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Wellbutrin SR (bupropion hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat adults with major depressive disorder (MDD).
Wellbutrin SR (sustained-release) is a type of medication called an antidepressant that works by changing brain chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine. The exact way it treats major depressive disorder is not fully known.
Wellbutrin SR weakly blocks these chemicals from being taken back up by nerve cells. This may help improve mood and other symptoms of depression.
Doctors prescribe Wellbutrin SR when an adult is being treated for major depressive disorder (MDD).
Wellbutrin SR is given as a tablet by mouth. Do not chew, divide, or crush the tablets.
Treatment usually starts with one dose each morning. After three days, the dose may be increased to two doses per day. Doses should be taken at least eight hours apart.
The recommended starting dose of Wellbutrin SR for depression in adults is 150 milligrams once daily in the morning. The usual target dose is 300 milligrams per day, given as 150 milligrams two times daily.
After several weeks at 300 milligrams per day, a doctor may increase the dose to a maximum of 400 milligrams per day if needed. The maximum dose is given as 200 milligrams two times daily.
Doctors may lower the dose or reduce how often it is taken for individuals with liver or kidney problems.
This information is based on the prescribing information, but your healthcare provider may tailor your treatment plan. Always follow their guidance.
In clinical trials of Wellbutrin SR for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults, the most common side effects occurred in about 5 percent to 26 percent of people. These include:
Wellbutrin SR can cause serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention. These include:
Get medical help right away if you think you are having a serious reaction.
The manuscript does not include a specific copay, savings, or patient assistance program for Wellbutrin SR.
Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider whether lower-cost options, manufacturer programs, or other prescription savings resources may be available to you.
Before starting Wellbutrin SR, your doctor will check your blood pressure.
Tell your doctor if you or your family have a history of bipolar disorder, mania, depression, or suicidal thoughts or actions. Also tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, diabetes, a head injury, a tumor in your brain or spine, or if you use prescription medicines or street drugs for nonmedical purposes.
Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to bupropion hydrochloride or any ingredients in Wellbutrin SR.
Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Wellbutrin SR is not approved to help people stop smoking, but it contains the same active ingredient in medicines used for smoking cessation.
Do not take Wellbutrin SR if you:
If you miss a dose, do not take an extra tablet to make up for the missed dose.
There is a pregnancy registry for people who take Wellbutrin SR during pregnancy. To learn more, visit the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants or call 866-961-2388.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding while taking Wellbutrin SR, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.
These answers are fact-checked by our editorial staff.
How effective is Wellbutrin SR?
In studies of adults with major depressive disorder, bupropion improved depression scores more than placebo (an inactive treatment) over four to six weeks.
In one six-week outpatient study using 300 milligrams per day, people taking bupropion improved by 3.9 points more than placebo on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, which measures depression symptoms.
In a longer study, people who improved after eight weeks of treatment with Wellbutrin SR 150 milligrams two times daily had lower relapse rates over the next 44 weeks when they stayed on Wellbutrin SR instead of switching to placebo.
How long does Wellbutrin SR take to work for depression?
Studies of Wellbutrin SR in people with major depressive disorder looked at treatment results over four to six weeks. Another study looked at whether improvement continued after people first responded during eight weeks of treatment.
The clinical study results do not say exactly when each person may start to feel symptom relief.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Wellbutrin SR for depression?
If you miss a dose, do not take an extra tablet to make up for the missed dose.
Swallow Wellbutrin SR tablets whole. Do not chew, divide, or crush them.
When prescribed more than 150 milligrams per day, Wellbutrin SR is usually taken in two doses at least eight hours apart.
On MyDepressionTeam, people share their experiences with depression, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
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