$Unique_ID{BRK01858}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{BUPROPION}
$Subject{Wellbutrin (Burroughs Wellcome)}
$Volume{}
$Log{
Wellbutrin*0185801.scf}

Copyright (C) 1991 Publications International, Ltd.


BUPROPION
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer):
     Wellbutrin (Burroughs Wellcome)
TYPE OF DRUG:
     Antidepressant
INGREDIENT:
     bupropion hydrochloride
DOSAGE FORM:
     Tablets (75 mg and 100 mg)
STORAGE:
     Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.

USES

     Bupropion is used to relieve the symptoms of mental depression.  The
exact mechanism of action of bupropion is unknown, but it is thought to
relieve depression by altering the concentration of certain chemicals that are
necessary for nerve transmission in the brain.

TREATMENT

     It is important to take your medication on a regular schedule as
recommended by your physician.  If you miss a dose and the next regular dose
should be taken in less than six hours, skip the missed dose and take the next
dose at the regularly scheduled time.  Never double the dose.
     The effects of this medication may not become apparent for several weeks.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Constipation, decreased appetite, decreased sexual ability, diarrhea,
dizziness, dry mouth, excessive sweating, fatigue, headache, irregular
heartbeat, insomnia, nausea, sedation, or vomiting.  These side effects should
decrease or disappear as your body adjusts to the medication.
     To relieve constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet (fresh
fruits and vegetables, salads, bran, and whole-grain breads), exercise, and
drink more water (unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise).
     To decrease dry mouth, chew sugarless gum or suck on ice chips or hard
candy.
     To avoid dizziness when you stand, contract and relax the muscles in your
legs for a few moments before rising.  Do this by pushing one foot against the
floor while raising the other foot slightly, alternating feet so that you are
"pumping" your legs in a pedaling motion.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
agitation, blurred vision, movement disorders, rash, tremors, or seizures.

INTERACTIONS

     1. Bupropion may decrease the effectiveness of carbamazepine,
phenobarbital, or phenytoin, which may lead to increased seizures.
     2. Bupropion can interact with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.  At
least 14 days should separate the use of this drug and the use of an MAO
inhibitor.
     3. Bupropion may decrease the effectiveness of cimetidine.
     4. Alcohol may increase the side effects of bupropion.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
any medications, especially to bupropion.
     * Tell your doctor if you now have or have ever had cataracts or vision
problems, seizures or epilepsy, bulimia, anorexia nervosa, mania, or
respiratory disorders.
     * This medication may make you tired or drowsy or affect your thinking
ability.  You should not operate potentially dangerous equipment or drive an
automobile until you know how this drug affects you.
     * Do not stop taking this medication abruptly or increase the dose unless
directed by your physician.  Stopping abruptly or increasing your dose in
large amounts can lead to increased side effects.
     * Do not take any over-the-counter medication or new prescription drug
without discussing it with your doctor or pharmacist.  Many over-the-counter
preparations and some prescription medications may interact with bupropion.
     * Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  In high doses, bupropion has
caused chromosomal changes in animals, but the effects in humans are unknown.
Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant.  This medication
can pass into the breast milk and potentially lead to adverse effects in the
infant.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
