Alternatives to Bupropion SR for Depression
Depression, even in its most severe form, is highly treatable. As with many illnesses, getting
depression treatment early is more effective and reduces the chance of recurrence.
The most common forms of treatment for depression are medication (
antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In some cases of severe depression, healthcare providers may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Some people may also try complementary or alternative treatments for depression
(see Natural Remedies for Depression).
For most people,
bupropion SR is quite effective at treating depression. It is also generally well tolerated. However, side effects may occur or the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative to bupropion SR. Some examples of substitute depression medications include:
Alternatives to Bupropion SR for Smoking Cessation
For many people, bupropion SR is effective at helping with smoking cessation. It is also generally well tolerated. However, as noted, bothersome side effects may occur or the medicine may not produce the expected results. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative. Some examples of substitute medications include:
- Nicotine products, including patches, inhalers, gum, or lozenges
- Varenicline (Chantix®), a new non-nicotine medication for smoking cessation.
Various forms of counseling are also used to help people stop smoking. In fact, all of the studies of Zyban also included counseling for smoking cessation.
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