Depression is a treatable illness, and Wellbutrin is one of the medications used to treat major depressive disorder, among other conditions. Wellbutrin is generally well-tolerated, although as with any drug, there are side effects. One of the side effects of this medication is weight loss, although it may not occur in everyone who takes it. Talk with your doctor about whether Wellbutrin is appropriate for you and its possible effects on your weight.
What Is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin is one of the brand names for the generic drug bupropion. Bupropion is an antidepressant used in the treatment of depression and seasonal affective disorder. Sometimes it is also used to help individuals quit smoking. Wellbutrin may increase the risk of having seizures, and your doctor needs to know about any existing medical conditions or other drugs you take to minimize the risk of seizures and evaluate whether this drug is safe for you to consume. It may take some time for the full effect of the drug to be noticeable, and you will need weekly checkups for the first 12 weeks you are on the drug, says Drugs.com.
Dosing and Side Effects
There are multiple formulations of Wellbutrin; sustained release, immediate release and extended release. Depending on the condition for which you are taking this medication, the formulation of the drug and the dosing can vary, according to Drugs.com. Loss of appetite and weight loss are two common side effects of bupropion. Though typically not serious, if the appetite loss persists, talk to your doctor about it to make sure there is no underlying cause. Too much weight loss can be serious and loss of appetite may interfere with you getting the nutrition you need to be healthy.
Eating Disorders
If you have a history of an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia, talk with your doctor. Wellbutrin may not be the most appropriate medication for you, states the Physicians' Desk Reference. You may need to choose an antidepressant that will not cause weight loss or increase the risk of developing seizures. Maintaining a healthy weight is paramount for an individual with a history of an eating disorder, and Wellbutrin's effect on weight may not be healthy for these individuals.
Considerations
If you are taking Wellbutrin and are experiencing significant weight loss, talk with your doctor to see if this is safe for you. Make sure to tell your doctor about all other medications or supplements you may be taking, as Wellbutrin may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you are breastfeeding; your doctor may not want you to take Wellbutrin, as it is not known for certain whether this medication is safe for these populations.
Member Comments