Wellbutrin XL (Bupropion) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Wellbutrin XL? 

Wellbutrin XL (generic: bupropion HCl) is an extended-release oral medication indicated to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It is also used to prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD) – a type of depression that occurs at a particular time each year. 

This aminoketone antidepressant restores the balance of substances in the brain by inhibiting the neuronal uptake of dopamine and norepinephrine. It then improves the overall mood and feelings of well-being of an individual. This is available in Wellbutrin XL 150 mg and 300 mg tablet forms. 

How to use Wellbutrin XL 

To begin, read the medication information leaflet that comes with this drug. Never take this antidepressant without fully understanding all the information in the guide. If you need further medical advice or have queries on this treatment, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take this tablet orally. You may take it with or without a meal as directed by your doctor. If you develop a stomach upset, it is best to take Wellbutrin XL with food. Because this is an extended-release tablet, do not cut, crush, or chew to avoid releasing the ingredients at once. Swallow the medication whole and take it with a glass of water. 

Remember to take Wellbutrin XL regularly and with a dosing schedule. This is usually taken once daily in the morning, as this medication may cause trouble sleeping or insomnia if administered late in the day. Do not alter your Wellbutrin XL dosage as it depends on your medical condition, response to treatment. Increasing the dose or taking it more frequently than prescribed will not improve your condition, but will rather increase the risk of adverse effects.  

Side effects  

Common side effects of Wellbutrin XL: 

• Nausea 
• Dizziness 
• Headache 
• Vomiting 
• Throat irritation 
• Dry mouth 
• Lack of appetite 
• Weight loss 
• Trouble sleeping/insomnia 
• Joint or muscle pain 
• Increased sweating 
• Increased urination 
• Loss of sex drive 

In most cases, the adverse effects of this antidepressant drug are mild. If they worsen, talk to your doctor or contact your healthcare provider. Moreover, watch out for severe side effects: 

• High blood pressure 
• Unusual weight changes 
• Palpitations 
• Agitation 
• Confusion 
• Unusual behavior 
• Seizure 
• Eye pain 
• Widened pupils 
• Vision changes 
• This is not a full or complete list of Wellbutrin XL side effects. 

Precautions 

Before taking this oral drug, disclose your entire medical history to your physician. This particularly includes seizures, glaucoma, diabetes, hypertension, kidney problem, liver disease, and alcohol abuse. Some medical conditions could directly affect how you will respond to this treatment. Additionally, tell the doctor about prescription and nonprescription medications as they may interact with bupropion. 

Always watch out for an allergic reaction when using this oral drug. Do not take this antidepressant if you have a known allergy to bupropion or any inactive ingredients each tablet may contain. Signs of hypersensitivity reaction are hives, swelling of the face, skin rash, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Discontinue medication immediately and seek emergency help. 

Avoid alcoholic beverages or any substances that could make you dizzy. Practice extreme caution when doing activities that require clear vision and alertness, such as driving and using machinery, 

Do not use Wellbutrin XL if you recently stopped taking medications for seizures, like lorazepam. This is to avoid any risk of seizure. 

Closely monitor patients taking Wellbutrin XL for depression, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Call the suicide hotline when you notice warning signs of suicide, including change in personality or appearance, sudden calmness, sleep problems, and talking about suicide. 

If you are currently pregnant, may be pregnant, or breastfeeding, do not take Wellbutrin XL unless immensely necessary. This drug can also pass into the breastmilk and cause harm to a breastfed infant. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between Wellbutrin SR and XL? 

On Wellbutrin SR vs XL, the former is a sustained-release tablet, whereas the latter is extended-release. The extended-release variant is being released more slowly and stays longer in the system. 

Can I use this medication to quit smoking? 

Physicians also prescribe this drug for smoking cessation. 

Does Wellbutrin XL work for ADHD? 

Off-label, this medication is also used to manage ADHD because it improves focus and concentration. 

Is this medication safe for children? 

This drug is approved for children because clinical trials have proven this to be safe and effective for the said age group. 

How much is this medication? 

You may check the pricing of this product by clicking here.