Wellbutrin SR
® (
bupropion SR) is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of
depression (also known as major depression or clinical depression). It is a sustained-release (long-acting) version of Wellbutrin
® (
bupropion hydrochloride).
Wellbutrin SR is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Generic versions are made by several manufacturers.
How Does Wellbutrin SR Work?
Wellbutrin SR is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, or NDRI for short.
NDRIs affect specific chemicals within the brain known as norepinephrine and dopamine. These are two of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another.
As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release norepinephrine or dopamine. The chemical then enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it. When enough norepinephrine or dopamine reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any norepinephrine or dopamine that remains in the gap between the cells. This is called "reuptake."
Normally, this process works without any problems. However, when the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine become unbalanced, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Wellbutrin SR helps to block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine so that more remains in the space between the brain's nerve cells. This gives the chemicals a better chance of activating the receptors on the next nerve cell.
Currently, the only NDRI
antidepressants approved for use are medications containing bupropion. Wellbutrin SR is a sustained-release version of bupropion, usually taken twice a day. Bupropion also comes in several other forms, including:
- Wellbutrin® (bupropion hydrochloride), a short-acting version, taken three or four times a day
- Wellbutrin XL® (bupropion XL), the longest-acting version, taken once a day
- Zyban® (bupropion SR), a sustained-release version used for smoking cessation, taken twice a day.
Studies of
Wellbutrin (the short-acting version of Wellbutrin SR) have shown that the medication is effective for
depression treatment. While it is assumed that Wellbutrin SR is equally effective, the same studies have not been performed with this drug.
Some general considerations for when and how to take Wellbutrin SR include the following:
- The medication comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, usually twice a day.
- Be sure to swallow the tablets whole. They should not be cut, crushed, broken, or chewed.
- You can take Wellbutrin SR with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Wellbutrin SR should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For Wellbutrin SR to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Wellbutrin SR your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Wellbutrin SR
As with any medicine, side effects can occur with
Wellbutrin SR. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the most common side effects include but are not limited to:
(Click Wellbutrin SR Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report to your healthcare provider.)
You can also read about specific side effects in the following eMedTV articles:
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
In addition, tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Alternatives to Wellbutrin SR
Depression, even in its most severe form, is highly treatable. As with many illnesses, getting
depression treatment early is more effective and reduces the chances of recurrence.
The most common forms of treatment for depression are medication (
antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In some cases of severe depression, healthcare providers may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Some people may also try complementary or alternative treatments for depression
(see Natural Remedies for Depression).
For most people,
Wellbutrin SR is quite effective at treating depression. It is also generally well tolerated. However, side effects may occur or the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative. Some examples of substitute depression medications include:
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Wellbutrin SR may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Fainting
- A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- A fever
- Muscle tension, pain, and damage
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Breathing problems
- Coma
- Loss of life.
If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Wellbutrin SR Be Stored?
Wellbutrin SR should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat. The tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Wellbutrin SR as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Wellbutrin SR tablets are available in three strengths:
- Wellbutrin SR 100 mg
- Wellbutrin SR 150 mg
- Wellbutrin SR 200 mg.
