Wellbutrin XL

What Is Wellbutrin XL?

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).

 

 

Who Makes It?

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 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:

 

Effects of Wellbutrin XL

Clinical studies show that Wellbutrin XL is effective for treating depression and preventing seasonal affective disorder.

 

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, it is assumed that Wellbutrin XL is equally effective in treating depression and preventing relapse.

 

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 It

General considerations for when and how to take Wellbutrin XL include the following:

 

Dosing Information

The dose of Wellbutrin XL your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:

 

As is always the case, do not adjust your 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:

 

 

You can also read about specific side effects in the following eMedTV articles:

 

Drug Interactions

Wellbutrin XL can potentially interact with a number of medicines (see Wellbutrin XL Drug Interactions).

 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Wellbutrin XL?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug 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.

 

 

Are There Alternatives?

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. Examples of substitute medications include:

 

 

What If I Take an Overdose?

People who take too much Wellbutrin XL may have overdose symptoms that could include:

 

If you happen to take too much, 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 this and all medications out of the reach of children.

 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

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.

 

Available Strengths

Wellbutrin XL tablets are available in two strengths:

 

Generic Wellbutrin XL

Both brand-name and generic Wellbutrin XL are currently licensed for sale. The generic version is sold under the names Budeprion XL^® or bupropion XL.