Bupropion (Wellbutrin).

What is Bupropion (Wellbutrin)?

Pronunciation: byoo-PRO-pee-on
Generic name: bupropion
Brand names: Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL

This FDA-approved antidepressant medication is indicated for the treatment of depression and seasonal affective disorder. The generic name for Wellbutrin is Bupropion. 

Side Effects

These are some of the most common side effects linked to bupropion. Keep in mind that they can vary depending on the condition being treated and the specific form of bupropion you’re taking. If any of these side effects become troubling, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Sore throat or runny or stuffy nose
• Stomach pain
• Agitation
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Tremor
• Fast heartbeat or feeling of skipped heartbeats
• Sweating
• Ringing in the ears
• Muscle or joint pain
• Loss of appetite
• Having to pee a lot
• Rash

Serious Side Effects:

The most serious side effects of bupropion are outlined below, along with guidance on what to do if they occur.

Severe Allergic Reactions: Bupropion can sometimes cause serious allergic reactions. If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention.

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

In rare cases, bupropion may lead to suicidal thoughts or actions. It’s important to remember that depression and other serious mental health conditions are the leading causes of these feelings. If you’re in immediate danger of harming yourself, call 911 or reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Stop taking bupropion and contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of the following symptoms.

• New or increased thoughts of suicide or death
• Suicide attempt
• New or increased feelings of anxiety, depression, or other unusual changes in mood or behavior

Warnings & Precautions: Who Should Not Take Bupropion

Allergies to Ingredients – Do not take bupropion if you are allergic to it or any of the following:

• Aplenzin
• Forfivo XL
• Wellbutrin (including SR and XL formulations)
• Zyban

Your pharmacist can provide a full list of ingredients for the bupropion product you’ve been given.

Seizure Disorders or Epilepsy: Bupropion should not be used if you have a history of seizures or epilepsy.

Eating Disorders: Do not take bupropion if you currently have or have previously had an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia.

Sudden Withdrawal from Certain Substances: Tell your healthcare provider if you drink heavily and have recently stopped, or if you’ve suddenly stopped taking any of the following:

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., clonazepam, diazepam)
• Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital, butalbital)
• Medications used to treat seizures (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin)

FDA Approval

Wellbutrin (bupropion) initially gained FDA approval on December 30, 1985, for treating depression. However, due to a high number of seizures observed at the recommended doses, it was taken off the market in early 1986. It was later reintroduced in 1989 with a reduced maximum daily dose of 450 mg to lower the risk of seizures.

Types of Wellbutrin