Wellbutrin Side Effects

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant that is safe and
effective when used as directed and under close medical observation by
a reputable healthcare provider but it does carry a significant risk
for seizures. This medication works in the brain to alleviate symptoms
of depression but its exact action on brain function is unknown at this
time.

Because
seizures can be severe, dangerous, and quite frightening, anyone taking
it is well advised to be mindful of all Wellbutrin side effects and its
interaction with other drugs and medical issues.

Wellbutrin
side effects can be extreme under certain circumstances and other
pharmaceutical options may be better choices. Do not use Wellbutrin if
you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within two weeks
before beginning Wellbutrin therapy.

Do not take it if you
have a history of eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia;
seizures due to epilepsy, head injury, or for any other reason; or if
you have suddenly stopped long-term use of sedatives or alcohol. Avoid
Wellbutrin use if you drink large amounts of alcohol, especially on a
regular basis.

Avoid using Wellbutrin if you are taking any
other medication that contains bupropion. One such medication is Zyban,
often used to break an addiction to tobacco products.

Pre-existing
medical conditions that may trigger adverse Wellbutrin side effects
include allergies to foods, medicines, and other common allergens;
personal or family history of bipolar disorder, depression, substance
abuse, suicidal tendencies, or other mental issues; cardiac conditions
such as hypertension, congestive heart failure, or a recent cardiac
arrest; diabetes; and kidney or liver disease.

To minimize
the risk of seizures, possibly the most likely of the Wellbutrin side
effects, it is important to take your medication at the same time every
day, with as little variance as possible. It is also best to allow at
least six hours between doses.

Once therapy with Wellbutrin
has begun, it may take several weeks for the effects to become
apparent. Do not alter dosage during this period of time or discontinue
its use. Report all symptoms, including the lack of them, to your
prescribing physician and follow his or her advise meticulously.

The
effects of Wellbutrin, both beneficial and adverse, are more pronounced
in the elderly and in children. Close medical monitoring is important
and home healthcare providers and family members should carefully
monitor the patient for any adverse effects of the medication.

Med-Help is for informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations.