Wellbutrin SR (Bupropion SR)

Do’s

• Before starting Wellbutrin SR and with each refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If there are any questions, consult with your healthcare provider.
• The dosage of Wellbutrin SR is based on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce the risk of side effects, your healthcare provider may direct you to start the medication at a low dose and gradually increase it. 
• Wellbutrin SR is typically taken twice per day, with doses at least 8 hours apart. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole.
• Taking the medication regularly at the same times each day helps to get the most benefit from it. If a dose is missed, wait and take the next dose at the regular time. 
• It may take 4 weeks or longer before experiencing the full benefit of the drug. If your condition does not improve or worsens, inform your healthcare provider.

Don’ts

• Do not increase the dose or use the drug more often or for longer than prescribed, as this can increase the risk of side effects 
• Do not crush or chew the tablets, as doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. 
• Do not stop taking Wellbutrin SR without consulting a healthcare provider, as the dose may need to be gradually decreased. 

Common Side Effects: 

• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Sore throat
• A fast heartbeat
• Abdominal pain
• Anxiety
• Appetite loss
• Changes in the way food tastes
• Drowsiness
• Flushing
• Gas
• Hair loss
• Increased sweating
• Joint aches
• Nervousness
• Restlessness
• Ringing in the ears
• Urinating more than usual
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Weight loss 

Severe Side Effects: 

• Allergic reactions
• Sleep problems
• Tremors
• Sweating
• Feeling anxious or nervous
• Fast heartbeats
• Confusion
• Agitation
• Hostility
• Rash

Seek medical help right away if any of these severe side effects are experienced while taking Wellbutrin SR.

Wellbutrin SR is contraindicated in patients with a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa, as a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with Wellbutrin. It is also contraindicated in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs.

The use of MAOIs (intended to treat psychiatric disorders) concomitantly with Wellbutrin SR or within 14 days of discontinuing treatment with Wellbutrin SR is contraindicated. 

There is an increased risk of hypertensive reactions when Wellbutrin SR is used concomitantly with MAOIs. Starting Wellbutrin SR in a patient treated with reversible MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated.

Wellbutrin SR is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to bupropion or other ingredients of Wellbutrin SR. Anaphylactoid/anaphylactic reactions and Stevens-Johnson syndrome have been reported.

To minimize the risk of seizure, the dose of Wellbutrin SR should be increased gradually. 

Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and advice regarding the use of Wellbutrin SR.