I want all information about the drug Welbutrin?

Answer 1

Here is an excellent resource:

http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/bupropz_cp.htm

Answer 2

It's a schedule II drug meaning it is federally controlled. It has been linked to suicide (many antidepressants are linked to suicide; however, welbutrin is a different case). And yes, doctors prescribe it to smokers or people with depression (people with other disorder/diseases also use welbutrin, but that is up to the doctor...)

Answer 3

My personal experience with Wellbutrin is that it has been more helpful to me than any other antidepressant, because it improves my energy level dramatically (I used to be sleepy all the time). On the negative side of this effect, it can cause you to be 'jittery' and have other symptoms such as dizziness, increased blood pressure and heart palpitations.

I have found this drug to have strong appetite suppressant effects, and it has also been very helpful to me in controlling habitual/obsessive behaviors. (This would be why it's also marketed to help quit smoking, under the name Zyban).

It's contraindicated in people who have had eating disorders or currently have one, because it can increase seizure risk, but I also think they put that warning because the appetite suppressing effects may trigger/exacerbate EDs.

When I was taking Effexor, if I forgot my pill for one day I had terrible withdrawl symptoms. I have not had this effect with Wellbutrin, but it may be due to a longer half-life or some other factor.

Overall the benefits of Wellbutrin have outweighed the few side effects for me. Obviously different drugs work for different people, but I can say that because I have tried so many antidepressants that haven't been effective, I can vouch for how well this drug is working for me. The main thing is to thoroughly examine the contraindications to see if you may react negatively or suffer health consequences. Check out http://www.wellbutrin-xl.com/ for a run-down of who shouldn't take this medication. Oh, and of course you should be involved with your doctor, but I know from personal experience that doing your own research (especially if you have a Dr. that isn't very thorough) is very important in finding the right medication.

Good luck!

Answer 4

it's an antidepressant
it's also used to help people quit smoking