Unfiltered Overview of Wellbutrin
Title: Navigating Wellbutrin (Bupropion) Side Effects: A Comprehensive Guide
Wellbutrin, the brand name for bupropion hydrochloride, is a prescription medication that's been around since 1985. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized its use for:
- Treating major depressive disorder (MDD or depression)
- Preventing seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
This medication is meant for long-term treatment and is available in various forms, including sustained-release (SR) and extended-release (XL) tablets. The detailed mechanics behind how it functions aren't fully understood yet, but it's believed to act as a weak norepinephrine/dopamine-reuptake inhibitor, thereby elevating their levels in the brain.
Let's dive into the more detailed, yet unfiltered, information about Wellbutrin's side effects.
Common Side Effects of Wellbutrin
As with any medication, the use of Wellbutrin can lead to various side effects. Some of the more prevalent side effects reported in clinical trials for Wellbutrin's SR and XL formulations are:
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Sleep problems, such as insomnia
- Headache
However, if these side effects persist, bother you, or intensify, it's essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist immediately. It's also worth noting that the FDA collects and tracks side effects of approved drugs, so if you notice any while taking Wellbutrin, you can report them through MedWatch.
Mild Side Effects of Wellbutrin
Although less severe, mild side effects can still occur as a result of Wellbutrin usage. A non-exhaustive list of such side effects includes:
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Skin rash
- Sleep problems, such as insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Tremor
- Agitation (restlessness)
- Heart palpitations
- Ringing in the ears
- Muscle aches
- Memory loss
- Sore throat
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Hot flashes
- Increased or decreased libido
- Headache
- Changes in body weight, such as weight loss or weight gain
- Mild allergic reaction
Once again, if these mild side effects persist or cause concern, it's vital to speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious Side Effects of Wellbutrin
Rare but potentially severe side effects can occur with Wellbutrin usage. Although these side effects are less common with proper use, it's still crucial to remain vigilant. Serious side effects that have been reported include:
- Closed-angle glaucoma: Symptoms include dilated pupils, blurry vision, loss of vision, eye pain, and halos around lights.
- Mania and hypomania episodes: Symptoms include changes in mood, feeling more irritated, talking faster than normal, aggressive behavior, and intense increases or decreases in energy levels.
- Mental health changes: Symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, changes in concentration, paranoia, confusion.
- High blood pressure.
- Seizures.
- Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.***
- Severe allergic reaction.*
If you experience any of these severe side effects, it's crucial to contact your doctor immediately. If the symptoms seem life-threatening or you think you're having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
It's worth noting that this article is an unfiltered and unbiased reinterpretation of the original text. While we strive for neutrality and accuracy, mistakes and oversights might have occurred. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider for medical advice.
Although rare, the use of Wellbutrin may potentially lead to serious side effects, including a risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It's essential to immediately contact your doctor if you notice any signs indicating these severe side effects.
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