Bupropion for Weight Loss
Bupropion, also known under its brand name Wellbutrin, is most often used as an antidepressant and smoking cessation drug. However, a recent study conducted by Dr. Kishore Gadde of Duke University, published in the September issue of Obesity Research, found that women who consumed 1,600 calories a day while taking bupropion lost significantly more weight than those not taking this medication while following the same diet. Those who participated in this obesity study were not depressed and exactly how bupropion leads to increased weight loss is unknown. This is a prescription medication.
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Administration
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According to RxList, bupropion for weight loss is most often taken one to three times a day. This medication can be taken with food if necessary. The doses should be taken at least six hours apart and at the same time every day.
Side Effects
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When taking bupropion for weight loss, side effects may occur. The common side effects may include nausea, abnormal taste in mouth, vomiting, blurred vision, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, sore throat, constipation, joint aches and increased sweating. According to RxList, the serious side effects include seizure, fainting, changes in amount of urination, increased heartbeat, muscle pain, pounding heartbeat, tender muscles, irregular heartbeat, hearing problems, abnormal weight loss or gain, ringing in the ears, agitation, severe headache, uncontrolled movements, anxiety, hallucinations and confusion.
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Risk Factors
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Bupropion should not be taken by patients with certain disorders and conditions. According to RxList, these include certain allergies (particularly to bupropion), eating disorders, seizures, drug or alcohol dependence, suicidal thoughts, brain tumor, psychiatric disorders, diabetes, liver problems, head injury, kidney problems and heart disease.
Drug Interactions
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When taking bupropion for weight loss, patients may not be able to take certain other medications because there is a risk of interaction. According to RxList, these include other bupropion-containing drugs, iomeprol, thioridazine, sibutramine, MAO inhibitors, amantadine, warfarin, diabetes medications, sedatives, HIV medications, stimulants, levodopa nicotine products, antidepressants, phenytoin, antiarrhythmics, phenobarbitol, antipsychotics, beta blockers, carbamazepine, orphenadrine, thiotepa, cyclophosphamide, corticosteroids, tricyclic antidepressants, diet aids, and cough and cold medications.
Risks and Warnings
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Taking more than 450 milligrams of bupropion for weight loss per day may cause seizures. According to RxList, those who are trying to quit smoking should avoid bupropion unless this medication is specifically prescribed to help them quit. Also, bupropion does pass into breast milk.
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