Wellbutrin treats major depressive disorder (MDD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and aids in smoking cessation. Off-label, it is used for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, and sexual dysfunction.
What are Wellbutrin’s main benefits?
Wellbutrin helps alleviate symptoms of depression, including sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and low motivation. It can improve focus, particularly in ADHD, and stabilize mood fluctuations in depression and anxiety. Additionally, it aids in smoking cessation by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
What are Wellbutrin’s most common side effects?
Common side effects for bupropion include tachycardia (abnormal heartbeat), sweating, weight loss, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth. Other possible effects are agitation, dizziness, headache, insomnia, migraines, tremors, blurred vision, and respiratory symptoms like sore throat, runny nose, and congestion.
How does Wellbutrin work?
Wellbutrin differs from other typical antidepressants in that it’s main affects dopamine and norepinephrine. It prevents their reabsorption in the brain, enhancing mood and energy. Unlike many antidepressants, it does not target serotonin or block specific enzymes.