Wellbutrin – what does it actually do for you?

Wellbutrin, or bupropion, is a drug that’s main purpose is to treat depression. It can however also be used to help stop smoking.

In contrast to stimulant medication (like amphetamine or methylphenidate), which normally starts working within a few hours, Wellbutrin (like any other antidepressants) can take approximately 3 to 7 days before you notice the benefits. In addition, it can take 4 to 6 weeks to reach the full effect.

Because of this, if you are admitted into a psychiatric hospital or clinic, and diagnosed with depression or any other mental illness where Wellbutrin is required, they will normally keep you in the facility anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks to ensure the medication has taken effect before they release you.

This drug is also more than just a good medication to treat some cases of bipolar depression; clinical studies have shown that as an antidepressant, Wellbutrin can be as effective as Zoloft, Prozac and Paxil.

Wellbutrin is normally preferred over a Selective Serotonin Inhibitor (SSRI) such as Zoloft or Prozac, as it doesn’t cause sexual dysfunctions or weight gain.

Wellbutrin has also been linked to help some cases of anxiety, but while it can cause anxiety in some people, it is an effective treatment for anxiety.

SO WHAT DOES WELLBUTRIN DO TO YOUR BRAIN?

It’s a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), in other words it also boosts the levels of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, and dopamine.

Noradrenaline and adrenaline are catecholamines that play major roles in the regulation of the “inner world” of the body by the brain. Noradrenaline is the main neurotransmitter of the sympathetic nervous system. In the brain, it increases arousal and alertness, promotes vigilance and enhances formation and retrieval of memories, and focuses on attention. It also increases restlessness and anxiety.

Dopamine is also an important neurotransmitter, which is the body’s chemical messengers responsible for facilitating communications between the nerve cells in the nervous system, which includes the brain, where dopamine functions. Dopamine is most commonly associated with the brain’s pleasure and reward system.

So for an individual suffering with depression or bipolar mood disorder, you can understand why a drug like Wellbutrin is important to the individual, as it helps replace these specific chemicals that may be lacking in the individuals brain.

I am not shy to say that I am chronically on Wellbutrin, and I can see a big difference in myself compared to 5 months ago. I am more happier these days and am able to control my bipolar mood disorder.

So if you are placed on Wellbutrin or any other antidepressant, don’t be ashamed by this; just know that you are on your path to recovery, and stuff anyone else who thinks differently, because it’s about getting yourself back to the “right frame of mind”.

So cheers to you all, as I swallow my Wellbutrin for the day!