Wellbutrin, whose generic name is bupropion, is primarily used as an antidepressant medication. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a type of depression that occurs seasonally, typically in fall or winter
. In addition to treating depression, bupropion is also used to support smoking cessation, although the specific brand Zyban (which contains bupropion) is more commonly associated with this use rather than Wellbutrin itself
. Bupropion works by regulating brain chemicals, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine, which helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression
. Summary of Wellbutrin uses:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Support for quitting smoking (primarily via Zyban brand)
It is not typically used for bipolar disorder or other conditions unless prescribed off-label by a healthcare provider
. Therefore, Wellbutrin is mainly prescribed to treat depression and seasonal depression, and it may also help with smoking cessation under certain formulations.
