Bupropion: FDA Approved Drug with a Variety of Applications and Uses

For individuals who suffer from depression, there are countless prescription drugs on the market, both generic and brand name. For many depressed patients, the use of brand name drug, Wellbutrin, marketed under the generic name, Bupropion, is quite common. As a patient who has been prescribed Bupropion, it is important to understand the many useful applications of this prescription drug.

Bupropion, traditionally prescribed for use as an antidepressant, has shown to be quite effective in treating other health complications including ADHD, panic disorders and even applied in the use of a smoking cessation program when marketed under the brand name of Zyban. Because Bupropion is not a tricyclic composition, the side effects commonly experienced with tricycle antidepressants are rarely exhibited. As a result, Bupropion, as a generic drug, is making great strides in treating these various health complications.

Whether suffering from depression or simply want to participate in a smoking cessation program, Bupropion can be dosed as often as three times per day in 100 to 150 milligram doses and is never given in more than a 300 milligram, per dose, application. Because the therapeutic benefits of Bupropion are slow and progressive, many patients find great benefit in lower dose administration, initially, with a gradual increase in dosing over several weeks of medication therapy.

As with most FDA approved drugs, the use of Bupropion, whether to treat depression, ADHD, panic disorders or in a smoking cessation effort, may result in side effects and is contraindicated in some patients. Side effects most commonly reported involve loss of appetite, weight loss, restlessness, confusion and even insomnia. At the initial dosing of Bupropion, some patients report complications such as headache and dizziness but, generally, these symptoms will dissipate with treatment.

Contraindicated in patients who suffer from seizure disorder, Bupropion should also be used, cautiously, in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally, those with high blood pressure, suicidal tendencies and those with a history of alcohol or drug abuse should not be given Bupropion.

When suffering from depression, ADHD, panic disorders or simply want to engage in a smoking cessation program, there are a variety of prescription medications on the market to consider. If, however, you are experiencing any combination of these conditions, the use of generic Bupropion may provide the effective therapeutic treatment in one convenient tablet. Consult a healthcare professional regarding the use of Bupropion as an optional treatment plan rather than using multiple medications to achieve the same results.