Description
Generic Name: bupropion hydrochloride
Drug Class: aminoketone antidepressant, dopamine reuptake inhibitor
Wellbutrin SR Indications
Wellbutrin SR is an oral prescription drug used to treat patients who are clinically diagnosed with major depressive disorder or MDD. This medication helps improve feelings of well-being, energy level, mood, appetite, and sleep.
Wellbutrin SR Dosage Forms
This is available in Wellbutrin SR 150 mg, and 100 mg sustained-release tablets.
Wellbutrin SR Mechanism of Action
The precise action of this antidepressant is not clear. However, it is thought to restore the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. It primarily focuses on the inhibition of neuronal uptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
How to Take Wellbutrin SR
Before taking Wellbutrin SR, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. Before taking a medication, make sure you understand its purpose and directions. For further medical advice or additional details, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Wellbutrin SR tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth and is usually prescribed twice a day. This antidepressant must be taken with a meal or snack. The first dose should be administered as soon as you get up in the morning, and the next dose, after 8 hours. Taking this late in the day may cause insomnia. Do not crush, split, or chew this drug because doing so can increase adverse effects.
Create a dosing schedule to avoid missing your dose. Do not increase or decrease your Wellbutrin SR dosing, and do not take this oral drug more frequently than advised. Your physician may start giving a low dose and gradually increase your dose to prevent side effects. Additionally, you must avoid discontinuing this medication abruptly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Wellbutrin SR Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Headache
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Sore throat
-Dry mouth
-Decreased appetite
-Weight loss
-Trouble sleeping
-Increased sweating
-Tremors
-Ringing in the ears
Severe Side Effects:
-High blood pressure
-Irregular heartbeat
-Unusual weight loss or weight gain
-Seizure
-Eye pain
-Vision changes
-Mental and mood changes
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Wellbutrin SR.
In case of severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and contact your doctor.
Warnings and Precautions when using Wellbutrin SR
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to bupropion or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Be aware of any serious allergy symptoms, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives, and rashes. It is important to discontinue use of this medication if this occurs and to seek emergency medical attention right away.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of alcohol or drug abuse, head injury, brain tumor, eating disorders, diabetes, heart disease, glaucoma, liver disease, and kidney disease. Due to the possibility of drug interactions, you should mention all of your prescription and non-prescription medications, supplements, and herbal products.
Dizziness and vision changes are among the side effects of this oral antidepressant. When performing tasks that require alertness and clear vision, exercise safety precautions. Further, this medication can interact with alcohol and worsen your symptoms or adverse effects. Restrict your alcohol consumption while on this treatment.
Patients taking this oral drug for major depressive disorder should be monitored for risk of suicidal thoughts. Call your local suicide hotline once you observe sudden changes in behavior, altered sleeping patterns, social withdrawal, giving away important belongings, and lack of interest in pleasurable activities.
Pregnant moms must avoid Wellbutrin SR. The antidepressant can cause harm to unborn babies. For breastfeeding moms, the active ingredient of this drug can pass into breastmilk and may cause undesirable effects on nursing infants. Discuss all the possible risks with your doctor.
How much does Wellbutrin SR cost in Canada?
You may see the list of prices for both brand and generic of this medication at the top of this page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Wellbutrin SR used for?
Wellbutrin SR (generic name: bupropion hydrochloride) is being used to treat depression. It manages MDD symptoms by improving mood and feelings of well-being.
What is the difference between Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL?
These medications contain the same active ingredients. The difference is mainly in the formulation. The SR variant is the sustained-release version, while the XL variant is the extended-release version.
Can I cut Wellbutrin SR in half?
It is not recommended to cut this film-coated tablet in half. Dividing this drug can cause it to release all the active ingredients at once, which can increase the side effects.
Does Wellbutrin SR cause weight loss?
Yes, this antidepressant can cause weight loss among patients taking it. This is more apparent for obese people who are taking this drug.
Does Wellbutrin SR make you tired?
This oral prescription may cause drowsiness even during the day. This is why you must observe caution when doing activities that require alertness.
Do I need a prescription for Wellbutrin SR?
This is a prescription drug. To dispense this medication, a valid prescription is required.