Description

Wellbutrin SR Wellbutrin SR

Wellbutrin SR is a prescription medicine that contains bupropion hydrochloride in an extended-release form as its active ingredient. It belongs to a group of drugs known as aminoketone antidepressants. Bupropion SR is mainly prescribed by physicians for major depressive disorder (MDD). It works differently from many widely used antidepressants by acting on some chemical signals in the brain.

### What Is Wellbutrin SR Used For?

Wellbutrin SR is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. Depression can lead to a persistent low mood, sleep problems, low energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite and loss of interest in everyday activities. If a healthcare professional determines that bupropion is appropriate, treatment may help reduce depressive symptoms. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release SR tablets are indicated for the treatment of MDD [present prescribing information].

Bupropion is also used in other formulations and brand products for other indications, such as smoking cessation. However, the exact indication varies from product to product and formulation to formulation; therefore, patients should only use the medicine for the use prescribed by their healthcare professional.

Wellbutrin SR: How Does It Work?

Bupropion is not a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), unlike many antidepressants. Rather, it is an antidepressant of the aminoketone class. It works by affecting the neurotransmitters in the brain, which can affect mood and other symptoms of depression.

Wellbutrin SR is a sustained release formulation, and the tablet is formulated to release the medicine over time. It should be taken whole. Do not crush, chew, or split a sustained-release tablet unless instructed to do so by your prescriber.

Wellbutrin SR Dosage Amount

The right dose will depend on the individual patient, their medical history, their response to treatment and other medicines they are taking. The latest prescribing information for SR bupropion generally recommends beginning with 150 mg daily and titrating up gradually as appropriate. Some formulations may be given as 150 mg twice a day, at least eight hours apart.

However, patients themselves should not change the dose. More than prescribed can increase the risk of seizures. Because of this, pay close attention to the prescription label and your healthcare professional’s instructions.

Side effects Common

Wellbutrin SR may cause side effects, as may other prescription medicines. The most common side effects of bupropion are dry mouth, nausea, headache, dizziness, anxiety or agitation, trouble sleeping, sweating, constipation and loss of appetite.

Some side effects may go away as your body adapts to the medicine . If symptoms are severe, persistent or bothersome, however, let your health care professional know.

Important Safety Information

Bupropion carries a strong warning about suicidal thoughts and actions in children, teens and young adults who take antidepressants. Patients and carers should look for new or worsening depression, unusual changes in behaviour, severe agitation, panic symptoms or thoughts of self-harm and seek medical help immediately if they occur.

Bupropion isn’t right for everyone, either. The prescribing information contains important contraindications and precautions, including seizure disorders and certain eating disorders. It also includes the careful management of alcohol or sedative withdrawal, interactions with other medicines. Patients should not take more than one bupropion-containing product at the same time unless a healthcare provider directs otherwise.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, follow the instructions that come with your prescription. MedlinePlus recommends skipping the missed bupropion dose and continuing with the regular schedule instead of taking a double dose.

Final thought

Wellbutrin SR is a prescription drug that is mainly used to treat major depressive disorder. It is formulated as a sustained-release tablet to deliver bupropion in a scheduled manner, and it works differently than many of the traditional antidepressants. The medicine can have important risks and interactions. So patients should take it as prescribed and talk to their healthcare professional about their medical history and current medicines.