Bupropion Hcl Sr 150 Mg

Bupropion HCl SR 150 mg, commonly known by its brand name Wellbutrin SR, is a medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is also approved for smoking cessation, marketed under the brand name Zyban. Bupropion belongs to the class of drugs known as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRI), which work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine.

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism of action of bupropion is not fully understood, but it is known to affect the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters in the brain associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. By inhibiting the reuptake of these neurotransmitters, bupropion increases their levels in the synaptic cleft, enhancing neurotransmission. This action is thought to contribute to its antidepressant and smoking cessation effects.

Uses

1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Bupropion is used as an adjunctive treatment or monotherapy for the treatment of MDD. It’s particularly favored for its lack of sexual side effects compared to other antidepressants and its ability to help with weight loss, which can be beneficial for patients who experience weight gain with other antidepressants.

2. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): It is used to prevent the recurrence of SAD in patients who have experienced it in the past.

3. Smoking Cessation: Under the brand name Zyban, bupropion is prescribed to aid in smoking cessation. It helps to reduce cravings for nicotine and the pleasurable effects of smoking.

Dosage and Administration

For the treatment of MDD, the typical starting dose is 150 mg once daily, which can be increased to 150 mg twice daily after a minimum of 4 days. The maximum dose for MDD is 450 mg per day, given as 150 mg three times daily.

For smoking cessation, the dosage regimen is slightly different. Treatment with bupropion hydrochloride tablets should be initiated while the patient is still smoking, as it takes approximately one week of treatment to achieve steady-state blood levels. Patients should set a target quit date within the first two weeks of treatment. The dosage is 150 mg per day for the first three days, then increased to 150 mg twice daily for the remainder of the treatment.

Side Effects

Common side effects of bupropion include dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, and tremors. More serious but less common side effects can include seizures, which have been estimated to occur in approximately 1 in 1,000 patients treated at doses up to 450 mg/day and in about 2.2 in 1,000 patients treated at doses of 450 mg/day or more.

Interactions and Precautions

Bupropion can interact with a number of medications, including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-seizure medications, by increasing the risk of seizures. It should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as seizure disorders, eating disorders, or liver disease, and in those taking certain drugs, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Conclusion

Bupropion HCl SR 150 mg is a valuable medication for treating depression, seasonal affective disorder, and aiding in smoking cessation. Its unique mechanism of action compared to other antidepressants offers benefits such as fewer sexual side effects and assistance with weight management. However, like all medications, it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider to minimize risks and maximize benefits.

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