Wellbutrin sustained release

Wellbutrin SR Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Warnings:

Bupropion is an antidepressant used for smoking cessation and to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. Antidepressants can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience new or worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication, even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.

Tell the doctor right away if you notice new or worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.

If you are using bupropion to quit smoking and experience any of these symptoms, stop taking it and contact your doctor right away. Also, tell your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms after stopping treatment with bupropion.

Warnings:

Uses

This medication is used to treat depression. It can improve your mood and feelings of well-being. It may work by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (dopamine, norepinephrine) in the brain.

How to use Wellbutrin SR

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using bupropion and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day. If you have stomach upset, you may take this medication with or after a meal or snack. Take the first dose as soon as you wake up in the morning and the second dose at least 8 hours later, or take as directed by your doctor. Taking this medication late in the day may cause trouble sleeping (insomnia). Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, liver function, and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster and your risk of side effects will increase.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

It may take 4 weeks or longer before you get the full benefit of this drug. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Side Effects

Precautions

Before taking bupropion, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney problems, liver disease, use/abuse of drugs/alcohol, seizures or conditions that increase your risk of seizures (including brain/head injury, brain tumor, eating disorders such as bulimia/anorexia nervosa), personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type).

This medication should not be used if you are suddenly stopping regular use of sedatives (including benzodiazepines such as lorazepam), drugs used to treat seizures, or alcohol. Doing so may increase your risk of seizures.

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). Alcohol can also increase your risk of seizures.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness and memory loss. Dizziness can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as depression, seasonal affective disorder, bipolar disorder) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.

This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: seizures, severe confusion, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, loss of consciousness.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, liver function) may be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. You may notice an odor from the tablets; this is normal and does not affect how they work. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Wellbutrin SR 150 mg tablet, 12 hr sustained-release

Color: purpleShape: roundImprint: WELLBUTRIN SR 150

This medicine is a purple, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "WELLBUTRIN SR 150".

Wellbutrin SR 100 mg tablet, 12 hr sustained-release

Color: blueShape: roundImprint: WELLBUTRIN SR 100

This medicine is a purple, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "WELLBUTRIN SR 150".

Wellbutrin SR 200 mg tablet, 12 hr sustained-release

Color: light pinkShape: roundImprint: WELLBUTRIN SR 200

This medicine is a purple, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "WELLBUTRIN SR 150".

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

What's the difference between Wellbutrin XL and SR?

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on Aug 18, 2022.

Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR both contain the same active ingredient which is bupropion.

Differences between Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR

The difference between Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR is how quickly they are released and then absorbed into the body. The Wellbutrin XL is an extended release tablet which releases more slowly than the Wellbutrin SR tablet which is released faster.

Another difference is that Wellbutrin SR is only used for major depressive disorder (MDD), whereas Wellbutrin XL can be used for both MDD and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is depression that occurs mainly in the fall and winter.

What is Bupropion?

Bupropion, the active ingredient in this medicine, is an antidepressant medication that works by changing the levels of chemicals in the brain.

Dosing of Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR

You should not change between Wellbutrin XL and SR on your own. Your doctor may switch formulations depending on your diagnosis and response to treatment.

The dose for Wellbutrin XL starts at 150 mg once per day, and may go up to 300 mg once per day. The dose is the same for both major depressive disorder and SAD. The daily dose is usually taken in the morning.

Wellbutrin SR is only approved to treat major depressive disorder. The dose starts at 150 mg once per day and may gradually increase to 150 mg twice per day. A maximum dose of 200 mg twice per day may be given if you haven't responded well to the 150 mg twice per day dose, and your doctor thinks it is needed. Wellbutrin SR is usually taken in the morning and mid-afternoon.

If you miss a dose of Wellbutrin SR, you should take it as soon as you remember and then continue with your usual dose schedule. However, because Wellbutrin XL is an extended-release medication, if you miss a dose, do not take it when you remember. Take it the next day at the usual time.

Do not stop taking Wellbutrin SR or XL on your own. Talk to your health care provider first.

Wellbutrin XL

Extended release form
Usually taken once daily
Used for major depressive disorder (MDD)
Used for seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Wellbutrin SR

Usually taken twice daily
Use for major depressive disorder (MDD)

References

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Bupropion (Wellbutrin). December 2020. Available at: https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Bupropion-(Wellbutrin). [Accessed March 2, 2021].
Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Wellbutrin XL Prescribing Information. May 2017. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021515s036lbl.pdf. [Accessed March 2, 2021].
Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Wellbutrin SR Prescribing Information. October 2020. Available at: https://gskpro.com/content/dam/global/hcpportal/en_US/Prescribing_Information/Wellbutrin_SR/pdf/WELLBUTRIN-SR-PI-MG.PDF. [Accessed March 2, 2021].

