Wellbutrin is a brand-name prescription medication prescribed to treat depression symptoms. Wellbutrin can also effectively treat symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition characterized by depression that happens around the same time every year, often in the winter. It has also been used to help patients quit smoking.

Wellbutrin is classified as an antidepressant. Unlike other antidepressant medicines, the body metabolizes and tolerates Wellbutrin uniquely well. This results in milder, more manageable side effects. Wellbutrin carries many similar benefits to other antidepressants but is less likely to cause adverse effects. It is supplied as an extended- or regular-release oral tablet. Wellbutrin contains the drug bupropion, also available in generic form.

Health care providers prescribe Wellbutrin to treat depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder. It may also be prescribed with nicotine replacement therapy to help patients quit smoking.

The CDC estimates that almost 19% of Americans exhibited some symptoms of depression in 2019. Depression, which frequently results from chemical imbalances in the brain, is characterized by a persistently depressed mood and a loss of interest in activities.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs around the same time every year (usually in the fall and winter). Seasonal Affective Disorder can result in feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and social withdrawal.

Wellbutrin is classified as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (DNRI). Dopamine and norepinephrine are two chemicals produced naturally in the brain responsible for stabilizing your mood and telling your brain to feel happy. Sometimes, your brain reabsorbs these chemicals too quickly after they are produced, keeping them from doing their job. The absorption process is called “reuptake.” Wellbutrin is a reuptake inhibitor, which keeps the body from absorbing these chemicals too quickly. By doing so, Wellbutrin can improve mood and stimulate the “reward pathways” that can help alleviate symptoms of depression and SAD.

These same effects play a part in Wellbutrin’s use as an anti-smoking aid. By blocking dopamine reuptake in the brain, Wellbutrin helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms that may occur as you stop smoking. Wellbutrin reduces the urge to smoke by elongating feelings of motivation and reward. Along with nicotine replacement therapy, this action has been shown to be very effective in helping patients quit smoking.

Wellbutrin is quickly metabolized and is easily tolerable for most patients. Side effects are generally more mild and manageable than most antidepressant medications. The use of Wellbutrin has been shown to cause some side effects, however.

Common side effects reported from Wellbutrin use include:

• Drowsiness
  
• Anxiety
  
• Insomnia
  
• Excessive sweating
  
• Headache
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Constipation
  
• Uncontrollable shaking
  
• Weight loss
  
• Frequent urination
  
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects, though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as a skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, or difficulty swallowing or breathing while taking Wellbutrin.

Additional adverse effects requiring immediate medical attention include:

• Seizures
  
• Confusion
  
• Hallucinations
  
• Rapid heartbeat
  
• Irrational fears
  
  

WARNING: In short-term studies of major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders, antidepressants showed an increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults compared to placebo. Depression and other psychiatric disorders are associated with an increased risk of suicide. Patients starting antidepressant therapy should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please immediately call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or 911.

As with all prescription medications, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with and any medications or supplements you currently take before taking Wellbutrin. Wellbutrin can interact with other forms of medicine, causing potentially serious side effects. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Wellbutrin usually comes as an oral tablet meant to be taken once daily, usually in the morning, with or without food. Depending on your body’s response to the initial dosage, your doctor may increase your daily dosage. Additionally, doctors may prescribe an extended-release version of Wellbutrin that is absorbed in the body more slowly. An extended release makes the effects of Wellbutrin longer-lasting and may also result in fewer side effects.

The exact dosage and schedule will vary depending on the patient's age, diagnosis, and body weight. Take the medication exactly as your doctor has instructed.

Talk to your doctor about what form of Wellbutrin is right for you. In addition, be sure to inform your doctor about any medications you may be taking before starting treatment with Wellbutrin. While the side effects of Wellbutrin are generally mild, it may interact with other medications, causing severe side effects.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Wellbutrin is currently only available via prescription. This means a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription or refill an existing one. You can arrange same-day pickup at a nearby pharmacy. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether Wellbutrin is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Wellbutrin to be picked up near you—often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.