Many studies have looked at
bupropion SR for treating
depression or for helping with smoking cessation.
Bupropion SR for Depression
Studies of
Wellbutrin (the short-acting version of bupropion SR) have shown that Wellbutrin is effective for
depression treatment. While it is assumed that bupropion SR is equally effective for depression, these same studies have not been performed with bupropion SR.
Bupropion SR for Smoking Cessation
Several studies have shown that bupropion SR can help people stop smoking. In one study, up to 36 percent of people taking bupropion SR were able to stop smoking for at least a month, compared to only 17 percent of those not taking bupropion SR. In another study, combining bupropion SR with nicotine patches was even more effective: up to 58 percent of people using bupropion SR along with nicotine patches were able to quit smoking for at least one month (compared to 23 percent of those not taking either medication).
Studies have shown that bupropion SR also helps to reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, frustration, anger,
anxiety, trouble concentrating, restlessness, and depression. Studies have also shown that people who continue to take bupropion SR after they stop smoking are less likely to start smoking again.
When and How to Take Bupropion SR
Some general considerations for when and how to take bupropion SR include:
- Bupropion SR comes in tablet form. Bupropion SR is taken by mouth, usually twice a day.
- Be sure to swallow bupropion SR tablets whole. The tablets should not be cut, crushed, broken, or chewed.
- It does not matter if you take bupropion SR with or without food. If bupropion SR bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Bupropion SR should be taken at the same times each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood.
- For bupropion SR to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Bupropion SR will not work if you stop taking it.
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