Drug information

Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin XL

Related support groups

Wellbutrin (368 questions, 1,510 members)
Wellbutrin XL (85 questions, 393 members)

Medical Disclaimer

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Adult Medication

Provided by Lexicomp ^® , this document contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: USA

Aplenzin; Forfivo XL; Wellbutrin SR; Wellbutrin XL; Zyban[DSC]

Trade names: Canada

MYLAN-BuPROPion XL [DSC]; ODAN Bupropion SR; TARO-Bupropion XL; TEVA-Bupropion XL; Wellbutrin SR; Wellbutrin XL; Zyban

Warning

Drugs like this have increased the likelihood of suicidal thoughts or actions in children and young people. This risk may be higher in people who have tried or had suicidal thoughts in the past. All people taking this drug must be closely monitored. If you develop or worsen disorders such as depression, nervousness, anxiety, grouchiness, panic attacks, and changes in mood or behavior, contact your doctor immediately. Contact your doctor immediately if you have suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts.

What is this drug used for?

Used to treat depression.
Used to prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Used to stop smoking.
This drug may also be used for other indications. Consult your doctor.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
If you have ever had seizures.
If you abuse alcohol and suddenly stopped using it.
If you are taking certain other drugs, such as anticonvulsants or tranquilizers, and you stop taking them abruptly.
If you have ever had an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia.
If you have any of the following health conditions: kidney disease or liver disease.
If you have taken medications for depression or Parkinson's disease in the past 14 days. These include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline. An episode of very high blood pressure may occur.
If you are taking any of the following drugs: linezolid or methylene blue.
If you are taking another drug that contains the same medicine.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (both prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

For all patients taking this drug:

Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
Avoid driving or doing other tasks or jobs that require alertness or keen eyesight until you know how this drug affects you.
This drug may affect the results of some lab tests. Tell all your health care workers and laboratory staff that you are taking this drug.
Do not stop taking this drug abruptly without consulting your doctor. This can increase the risk of side effects. If necessary, taking this drug should be stopped gradually, in accordance with the recommendations of the doctor.
High blood pressure has happened with this drug. Monitor your blood pressure as directed by your doctor.
This drug may increase the risk of seizures. The risk may be increased in people who take higher doses of the drug, who have certain health problems, or who use certain other drugs. People who abruptly stop drinking large amounts of alcohol or abruptly stop taking certain medications (such as drugs used for anxiety, insomnia, or seizures) are also at higher risk. Talk to your doctor to find out if you have an increased risk of seizures.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.
Check with your doctor before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can slow you down.
It may take several weeks to achieve full effect.
This drug is not approved for use in children. Consult your doctor.
If you are 65 years of age or older, use this drug with caution. You may experience more side effects.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.

If you smoke:

Not all drugs are approved for use to help you quit smoking. Check with your doctor to make sure you get the right drug.
When using bupropion for smoking cessation, the appearance of new or aggravation of existing disorders of the psyche, mood or behavior was noted. These disturbances include suicidal or homicidal thoughts, depression, violent acts, rage, anxiety and anger. These disorders have been observed in people with and without mental and mood disorders in the past. Consult your doctor.

What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be associated with serious side effects:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
Signs of high blood pressure, such as a very severe headache, or dizziness, or loss of consciousness, or blurred vision.
Feelings of confusion, inability to concentrate, or changes in behavior.
Hallucinations (a person sees or hears something that is not in reality).
If, after starting the medication, seizures become more frequent or severe.
Chest pain, angina pectoris, tachycardia, or abnormal heart rhythm.
Inflammation.
Dyspnea.
Hearing change.
Tinnitus.
Frequent urination.
Swelling of the gland.
Violation of motor functions.
Some patients may be at increased risk of eye problems when using this drug. Your doctor may order an eye examination to see if you are at increased risk for these eye problems. Call your doctor right away if you have eye pain, vision changes, swelling or redness around the eye.
Possible severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis). This can lead to severe health problems, which can be permanent, and sometimes death. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as redness, swelling of the skin with blistering or peeling (with or without fever), redness or irritation of the eyes, and sores in the mouth, throat, nose, or eyes.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention if these or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

All formulations:

Dizziness or headache.
Constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite.
Shiver.
Nervous tension and agitation.
Strange or unusual dreams.
Gas formation.
Dry mouth.
Sleep disorders.
Pain in the joints or muscles.
Irritation of the nose or throat.
Excessive sweating.
Unexplained fluctuations in weight.

Extended release tablets:

The tablet shell of some brand name drugs can sometimes be seen in the stool. For drugs of these brands, this is normal and does not cause concern. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

For all uses of this drug:

Do not take the drug more often than prescribed. This may increase your risk of developing seizures. Make sure you know at what intervals you need to use the drug.
Take in the morning if you are taking this drug once a day.
Take this drug with or without food.
If you cannot sleep, do not take this drug at bedtime. Consult your doctor.
Swallow whole. Do not chew, break or crush.
Keep taking this drug as instructed by your doctor or other health care professional, even if you feel well.
If you have difficulty swallowing, check with your doctor.

For smoking cessation:

You can take this drug for 1 week before you stop smoking.
Nicotine replacement and psychological help can be done at the same time for best results.
If you have not been able to stop smoking after 12 weeks of taking this drug, talk with your doctor.
When you try to quit smoking, you may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms even if you use quit smoking drugs like this drug. There are many signs of nicotine withdrawal. People who are trying to quit smoking have occasionally experienced depression and suicidal thoughts. Consult with your physician.

