Wellbutrin is a commonly prescribed antidepressant in the US and is also known by its generic name Bupropion. It has been prescribed in the US since 1985 as a treatment for depression. Although some doctors also use it to help patients looking to give up smoking, as well as for other off-label treatments which you can read more about below.

One of the reasons that doctors prescribe Wellbutrin over other kinds of antidepressants like SNRIs and SSRIs is that they minimize the risk of unwanted side effects such as sexual dysfunction, and weight gain. However, it is important to note that Wellbutrin can cause seizures in some people, and that is why it’s crucial to only take it under medical guidance.

Unlike most antidepressants which tend to be SSRIs or SNRIs, Wellbutrin belongs to a type of drug known as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs). NDRIs increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.

What is Wellbutrin Prescribed For?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the prescribing of Wellbutrin for the treatment of two conditions. The first is major depressive disorder (MDD), while the second is seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Medical professionals can also prescribe Wellbutrin for other uses as well. This is what is known as off-label use. The off-label uses of Wellbutrin include helping with obesity, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and bipolar disorder. PTSD and social anxiety disorder are also off-label uses for Wellbutrin.

How Does Wellbutrin Work?

Wellbutrin works on the substances in the brain that carry signals between neurons. These are known as Neurotransmitters and they are vital to regulating our moods.

Wellbutrin acts on the way our bodies make neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.

Having the right amount of dopamine is crucial because it plays a major role in many vital functions like mood, sleep, pleasure, motivation, and learning.

While having the right amount of norepinephrine is important because it is what keeps your body focused, alert and primed for action. Indeed, too little norepinephrine can lead to conditions such as ADHD, while too much can lead to anxiety.

What Are The Side Effects of Wellbutrin?

While Wellbutrin can be beneficial for those with the conditions mentioned above, it does have some side effects that may occur and of which you need to be aware.

Remember to see your doctor right away if you notice any of the following side effects.

The most common side effects of Wellbutrin include dry mouth, hyperventilation, anxiety, irritability, irregular heartbeat, restlessness, difficulty getting to sleep and shaking.

Some of the less common side effects of Wellbutrin include severe headaches, skin rashes, itching or hives, and a ringing or buzzing in the ears.

Very rarely, Wellbutrin may cause side effects such as difficulties concentrating, seizures, extreme distrust of people, fainting, hallucinations, paranoia and confusion.