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Medically Approved

Surprising results from Wellbutrin

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Updated on May 19, 2016

Feeling down? Wellbutrin might just be the answer for you. It’s generic name is bupropion, and it is used to treat depression. It is also used to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is basically seasonal depression. In other words, depression that only happens about one time a year, say, during the winter.

How does it do that?

According to PDR Health, Wellbutrin alters the chemicals in the brain, bringing them into balance. When those chemicals are working at the right levels, it improves your mood.

What are the side effects of Wellbutrin?

As mentioned on PDR Health, the common side effects are: dry mouth, constipation, headaches, migraines, sweating, tremors, trouble sleeping, blurred vision, fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, rash, hostility, or hearing problems.

Some (thankfully) less common side effects might include: manic behavior, unusual thoughts or behaviors, vision problems, allergic reactions or seizures.

Of course, be sure to talk to your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.

Who should take Wellbutrin?

While some of these side effects might make you cringe at the thought of trying Wellbutrin, do not be discouraged. WebMD states that, “many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.” And, it’s also worth noting that if your doctor prescribes the medication for you, it is because he/she believes the benefits outweigh the risks. So, then, who should take it? Anyone suffering from more sever forms of depression and that is not at risk for the more serious side effects. For example, if you are pregnant (as with any medication while pregnant, check with your doctor first), or prone to high blood pressure, heart problems, seizures, or have an eating disorder, this medication may not be for you.

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On a positive note…

Wellbutrin is in a different class (officially its particular class is known as aminokeytone) of antidepressants than some of the other well-known labels like Prozac or Zoloft. (Everyday Health) This means patients have noticed different results than they had with other medications. One of the biggest differences is that Wellbutrin is associated with weight loss, unlike most of its counterparts. Many also noted it didn’t have some of the less pleasant side effects of other medications, such as feeling tired and fog-headed.

Anything else?

A few side notes about Wellbutrin: It has also been prescribed to help quit smoking.

Since it can cause dizziness, it is definitely not recommended to take it while driving or working with heavy machinery, at least until you give it a chance to see how it affects you.

As with all medications, do not mix with alcohol.

It interacts with many other medications, so be sure to talk to your doctor about any other medications you are on before taking it.

It takes time for chemicals to change and balance themselves, so be sure to take the correct dosages at the correct times, and to give it time (about a month or so) to take effect.

Finally…

Wellbutrin has some very positive effects and some not-so-positive, so be sure to talk to your doctor and do your research about this unique medication. More information can also be found on our website, Optum Perks, where you can search, find, and save on prescriptions meds just like Wellbutrin.