Wellbutrin XL
® (
bupropion XL) is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of
depression (also known as major depression or clinical depression). It is also approved for the prevention of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is an extended-release version of Wellbutrin
® (
bupropion hydrochloride).
Wellbutrin XL is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline.
How Does Wellbutrin XL Work?
Wellbutrin XL is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, or NDRI for short. NDRIs, such as Wellbutrin XL, 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 either norepinephrine or dopamine. The chemical 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. But when the levels of dopamine or norepinephrine become unbalanced, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression and seasonal affective disorder. Wellbutrin XL 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 approved NDRI
antidepressants are those containing bupropion. Wellbutrin XL is the longest-acting version of bupropion, taken just once a day. Bupropion also comes in several other forms, including:
- Wellbutrin (bupropion hydrochloride), a short-acting version
- Wellbutrin SR® (bupropion SR), a sustained-release version (taken twice a day)
- Zyban® (bupropion SR), a sustained-release version used to quit smoking (smoking cessation).
Clinical studies show that
Wellbutrin XL is effective for treating
depression and preventing seasonal affective disorder.
Wellbutrin XL for Depression
In studies,
bupropion (the active ingredient in Wellbutrin XL) was shown to be effective for treating depression in adults. In long-term studies, the drug was also shown to prevent depression relapse. Although these studies used shorter-acting versions of bupropion, not Wellbutrin XL, it is assumed that Wellbutrin XL is equally effective in treating depression and preventing relapse.
Wellbutrin XL for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Three studies looked at using Wellbutrin XL for seasonal affective disorder. In these studies, people began taking the drug in autumn, before their depression symptoms started, and the medication was stopped in early spring. These studies showed that up to 84.3 percent of people taking Wellbutrin XL were depression-free at the end of their treatment, compared to 72 percent of those not taking the medication.
When and How to Take Wellbutrin XL
General considerations for when and how to take Wellbutrin XL include the following:
- Wellbutrin XL comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth once a day in the morning.
- Be sure to swallow the tablets whole. They should not be cut, crushed, broken, or chewed.
- You can take Wellbutrin XL with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Wellbutrin XL should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For Wellbutrin XL to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
Dosing Information for Wellbutrin XL
The dose of
Wellbutrin XL that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you are currently taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your Wellbutrin XL dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Wellbutrin XL
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Wellbutrin XL. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication quite 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.
The most common side effects of Wellbutrin XL include:
(Click Wellbutrin XL Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider.)
You can also read about specific side effects of Wellbutrin XL in the following eMedTV articles:
Drug Interactions With Wellbutrin XL
Wellbutrin XL: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Wellbutrin XL if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Alternatives to Wellbutrin XL
Depression, even in its most severe form, is highly treatable. As with many illnesses, getting treatment early is more effective and reduces the chance of recurrence.
The most common forms of treatment for depression are medication (
antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In 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). Light therapy (using a light box or another light source) may also be effective for treating depression related to seasonal affective disorder.
Wellbutrin XL is typically quite effective in treating depression. It is also generally well tolerated. However, side effects can occur, or the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative to Wellbutrin XL. Examples of substitute medications include:
What If I Take an Overdose of Wellbutrin XL?
People who take too much Wellbutrin XL may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Fainting
- A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia)
- Fever
- Muscle tension, pain, and damage
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Breathing problems
- Coma
- Loss of life.
If you happen to overdose on Wellbutrin XL, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Wellbutrin XL Be Stored?
Wellbutrin XL should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat. The tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep Wellbutrin XL and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Wellbutrin XL?
If you do not take your Wellbutrin XL 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.
Strengths of Wellbutrin XL
Wellbutrin XL tablets are available in two strengths:
- Wellbutrin XL 150 mg tablets
- Wellbutrin XL 300 mg tablets.
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