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

Skip the forgotten dose and return to your regular schedule.
Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

Store at room temperature, protected from light. Store in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.

General information about medicines

If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people's medicines.
Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
A separate instruction for patients is attached to the drug. Please read this information carefully. Reread it each time you refill your supply. If you have any questions about this drug, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient's specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its subsidiaries disclaim any warranties or liabilities related to this information or its use. The use of this information is subject to the Terms of Use found at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms.

Last revision date

2021-07-28

Copyright

Date last updated

Monday, December 12, 2022

instruction, use, analogues of the drug, composition, indications, contraindications, side effects in the reference book of medicines from UNIAN

Application of Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin - composition and form of release of the drug

Wellbutrin: how to take the drug

Wellbutrin - contraindications, side effects

Analogues of Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin - psychoanaleptic, antidepressant.

Application of Wellbutrin

Indication.

Treatment of major depressive conditions.

Wellbutrin - composition and form of release of the drug

excipients: microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose, cysteine hydrochloride monohydrate, magnesium stearate, white dye concentrate (Opadry OY-7300 White or Opadry YS-1-18202-A White), carnauba wax, black food coloring.

Dosage form. Coated tablets, prolonged release.

Wellbutrin: how to take the drug

Dosage and administration.

The drug begins to act no earlier than 14 days after the start of therapy. As with other antidepressants, the full effect of the drug is observed only after a few weeks of treatment.

Wellbutrin tablets should be swallowed whole and not divided, crushed or chewed as this may increase the risk of side effects, including convulsions.

The maximum single dose should not exceed 150 mg. Use Wellbutrin tablets in 2 doses per day with an interval between doses of at least 8 hours.

Wellbutrin - contraindications, side effects

Contraindications.

Wellbutrin is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to bupropion or to any of the components of the drug.

Wellbutrin is contraindicated in patients with seizures.

Wellbutrin is contraindicated in patients who are currently abruptly ceasing alcohol or sedatives.

Wellbutrin tablets contain bupropion and therefore should not be given to patients receiving any other drug containing bupropion as the incidence of seizures is dose dependent.

Wellbutrin is contraindicated in patients with current or history of bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa, because in this group of patients there was a greater incidence of seizures when prescribing the rapid release form of bupropion.

Co-administration of Wellbutrin and monoamine oxidase inhibitors is contraindicated. Between the abolition of irreversible MAO inhibitors and the start of treatment with Wellbutrin, at least 14 days should elapse.

Adverse reactions.

From the immune system: hypersensitivity reactions such as urticaria, more severe hypersensitivity reactions including angioedema, dyspnea/bronchospasm or anaphylactic shock.

From the side of metabolism and digestive disorders: anorexia, weight loss, impaired blood glucose levels.

On the part of the psyche: insomnia, sleep disturbance, agitation, anxiety, depression, dysphoria, disorientation, aggressiveness, hostility, irritability, anxiety, hallucinations, unusual dreams, depersonalization, delusions, paranoid thinking, suicidal thoughts and suicidal behavior, psychosis , euphoria, mania, hypomania, changes in mental state.

From the side of the central nervous system: headache, tremor, dizziness, taste disturbances, memory disturbances, anxiety, myoclonus, dystonia, migraine, attention disorders, vertigo, akathisia, dysarthria, convulsions, EEG disturbances, dystonia, ataxia, parkinsonism, motor coordination disorder, memory impairment, paresthesia, syncope, coma, delirium, sensory disturbances, dyskinesia.

On the part of the organs of vision: visual disturbance, diplopia, mydriasis, increased eye pressure.

From the hearing organs: ringing in the ears.

From the side of the heart: tachycardia, cardiac arrhythmias, ECG changes, myocardial infarction, increased blood pressure, edema, palpitations.

Vascular: increased blood pressure (in some cases significant), redness, vasodilation, postural hypotension.

From the digestive tract: dry mouth, gastrointestinal disorders, including nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia, toothache, gum irritation, intestinal perforation.

From the side of the hepatobiliary system: increased levels of liver enzymes, jaundice, hepatitis.

From the side of the skin and subcutaneous tissue: rash, itching, sweating, polymorphic erythema and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exacerbation of psoriasis, alopecia.

From the respiratory system: pulmonary embolism, bronchitis.

Learn more

Wellbutrin sustained release

Wellbutrin SR Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

How to use Wellbutrin SR

Side Effects

Precautions

Interactions

Overdose

Images

What's the difference between Wellbutrin XL and SR?

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Trade names: USA

Trade names: Canada

What is this drug used for?

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

For all patients taking this drug:

If you smoke:

What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

What are some other side effects of this drug?

All formulations:

Extended release tablets:

What is the best way to take this drug?

For all uses of this drug:

For smoking cessation:

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

General information about medicines

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

Last revision date

Copyright

Date last updated

instruction, use, analogues of the drug, composition, indications, contraindications, side effects in the reference book of medicines from UNIAN

Application of Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin - composition and form of release of the drug

Wellbutrin: how to take the drug

Wellbutrin - contraindications, side effects