Bupropion Medication: What You Need to Know
Bupropion is an antidepressant medication used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. It is available as a prescription drug in two forms: immediate-release tablets and extended-release tablets. The immediate-release tablets work quickly, while the extended-release tablets are designed to release the drug slowly over time.
Bupropion is marketed under several brand names, including Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Aplenzin, Forfivo XL, and Zyban. It is also available as a generic drug, which is typically less expensive than the brand-name versions.
Bupropion Uses
Bupropion is primarily used to treat symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Additionally, it is prescribed to help people quit smoking. As an antidepressant, Bupropion works by increasing certain types of activity in the brain. This medication helps improve mood and feelings of well-being by restoring the balance of natural substances in the brain.
How to Take Bupropion
- Take Bupropion exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose.
- Avoid taking the medication in larger or smaller amounts than directed. Overconsumption of Bupropion can increase the risk of seizures.
- Swallow extended-release tablets whole. Do not crush, chew, or break them.
- Do not stop taking Bupropion suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can increase the risk of seizures.
- If you're using Bupropion to quit smoking, your doctor may also prescribe a nicotine replacement product (such as patches or gum). Start using the nicotine replacement product on the same day you stop smoking or using tobacco products.
- Be aware that some people using Bupropion (Wellbutrin or Zyban) have experienced severe high blood pressure, especially when using nicotine replacement products.
- Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms: When you stop smoking, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slower heart rate
- Urges to smoke
- Feelings of anxiety, restlessness, depression, anger, frustration, or irritation
- These symptoms can occur with or without medications like Zyban. Quitting smoking can also lead to new or worsening mental health issues, including depression.
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Get A Second OpinionBupropion Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Agitation
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Irregular heartbeat
- Rashes
Mental Health Effects:
- Worsening depression
- Anxiety
- Feeling agitated or restless
- Panic attacks
- Sleeping disorders
- Increased irritability
- Dangerous impulses
Eye Problems:
- Eye pain
- Swelling or redness near the eye
- Changes in vision
Seizures:
- Staring spells
- Jerking in arms and legs
- Loss of consciousness
If you experience any serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Avoid using Bupropion if you have any adverse reactions.
Precautions Before Using Bupropion
Before taking Bupropion, inform your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. Bupropion may contain inactive ingredients that could cause serious problems. Avoid taking Bupropion if you have:
- Seizure disorder
- Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia
Bupropion can cause seizures, especially if you have certain medical conditions. Consult your doctor before using Bupropion if you have:
- A history of head injury, seizures, or brain and spinal cord tumors
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Diabetes
- Kidney or liver disease
- Depression
Dosage Instructions for Bupropion
Depression
- Generic: Bupropion Tablet (75 mg, 100 mg)
- Brand:
- Wellbutrin XL (150 mg, 300 mg)
- Wellbutrin SR (100 mg, 150 mg)
- Aplenzin (174 mg, 348 mg, 522 mg)
- Forfivo XL (450 mg)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Generic: Bupropion Tablet (100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg)
- Brand:
- Aplenzin (174 mg, 348 mg, 522 mg)
- Wellbutrin XL (150 mg, 300 mg)
Smoking Cessation
- Generic: Bupropion (100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg)
- Brand: Zyban (150 mg)
What If You Missed A Dose Of Bupropion?
Missing one or two doses of Bupropion typically won’t have significant effects. However, consistency is important for the medication to work effectively. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.
Allergy Warnings
Be aware of potential allergic reactions to Bupropion, which can include:
- Rash
- Swelling of the lips
- Itching
- Hives
- Fever
- Swollen lymph glands
- Painful sores in the mouth
- Trouble breathing
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
Pregnancy
Bupropion is a Category C pregnancy drug, indicating that animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breastfeeding
Bupropion passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Consult your doctor before using Bupropion if you are breastfeeding.
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Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Before taking Bupropion consult your Doctor. In case if you face any problems or get anyside effects after taking Bupropion rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor advice whenever you take Bupropion.
Bupropion vs Sertraline
| Bupropion | Sertraline |
|---|---|
| Bupropion is an antidepressant medication which is used for treating the major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. Bupropion tablets come in the form of a prescription drug. The medication comes in the form of an immediate-release tablet or extended-release tablets. | Sertraline is an antidepressant drug which is called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. The medication affects the chemicals in the brain which can be unbalanced in people with depression and anxiety. |
| Bupropion is used for treating symptoms like depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The medication also helps people for preventing from stop smoking. Bupropion is called antidepressants which work in increasing certain types of activity in the brain. | Sertraline is used for treating depression, panic attacks, social anxiety disorder and traumatic stress disorder. The medication helps in improving the mood, sleep and energy level. |
Most common side effects of Bupropion are:
|
Most common side effects of Sertraline are:
|
