Bupropion

Brand Names: Amfebutamone, Wellbutrin, Zyban

Commonly Prescribed for: Bupropion, initially known as a typical antidepressant, is now widely recognized as smoking cessation aid. It is an effective antidepressant itself, yet it is also particularly popular as an add-on medication in the cases of incomplete response to the first-line SRRI antidepressant.

How to Take It: Bupropion is usually taken in one, two or three daily dose. For depression, the dose of immediate release is 100mg 3 times daily—max dose is 450 mg daily. For smoking cessation, Bupropion is taken at 150 mg once daily for three days, and then it is gradually increased as the patient tolerate the initial dose. Wellbutrin SR is taken twice daily, while Wellbutrin XL is taken once daily.

How It Works: Bupropion affects neurotransmitters, the chemicals within the brain that nerves use to send messages to each other. By inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine, Bupropion allows more dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine transmitting messages. It reduces depression, which by many experts is believed to be caused by the imbalance of transmitted neurotransmitters.

Some Side Effects: The most common problems occurred due to the Bupropion medication are agitation, dry mouth, insomnia, headache, nausea, constipation and tremor. Some people may lose their weight. Rare cases of manic disorders and hallucinations have also been reported. When doses reaches 450 mg/day, the risk jumps into ten-fold. Antidepressants also increase the risk of suicidality in short-term.