Wellbutrin
Indicated to assist in managing major depression and smoking cessation, this treatment is intended to address imbalances in brain chemicals to support lasting recovery.
- Categories
- Antidepressants · Addiction Recovery
- Active ingredient
- Bupropion
- Supply
- Pharmacy
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Modified-release tablet
- Strengths
- 150 · 300mg
Wellbutrin details
- Conditions
- Major Depressive Disorder · Tobacco Dependence
- Alternative names
- Zyban
- Therapeutic class
- Aminoketone Antidepressant
- Pharmacological class
- Antidepressant
- Known off-label uses
- attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Precautions and warnings
- may increase risk of seizures; monitor for changes in mood or behaviour
- Minor side effects
- dry mouth; insomnia; headache; nausea
- Moderate side effects
- tinnitus; anxiety; tremor
- Dosage forms
- Modified-release tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Pharmacist only, dispensed without a prescription
- Manufacturer
- GlaxoSmithKline
- Onset Time
- 1–2 weeks
- Duration
- 24 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store at room temperature, keep in the original container.
- Drug interactions
- alcohol; citalopram; tamoxifen; theophylline
- Age restrictions
- Consult your doctor for appropriate use in patients under 18.
Contraindications
seizure disorder; history of eating disorders; abrupt withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines; use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Serious side effects
seizures, requires immediate medical attention; hypertension, requires immediate medical attention; hypersensitivity reactions, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
Indicated to assist in managing major depression and smoking cessation, this treatment is intended to address imbalances in brain chemicals to support lasting recovery.
Mechanism of action
This medicine acts as a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor. By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, it helps regulate mood and reduces the withdrawal symptoms associated with nicotine cessation.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. Breastfeeding: Avoid during treatment as it is excreted in human milk.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin contains bupropion, an active ingredient used to manage Major Depressive Disorder and tobacco dependence. The same medication is also available under the brand name Zyban. GlaxoSmithKline produces these tablets in strengths of 150mg and 300mg to support various treatment needs.
Wellbutrin availability in Asia
Wellbutrin is registered across 11 markets including Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, with availability also in Taiwan, South Korea and the UAE. Generic bupropion, much of it made in India, provides a more affordable alternative to the original brand for expats and those located far from a major pharmacy. This medication is best utilised under the regular supervision of a doctor.