How to Take Wellbutrin XL

Did you know that 280 million adults suffer from depression globally? Unfortunately, roughly 75% of these people do not receive treatment. The reasons people don’t receive treatment are numerous. It could be because they’re afraid of the side effects of anti-depressants or they can’t afford them. However, there are solutions out there. Wellbutrin XL is one of the best types of medications for depression treatment. With minimal side effects, it’s easy to see why it’s become so popular.

But how do you safely take Wellbutrin medication? Read this guide to find out. 

What Is Wellbutrin XL Used For?

While Wellbutrin XL, also known as Buproprion, is an effective anti-depressant, depression isn’t the only disorder treated with this medication. You may use a Wellbutrin prescription for the treatment of the following:

• Depression
• SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)
• Smoking cessation 

Some patients also use Wellbutrin XL as a treatment for anxiety, ADHD, or other disorders that are commonly comorbid with depression. However, there is not as much research on using Wellbutrin for these types of disorders. Talk with your doctor before beginning this, or any, prescription medication.

Common Wellbutrin Side Effects

Wellbutrin does not have many of the same side effects as other anti-depressants, such as lowered libido. Instead, common side effects of Wellbutrin include:

• Dry mouth
• Stuffy nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Sweating
• Headaches
• Rash
• Joint pain

Though these side effects are common, you should talk with your doctor if they begin to trouble you or do not go away. 

More serious side effects of Wellbutrin XL include:

• Seizures or convulsions
• Unusual behavioral changes or confusion
• Blurred vision, or halos around lights
• Eye pain or swelling
• Irregular or rapid heartbeats
• Manic episodes

Get medical help right away if you experience any of the above symptoms. Some antidepressants can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Talk to your doctor right away if you begin to notice this.

How To Safely Take Wellbutrin XL

Wellbutrin XL is an oral medication. It is a prescription drug, meaning you will need a doctor’s approval before beginning this medication. 

You can take Wellbutrin XL with or without food. For those with a frequently upset stomach, you should take it with food to ease its digestion. This medication is usually taken in the morning, as taking it later in the day may cause trouble sleeping

For Wellbutrin to work most effectively, you must take it regularly. Taking it at the same time each day can help you get into the habit of taking it.

Never crush, chew, or dissolve Wellbutrin tablets. This will release all of the drug at one time, increasing the risk of adverse side effects. You also should not split the tablet unless instructed to by your doctor or pharmacist. 

Determining Your Dosage

Your Wellbutrin XL dosage is determined by a variety of factors. These include:

• Your overall medical condition
• Your liver function
• How effectively you are responding to treatment

Your doctor will generally start with a lower dosage, 150mg. As treatment progresses, they may increase the dosage to 300mg. A gradual increase will decrease the risk of serious side effects. 

Taking more medication than prescribed will increase your risk of negative side effects. Always discuss a change in dosage with your doctor or pharmacist. 

Your doctor will likely monitor you closely throughout Wellbutrin XL treatment. It is important not to miss any appointments during treatment. They may also perform regular blood tests during treatment to check for any adverse side effects. 

Missed Doses

Sometimes, you may forget to take your medication. It happens. If you forget a dose, do not double dose to catch up.

Instead, you should simply skip the dose. Take your next dose the following day. 

Wellbutrin XL Interactions

Taking certain medications or using certain substances while on Wellbutrin XL can increase the risk of adverse side effects. Some products you should avoid include:

• Codeine
• Tamoxifen
• Pimozide
• Thioridazine

This is not a full list of drugs that may interact with Wellbutrin XL. As always, discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.  

You should also avoid taking MAOIs while on Wellbutrin XL, as these interaction side effects may be fatal. You should have at least 14 days in between treatment with Wellbutrin XL and an MAOI. 

Certain medical tests may also receive false results while on Wellbutrin XL. This includes brain scans for Parkinson’s disease and urine tests for amphetamines. You should inform doctors and laboratory technicians that you are being treated with this medication before taking these medical tests. 

Drinking an excessive amount of alcohol while on Wellbutrin XL can lower your seizure threshold. Conversely, those with drinking problems should avoid quitting cold turkey during Wellbutrin XL treatment. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may worsen the side effects of Wellbutrin XL. 

Affording Your Medication

Let’s face it, medication and medical care can get expensive. However, purchasing your prescription drugs from a Canadian pharmacy may help you to afford your medications. 

Prescription medications are cheaper in Canada thanks to socialized healthcare. If you are struggling to afford your medications, it is worth checking out. It is also generally legal. 

Take Control of Your Mental Health

Your mental health matters. Don’t suffer in silence out of fear of getting treatment. Wellbutrin XL may be able to help you tackle your mental health issues once and for all.

Wellbutrin XL is usually part of a larger treatment plan that may include therapy, exercise, and a specialized diet. Always talk with your doctor before beginning any new treatment program.

Contact our team for cheaper prescription medications, including Wellbutrin XL. We can help answer any questions you may have and help you find a medication plan that works for you.