Wellbutrin is the brand name for the generic drug Bupropion manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. It is available in tablets of 75 mg and 100 mg. The 75 mg tablets are yellow gold in color and the 100 mg tablets are red and they are both film-coated.
Indications
The drug has been approved as a prescription drug for depression as well as for SAD or seasonal affective disorder which occurs in some people during fall and in winter. However, it is also prescribed for other used like stopping smoking, psoriasis and ADHD. It is prescribed for both adults and children. The tablet is taken in the morning and the there might be a need to take one or two more doses through the day. There must be six hours between each dose. It is also prescribed for certain sexual dysfunctions.
Action
The drug helps the certain chemicals in the brain stay there for longer and this helps the person to feel better and not feel blue or depressed. In smoking therapy especially, this drug reduces the dependence on cigarettes and functions like nicotine replacement in the body. In tests that have been done with this drug and placebos, the urge to smoke was greatly reduced in people who were administered this drug. The drug attains its peak activity within two hours of taking it.
Side Effects
Some of the side effects with this drug are nausea and vomiting, dry mouth, loss of appetite, dizziness, constipation, insomnia, blurred vision and increased sweating, elevated heart beat, hostility and aggression, confusion and hearing loss. There could also be changes in taste, joint pains, palpitations, menstrual changes and impotence. In some cases, there could be mood swings and suicidal tendencies.
Caution
Young children and teen should be closely monitored when on this drug due to the fact that it could be the cause of suicidal thoughts. There could be drug interactions too so the doctor should be kept fully informed about everything that you are taking whether it is medication or supplements, even herbal or natural supplements. Caution should also be exercised when the patient has a history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. The incidence of seizures is higher in this drug that most other anti-depressants so a watchful eye should be kept on the patient.
Contraindications
This drug should not be taken by people who suffer from epilepsy or by people who drink alcohol. It is also contraindicated in people who suffer from bulimia, anorexia and those who are on MAO inhibitors. Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid it as should people with severe heart, liver or kidney complaints. It is not to be given to very young children or to geriatrics.