Bupropion hydrochloride (Hcl) extended-release (XL) is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) used to treat depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and various other off-label uses.

As an NDRI, bupropion Hcl may be used in place of the more-commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, or it may be used in addition to SSRIs to further enhance effectiveness or to offset certain SSRI side effects.

Types of Bupropion Hcl

Bupropion Hcl is more commonly known by the brand names Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, and the smoking-cessation aid Zyban. It may be marketed under various other brand names in some regions, and it's also possible to buy bupropion Hcl XL as a generic.

It's important to note that the different formulations of bupropion Hcl are not interchangeable:

• Bupropion Hcl immediate-release is usually taken 1 to 3 times per day. Effects last around 6 hours, and doses should be taken at least 6 hours apart.
• Bupropion Hcl SR (sustained-release) is usually taken 2 times per day. Effects last around 12 hours and doses should be taken at least 8 hours apart.
• Bupropion Hcl XL (extended release) is usually taken once per day. Effects last around 24 hours and doses should be taken 24 hours apart.

The smoking cessation aid Zyban is the same as bupropion SR; it is taken twice-daily with at least 8 hours between doses.

Advantages of Bupropion Hcl XL

There are a number of reasons patients might prefer to buy bupropion Hcl XL over other antidepressants, and over other forms of bupropion Hcl:

• Patients are much less likely to experience sexual side effects when taking bupropion Hcl compared to SSRIs;
• Bupropion Hcl does not promote weight gain like SSRIs;
• It is unlikely patients will become addicted to bupropion Hcl;
• Bupropion Hcl is moderately more effective than SSRIs at alleviating symptoms of anxiety and fatigue resulting from depression;
• Bupropion Hcl XL only needs to be taken once per day, compared to 2 or more times with SR or immediate-release tablets;
• Levels of the medication in the body are more consistent with bupropion Hcl XL compared to SR or immediate-release versions;
• Most patients experience fewer and milder side effects with bupropion Hcl XL compared to other bupropion formulations and SSRIs.

A doctor may recommend a particular bupropion Hcl formulation based on individual considerations, but patient preference also very often plays a role in choosing to buy bupropion Hcl XL, SR, or immediate-release. While the XL version is typically more convenient and produces fewer side effects, there are exceptions; some people find the SR version produces fewer side effects, or prefer the greater control over dosage with shorter-acting immediate release tablets. As long as the medication is used within guidelines there is no reason not to explore other bupropion Hcl options if one is not producing satisfying results.

Warnings & Side Effects

The vast majority of side effects associated with bupropion Hcl XL are mild and tend to stop occurring after several weeks of treatment:

• Headache
• Stomach upset
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Mild euphoria
• Mild weight loss

Very rare side effects which require emergency medical attention include:

• Chest pain
• Seizures
• Fainting
• Heartbeat changes
• Difficulty breathing

In most (but not all) cases serious adverse effects result from misuse of the medications; that is, taking too much. Never exceed the recommended dose, and never use bupropion Hcl with other medications unless approved by a doctor.

Patients with a history of seizures, liver, kidney, or heart disease, and high blood pressure should not buy bupropion Hcl XL without being physically seen by a doctor first, as adjusted dosage may be needed for safe use.

The Medications you Need at Prices you can Afford

Kiwi Drug is committed to providing our clients with high-quality, authentic medications at affordable prices. We are a real pharmacy subject to the same regulatory oversight as our brick & mortar counterparts--our online storefront allows us to cut costs without cutting quality.

Clients who do not have a prescription to buy bupropion Hcl XL may be issued one by our online doctor. You'll simply need to answer a few additional questions during checkout.