Wellbutrin: bid goodbye to depression

Wellbutrin is an anti-depressant that is chemically unrelated to the majority of anti-depressants including those in the SSRI`s class.

Drug Uses

Wellbutrin is often used to treat cocaine and nicotine addiction, bipolar depression, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD), lower back pain and chronic fatigue syndrome. Like Zyban, Wellbutrin can help smokers to kick the habit.

How to Take Drug

Wellbutrin is to be taken orally in the form of a tablet, one to three times a day. The tablets should not be cut, crushed or chewed. It takes a few weeks before the beneficial effects of Wellbutrin are felt. At the end of a period of treatment the dose should be decreased gradually.

Drug Precautions

Speak to your doctor before using this drug if you have (or have had) the following; seizures, head injuries or brain tumors, heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, alcohol dependence, allergies, intention to stop smoking, eating disorders, mania, kidney disease. Wellbutrin can cause dizziness and affect your coordination so avoid driving, operating machinery or doing any hazardous activity. Older people may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug so it is advisable that they speak with their physician before using Wellbutrin. Speak to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to before using this drug. Wellbutrin has not been tested exhaustively concerning its effects on pregnant women and the unborn child. Breastfeeding whilst using this drug should be avoided as this drug appears in the mother`s breast milk.

Drug Interactions

Consult your doctor if you are on any other medication before using Wellbutrin. Avoid the consumption of alcohol whilst taking Wellbutrin, chronic alcohol users however risk seizures if they suddenly stop their alcohol intake whilst using this medication.

Side Effects

Side effects of this drug are generally few and mild. It is possible that the following may occur; headaches, sweating, nausea or vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, anxiety, fatigue or blurred vision. If these symptoms should worsen then medical advice should be sought. Any of the following symptoms should be reported to your doctor immediately; tremors, anxiety, sleepiness or insomnia, headaches, diarrhoea, nausea, dry mouth, changes to your weight, impotence, decreased sex drive, mood changes, chills or fever, irregular heartbeat or pulse, itching, fainting, allergic reactions ( including breathing problems, rashes, changes to the appearance of the tongue, lips or face), high blood pressure (indicated by severe headaches or blurred vision), or dizziness / weakness indicating low blood pressure. Yellowing of the eyes or skin, seizures, mental problems or aching muscles are unlikely to occur but if they do seek medical assistance.

Other side effects may occur. If you suffer from any unusual or worrying symptoms then speak to your doctor urgently.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as possible if it is only a few hours late. If the time is within 4 hours of the next dose then skip the missed dose and take the next as usual.

Overdose

An overdose of Wellbutrin is dangerous and if suspected then urgent medical advice should be sought. Overdose symptoms include weakness, a fast heartbeat, seizures, hallucinations, loss of consciousness, heart attack.

Storage

Store away from light and heat, away from children and animals, at room temperature.