Wellbutrin (Bupropion)

Do's

• Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using Wellbutrin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.
• The dosage of Wellbutrin is based on your medical condition, liver function, and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose to reduce the risk of side effects.
• Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Doing so can increase the risk of side effects without improving the condition any faster.
• Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider. Wellbutrin SR is usually taken twice a day. If you have stomach upset, you may take this medication with or after a meal or snack.
• The first dose should be taken as soon as you wake up in the morning, and the second dose should be taken at least 8 hours later, as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Wellbutrin XL is usually taken once daily in the morning. If you have stomach upset, you may take this medication with or after a meal or snack.
• Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets, as doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
• It may take 4 weeks or longer before you experience the full benefit of this drug. Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or worsens during this time.
• Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare provider. They may need to gradually decrease your dose to ensure a safe transition.

During the first week or two of taking Wellbutrin, common side effects may include:

• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Sore throat
• Fast heartbeat

Other common side effects:

• Abdominal pain
• Anxiety
• Appetite loss
• Changes in the way food tastes
• Drowsiness
• Flushing
• Gas
• Hair loss
• Increased sweating
• Joint aches
• Nervousness
• Restlessness
• Ringing in your ears
• Tremors
• Urinating more than usual
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Weight loss 

Severe Side Effects:

Some Wellbutrin side effects can be severe or potentially life-threatening. These may include allergic reactions (such as skin rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, and a feeling of tightness in your chest).

Other severe side effects:

• Fast heartbeats
• Confusion
• Agitation
• Hostility
• Rash
• Weight loss
• Increased urination
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Muscle or joint pain

Seek medical help right away if you experience any severe side effects while taking Wellbutrin.

Not everyone will experience side effects from Wellbutrin, and mild side effects are common. However, if you experience any side effects that last longer than expected, bother you, or become severe, talk with your healthcare provider for guidance and support.

Wellbutrin is contraindicated in patients with a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa, as a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with Wellbutrin.

It is also contraindicated in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs.

The use of MAOIs (intended to treat psychiatric disorders) concomitantly with Wellbutrin or within 14 days of discontinuing treatment with Wellbutrin is contraindicated due to the increased risk of hypertensive reactions.

Wellbutrin may cause seizures, and the risk of seizures increases with higher doses of the drug. Discuss all medical conditions and medications with your healthcare provider to assess the risk of seizures and determine the appropriate dosage.

Wellbutrin can cause severe high blood pressure. Your healthcare provider may monitor your blood pressure during treatment with this drug.

Antidepressants, including Wellbutrin, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Be aware of any changes in mood or behavior while taking Wellbutrin and seek medical attention if such changes occur.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

For more detailed information about the warnings and precautions for Wellbutrin, consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.