Wellbutrin XL is an antidepressant that is used to treat the major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and other conditions. Wellbutrin XL contains bupropion which works by restoring the balance of natural chemicals in your brain such as norepinephrine and dopamine.

Always follow your doctor’s directions about taking medication.
Before using this medication, read the enclosed information and instructions.

• Wellbutrin XL can be taken with or without food but taking it with or after a meal can help to prevent stomach upset.
• Take Wellbutrin XL in the morning to prevent sleeping problems.
• Swallow Wellbutrin XL whole without crushing or chewing the capsules.
• It can take up to four weeks for Wellbutrin XL to be most effective.
• Do not stop taking Wellbutrin without speaking to your doctor, unless you are having a seizure.

Tell your doctor:

• Any prescription or over-the-counter medications that you take.
• Your medical history especially of seizures, brain tumors, brain injuries, head injuries, other conditions that may increase the risk of seizures, heart disease, kidney problems, liver disease, diabetes, hereditary glaucoma, or high blood pressure.
• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• If you have ever had an eating disorder.
• About your history of alcohol and drug use.

You should also know:

• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication.
• Wellbutrin XL can have undesirable effects on children who are breast-feeding.
• This medication can cause dizziness. Avoid driving or any other activity requiring alertness unless you can do it safely.

Common side effects of Wellbutrin XL:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Headaches or dizziness.
• Sore throat or dry mouth.
• Problems sleeping.
• Loss of appetite or weight loss.
• Ringing in your ears.
• Increased sweating.
• Shaking.
• Constipation.
• An empty tablet shell in your stool.

Seek medical help if you experience any of these bupropion side effects:

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, breathing difficulties, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.
• Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat.
• Raised blood pressure.
• Seizures.
• Unusual weight gain or loss.
• Eye pain, redness, or swelling.
• Widened eye pupils.
• Changes to your vision including seeing rainbows around lights or blurred vision.
• Mood or mental changes such as unusual thinking or behavior, anxiety, agitation, memory loss, or confusion.

What should I do if I miss my dose of Wellbutrin XL?

If you miss your Wellbutrin XL dose, take it when you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.

What is the strength of Wellbutrin XL?

Both Wellbutrin XL and the generic alternative Bupropion XL are available in strengths of 150mg and 300mg.