As a result of poor dietary habits and inactive lifestyles, the percentage of people who are overweight or obese in the United States continues to be high. Although a healthy diet and exercise are important components of a weight-loss program, some individuals may require the use of prescription drugs to assist in weight reduction. Commonly prescribed for mood disorders, bupropion is a drug that has been studied for its potential toward weight reduction.
Obesity
As of 2008, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 30 percent of adults in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Individuals with a body mass index, or BMI, of 25 to 29.9 are considered overweight, while obesity is defined by a BMI of 30 or more. In addition to negative impacts on social and leisure activities, excessive weight is a leading risk factor for the development of heart disease, diabetes, skin infections and mood disorders.
Bupropion Hydrochloride
Available only by prescription, bupropion is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of certain depressive mood disorders. In addition, bupropion is also approved as part of a smoking-cessation program for individuals who wish to quit smoking. As a weak re-uptake neuronal inhibitor, bupropion is thought to increase the availability of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. As a result, individuals taking bupropion may experience a stimulatory effect.
Bupropion for Weight Loss
In trials examining bupropion for approved indications, investigators observed that patients taking bupropion also experienced significant weight loss when compared to placebo. This has prompted further research into the use of bupropion for the purpose of weight reduction. One study examining the effects of bupropion and weight loss published by James W. Anderson and colleagues in "Obesity Research" in 2002 found that patients taking sustained-release bupropion at 300mg and 400mg per day for 24 weeks experienced weight loss of between 7.2 and 10.1 percent when compared to placebo. In addition, weight loss was maintained at 48 weeks of the study. Use of bupropion for weight loss is strictly off-label since it has not been officially approved for this indication.
Bupropion Safety
Patients taking bupropion should be aware that side effects may include mood changes, seizures, suicidal thoughts, sleep disorders, headaches, high blood pressure, nausea, digestive upset and muscle pain. Other serious side effects are also possible, and patients using bupropion should read their drug insert for additional information about adverse side effects. Patients should also speak with a physician with concerns regarding the use of bupropion and treatments for excessive weight.
References
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Overweight and Obesity
- GlaxoSmithKline: Wellbutrin XL Product Package Insert
- "Obesity Research"; Bupropion SR Enhances Weight Loss: A 48-Week Double-Blind, Placebo- Controlled Trial; James W. Anderson, et al; July 2002
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