Wellbutrin, or bupropion hydrochloride, is an oral prescription medication used to treat major depression and seasonal affective disorder. Under the trade name Zyban, it is also used to help people quit smoking. Wellbutrin, manufactured by SmithKlineGlaxo, comes in two different strengths: SR, or sustained release, and the once-daily XL, or extended release. One of the side effects of taking Wellbutrin is weight loss. However, consult your doctor before you consider taking Wellbutrin specifically for weight loss because there are some serious side effects associated with its use.
Primary Indications
Wellbutrin is primarily indicated for the treatment of major depression. RxList describes major, or clinical, depression as a state of persistent depression that interferes with the ability to function on a daily level. Wellbutrin is thought to work by restoring the balance of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters in the brain, which promotes a feeling of well-being and improves mood. Wellbutrin is also approved for use in treating seasonal affective disorder and to decrease cravings and withdrawal symptoms in people who are trying to stop smoking.
Wellbutrin and Weight Loss
One of the side effects of Wellbutrin is weight loss. Other side effects, such as nausea and loss of appetite, may be the reason for weight loss some people experience while taking Wellbutrin. EMedTV states that up to 28 percent of those taking Wellbutrin lose over 5 lbs. A study reported in the medical journal "Obesity Research" found that patients taking 200 mg of bupropion twice daily tolerated the drug well and showed measurable loss of weight. However, be aware that Wellbutrin is not indicated by its manufacturer for weight loss; it is classified as an antidepressant medication.
Other Side Effects
Some serious side effects are associated with taking Wellbutrin, including the risk of seizure. Another serious risk is developing thoughts of suicide when first starting treatment with this medication. If you are under 24 years old, you will need to be checked regularly by your doctor for the first 12 weeks of treatment. Tell your doctor immediately if you are having thoughts of suicide, pounding heartbeat, chest pain, ringing in the ears or fainting spells. Other side effects produced by Wellbutrin include agitation, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness and a strange taste in the mouth. Interestingly, Wellbutrin can also cause weight gain in some taking it.
Precautions
Do not take Wellbutrin with MAO inhibitor medications such as isocarboxazid and phenelzine. You should not take this medication if you have epilepsy, a seizure disorder, an eating disorder or have recently stopped taking sedatives or drinking alcohol. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease or a history of head injury, liver disease or kidney disease, you may not be able to take Wellbutrin. You should not take it while pregnant or nursing.
References
- EMedTV: Wellbutrin and Weight Loss
- SmithKlineGlaxo: Wellbutrin XL Safety Information
- RxList: Wellbutrin
- Drugs.com: Wellbutrin Information
- "Obesity Research"; Bupropion for Weight Loss: An Investigation of Efficacy and Tolerability in Overweight and Obese Women"; K.M. Gadde, et al.; September 2001
- HealthCentral: Wellbutrin Oral
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