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Newer Antidepressant Medication:
Wellbutrin (bupropion)
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Bupropion, or Wellbutrin, is a relatively new medication that is used to treat depression and recently,
has been found to relieve the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) for some people. Wellbutrin
works by altering the communication between nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain.
Bupropion is also prescribed to help people quit smoking. In this form, the medication is called
Zyban.
Along with the many positive effects of Wellbutrin, you may also experience some side effects. Side
effects are unintended or undesirable reactions to medications. Most of the side effects you experience can be
lessened with additional medications, dosage changes, or changes in your daily habits. Or, they may simply fade
as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor or clinician right
away and continue taking your medication.
It is also important to be aware of the risks of antidepressant medication. The risks occur very rarely, but it is important to know what to look for, just in case. If you think
you are experiencing one of the risks, contact your doctor or clinician or go to the emergency room right away!
| Most common side effect |
weight loss |
| Occasional side effects |
agitation, constipation, dry mouth, headache, insomnia, nausea, skin problems, tremors |
| Risks |
hypomania, seizures |
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Most common side effect
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Weight loss
You may experience decreased appetite and as a result, may lose weight even if you are not trying
to. Try eating smaller, but more frequent meals to take in more calories. Your doctor or clinician can help you
monitor your weight and suggest a high calorie (but healthy) diet for you if weight loss is a concern. |
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Occasional side effects
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Agitation
When you begin taking Wellbutrin, you may notice that you feel more irritable than usual, that the
littlest things annoy you. You doctor can help you determine if your increased agitation is a result of the medication
and may modify your dose if agitation is a problem. |
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Constipation
Wellbutrin can sometimes cause constipation. This side effect usually does not go away, but you
can learn how to control it by increasing the amount of high fiber foods in your diet, such as breads, fruits,
and vegetables, and bran. It also helps to exercise regularly and drink plenty of fluids. If constipation is still
a problem, your doctor may recommend a laxative or fiber product, or may prescribe an additional medication to
reduce the side effect. |
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Dry mouth
Some people taking Wellbutrin experience dry mouth. Although dry mouth may not go away completely,
it usually gets better with time. Dry mouth may be relieved by sucking on hard candy or crushed ice, drinking plenty
of fluids, or eating frozen grapes. |
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Headache
Wellbutrin can cause headaches, which often fade as your body adjusts to the medication. If you
experience headaches, and they 're disruptive, talk to your doctor before you take any pain medications. S/he can
let you know which medications are safe to take with Wellbutrin. |
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Insomnia
Insomnia can mean difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. If you develop insomnia, talk
to your doctor about it. S/he may suggest that you take your medication in the morning to reduce the effects or
s/he may prescribe an additional medication to help you sleep. |
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Nausea
Most people who experience this side effect notice that it usually disappears in a few weeks. To
reduce or eliminate nausea, eat several small meals per day instead of three big ones, or try snacking on dry toast
or crackers. |
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Skin problems
Some people taking Wellbutrin may develop an allergic reaction in the form of a rash, hives or itchiness.
Increased sensitivity to the sun is another skin problem that some people notice. If you develop increased sensitivity
to the sun, your skin will burn more easily in the sun than it normally would. You should always use sunscreen
when you go out, wear a hat with a wide brim, and avoid staying out in the sun for long periods of time. |
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Tremors
Wellbutrin may cause you to have tremors in your hands, arms or legs. You may notice a slight trembling
of your hands as you extend your arms in front of you. This side effect may disappear if your doctor decreases
your dose, and it often becomes less noticeable over time. |
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Risks
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Hypomania
Wellbutrin may cause an increase in mood called hypomania. Symptoms of hypomania include euphoria,
racing thoughts, pressured speech, and excessive energy. If you notice any of these changes, contact your doctor
right away. S/he can help you determine if your change in mood seems unusual.
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Seizures
A seizure is the result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. A patient suffering from a
seizure may experience involuntary body movements and/or a loss of consciousness. You will probably not be aware
if you are having a seizure; someone will tell you when you regain consciousness. If you have had a seizure, have
someone take you to the emergency room immediately. |
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