An Introduction to the Drug Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that is also known by the names Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban, Budeprion, Buproban and by its generic name bupropion. It has been used to treat depressive disorders, but also to help people stop smoking. It acts as anorepinophrine as well as a domamine reuptake inhibitor. With over 21 million prescriptions for Wellbutrin written, it is the fourth most prescribed antidepressant in the U.S.
Wellbutrin was developed by Burroughs Research in 1966. It was not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) until 1985. There is a higher risk of seizures when taking Wellbutris as it lowers the body’s threshold. It was temporarily taken off the market in 1986. But findings that the risk of seizure was due to high doses, Wellbutrin was returned to the market in 1989 with a recommended daily dose of no more than 450 mg.
Wellbutrin can help those who are depressed, but how can it help people stop smoking? It helps reduce the craving for nicotine, but it also reduces the withdrawal symptoms, two things that drive many people back to smoking once they try to stop. If you are prescribed Wellbutrin to help smoking cessation, you will probably be asked to take it between seven and twelve weeks. Once you are ten weeks into the treatment, your physician or counselor will advise you to stop tobacco use completely. After three months, the use of Wellbutrin will almost double your chances of remaining smoke free.
When taking Wellbutrin, you should avoid drinking alcohol. Any alcohol you drink will increase your chances of having a seizure while taking Wellbutrin. You should also notify your doctor if you have epilepsy or have ever had a seizure before taking Wellbutrin. Also notify him or her if you have had an eating disorder (anorexia or bulimia).
Disclaimer: Cliff Schaffer does not personally endorse or support any of the comments made within the writings of this article. |
