Bupropion is a type of antidepressant that can is used for treating depression in the UK and elsewhere. It is sold under the brand names Wellbutrin and Zyban. It’s an atypical antidepressant, and usually not the first choice for treating depression. Instead, bupropion is mostly used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) as well as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Interestingly, bupropion is also used to enable people to stop smoking (often as Zyban).

Sometimes doctors prescribe bupropion for other reasons. For example, it may be prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Finding the right medication can sometimes be a matter of trial and error. Especially with managing major depressive illnesses, the right antidepressants like bupropion can be life changing.

How should I take bupropion?

Bupropion comes in a tablet form and you will be given directions from your doctor. Swallow tablets whole, with a drink, at the same time each day. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next dose. In this case, skip the dose and resume taking according to your schedule. Follow the directions on the packet – you will usually need to take your bupropion tablets 2-3 times a day.

Ask your doctor for advice when stopping bupropion. Stopping antidepressants can be difficult and you may need additional support.

How much and how long you take bupropion will depend on why you are taking it. For example, if you choose bupropion to stop smoking, you are usually advised to take it for one week before quitting. You should manage to quit within 7-12 weeks of taking bupropion. You may need to use nicotine replacement products, such as gum or patches, alongside bupropion. Nonetheless, it is still normal to experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

Are there any side effects of bupropion?

All medications can cause side effects and usual care should be taken, especially with the factors listed in the section ‘Take care when taking bupropion.’

Signs of an allergic reaction should be acted on immediately. If you have a seizure, then get medical help immediately. Common side effects, especially when you first taking bupropion include:

• Dry mouth and sore throat
• Stuffy nose
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Blurry vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Reduced appetite
• Constipation
• Increased feelings of anxiety
• Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
• Confusion
• Weight loss
• Increased need to urinate
• Headache
• Muscle and joint pain

Side effects usually ease once you are used to taking the medication.

Take care with bupropion

As with all medications, care must be taken to ensure its safe use. However, certain antidepressants, including bupropion, come with additional warnings in the UK. Bupropion is one of the antidepressants associated with increased risk of suicide, particularly in young people, in the early weeks of taking it. Awareness of increased suicidal ideation is paramount when first starting this medication and support should be given. It is not approved for use in people under 18 years.

Additionally, bupropion isn’t recommended if you have an eating disorder or suffer from seizures. It also shouldn’t be used if you have suddenly stopped drinking alcohol regularly or have stopped regular sedatives or anti-seizure medication. Drinking alcohol at the same time as taking bupropion can cause seizures, so ask your doctor for advice.

If you are already taking Wellbrutin or non-branded bupropion, for example for depression, you mustn’t then take Zyban to stop smoking as this could lead to an overdose.

Furthermore, you shouldn’t take bupropion either 14 days before or after using an MAO inhibitor.

It is important to follow a doctor’s advice when taking bupropion. Your doctor will ask relevant questions about your medical history including about your mental health, but also other relevant conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and narrow-angle glaucoma.

Bupropion can cause you to show positive on urine drug screening. You will need to disclose that you are taking it if this applies to you.

Lastly, it may be necessary to monitor your blood pressure while you are taking bupropion as it has been associated with elevated blood pressure.

Is Wellbutrin the same as bupropion?

Wellbutrin, is one of the branded names for the generic medication bupropion. As said above, it is a prescription medication commonly used to treat conditions such as depression and seasonal affective disorder.

Here we look at Wellbutrin in the context of the UK, providing insights on how to access this medication, including international pharmacy services. If you’re seeking information on how to get Wellbutrin in the UK, you’re not alone. Read on to learn some more.

Understanding Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin, is just one brand name of bupropion. It is used to manage depression, including Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and, in some cases, help with smoking cessation. The active ingredient, bupropion, works by affecting the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine.

Accessing Wellbutrin in the UK

In the UK, Wellbutrin is available by prescription only. To obtain this medication, you should follow these steps:

– Consult your GP: If you believe Wellbutrin may be suitable for your needs, the first step is to consult a GP They will assess your condition and medical history to determine if Wellbutrin is the right choice for you. Bear in mind that Wellbutrin is a less common option in the UK, so do your homework and go along armed with why you feel it is right for you.

– Get a Prescription: If your doctor deems Wellbutrin appropriate, they will write a prescription for you. This prescription contains specific details, including the medication’s name, dosage, and instructions for use.

– Get your medication: Once you have your prescription, you can take it to your local pharmacy. Pharmacists will dispense the medication to you in accordance with the prescription.

Wellbutrin is typically available in various forms, including extended-release tablets, which should be taken as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness.

International Pharmacy deliver Wellbutrin in the UK

If you encounter challenges in obtaining Wellbutrin through the traditional UK healthcare route or if you are seeking cost-effective options, International Pharmacy can help. Choose us for your Wellbutrin treatment in the UK to benefit from:

– Reputability:  We are known for our reliability, quality, and adherence to safety standards. We have a huge amount of experience shipping medications to the UK.

– Credentials and legality: Not all international pharmacies are safe. We operate legally and comply with relevant regulations. Specifically, if you choose a branded medication like Wellbutrin, we source it directly from reputable manufacturers. This means you get exactly what you expect in your medication.

– Easy ordering: It’s easy to order with us. We have a secure online platform. Simply enter the details for ordering Wellbutrin to the UK and we do the rest.

– Shipping and delivery: International Pharmacy will arrange for the delivery of your medication to the UK. Shipping times and costs can vary, so be sure to review these details when placing your order.

– Safety and quality assurance: We adhere to stringent safety and quality standards. Any medication you buy from us is sourced from reputable manufacturers.

We understand that Wellbutrin is a valuable medication for individuals in the UK seeking relief from depression and other related conditions. For many, it is what enables them to stop smoking when nothing else has worked. While accessing it typically requires a prescription from a UK healthcare provider and purchase through local pharmacies, we offer an alternative route for those looking for more convenient or cost-effective options.

When buying from an international pharmacy, many people feel more confident choosing a reputable brand. Wellbutrin is one of a few branded types of bupropion we supply.

Why is Wellbutrin not available in the UK on the NHS?

It’s not actually quite that clear cut. There have been supply issues for various reasons, but we have no problems with supply and can deliver Wellbutrin to your UK address. Additionally, when you access smoking cessation help on the NHS, other options are typically tried first. You may have tried these options already, but unless your GP has a record of them, you may need to go through various additional steps before they will prescribe medication.

Choosing the right antidepressant for you

Bupropion in the UK is only available on prescription. It is not usually the first antidepressant chosen for depression, including major depressive disorder (MDD). However, choosing the right antidepressant for you isn’t always an easy process and there are many factors to consider. Furthermore, you may be looking to take bupropion to stop smoking, rather than to manage depression.

It’s important that you discuss your condition and your reasons for wanting to take bupropion with your doctor, so that the best and safest treatment can be decided upon.

Getting bupropion in the UK

At International Pharmacy, we can fill your UK prescription for bupropion. We supply branded

bupropion such as Wellbrutin and Zyban, as well as reputably sourced and more affordable non-branded bupropion. We ship to the UK as well as elsewhere internationally and offer a fast and cost-effective service.

The information provided here is for information only and does not constitute medical advice. Bupropion is an antidepressant with significant risks which should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. Please contact your own GP for personal advice.