Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: BUPROPION - ORAL (byou-PRO-pee-on)
BRAND NAME(S): Wellbutrin
Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat depression.
OTHER USES: This medication may also be used for quitting smoking.
HOW TO USE: This medication may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Take doses at regularly scheduled times each day. Do not take more or less medication than prescribed. Taking more than the recommended dose of bupropion will increase your risk of having a seizure. The maximum dose of bupropion is 300 - 450 milligrams per day, depending on your medical condition (stop smoking therapy vs. psychiatric conditions). If you have very severe liver disease, the maximum dose is 150 milligrams every other day. Do not stop taking this medication without notifying your doctor. Since this drug may cause sleeplessness at first, it is best not to take this near bedtime. It may take 4 weeks or more before the full effects of this medication are noticed.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication is generally well tolerated. Dry mouth, headache, increased sweating, nausea/vomiting, constipation, anxiety, fatigue and blurred vision may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Report promptly: unusual weight loss or gain, palpitations, agitation, trouble sleeping. Unlikely but report promptly: tremor, dizziness, fainting, slowed movements, difficulty urinating, decreased sex drive, drowsiness. Very unlikely but report promptly: unusual or severe mental/mood changes, severe headache, fever, muscle aches, yellowing of the eyes or skin. Seek immediate medical attention if the following infrequent but serious side effect occurs: seizures. Bupropion should be stopped permanently if you have a seizure while taking the medication. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include trouble breathing, rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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