wait a minimum of 14 days before taking Wellbutrin.

Patients with a history of high blood pressure, a brain injury, brain tumor, spinal cord tumor, liver disease, kidney disease, bipolar disorder, diabetes, or use steroids may not be able to take Wellbutrin, or may require careful monitoring while taking this medication, depending on the condition and the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administration has rated Wellbutrin as a pregnancy risk category C. Wellbutrin may cause harm or birth defects to an unborn baby. Wellbutrin passes into the mother’s breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. The prescribing physician should avoid prescribing this medication to pregnant or nursing women, or to women who are likely to become pregnant.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Wellbutrin, some of which are severe. A patient experiencing a serious side effect or an allergic reaction should seek immediate emergency medical attention. An allergic reaction will present with symptoms such as facial swelling, including swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat. Other serious side effects that require emergency medical attention include fast heart beat, uneven heart rates, or seizures and convulsions.

Other less serious side effects typically do not require emergency medical attention but should be reported to the prescribing physician. Patients should be encouraged to report all side effects. Less serious side effects include symptoms such as insomnia, headaches, migraines, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, confusion, agitation, tremors, dizziness, changes in appetite or weight, mild itching, mild skin rash, sweating, or sexual dysfunction. Less serious side effects can often be reduced to a tolerable level by reducing the dosage of Wellbutrin.

There is a risk of negative drug interactions associated with Wellbutrin. A thorough medical history should be understood prior to prescribing this medication. Patients should be urged to inquire with the prescribing physician before taking any new medications, including over the counter medications and herbal remedies. Medications that are known to negatively interact with Wellbutrin include medications that cause drowsiness such as sedatives, pain relievers, muscle relaxants, anti anxiety medication, cough and cold medication, and additional antidepressants. Patients who have taken an MAOI must wait at least 14 days before taking Wellbutrin. Mixing an MAOI with Wellbutrin can cause serious drug interactions that may result in coma or death.

Wellbutrin should not be suddenly stopped. There should be a gradual weaning period before this medication is stopped. Some patients experience worsening depression and thoughts of suicide when taking Wellbutrin. Patients, especially under the age of 25, should be carefully monitored while taking this medication. If mood changes, irritability or aggression and thoughts of self harm and suicide arise, the patient should seek immediate emergency medical attention. Great care should be taken if prescribing this medication to anyone under the age of 18.