Wellbutrin SR: What It Does, Side Effects, Dose & Safe Buying Tips

Want an antidepressant that often boosts energy and rarely causes sexual side effects? That’s why many doctors choose Wellbutrin SR (bupropion SR). It works differently from SSRIs — it targets norepinephrine and dopamine — and that difference shapes how it feels and what to watch for.

Here’s the practical stuff you need to know right away: Wellbutrin SR treats major depression and can help with smoking cessation. It often helps people feel more motivated and less tired. But it can raise the risk of seizures at high doses and isn’t a fit for everyone.

How it’s usually taken and key safety tips

Wellbutrin SR is a sustained-release form. A common starting dose is 150 mg once daily, then often 150 mg twice daily (300 mg total). Some people may reach up to 400 mg per day in divided doses under close doctor supervision. Never exceed your doctor’s instructions — seizure risk rises with higher doses, especially over 400 mg/day for SR formulations.

Don’t take Wellbutrin SR if you have a history of seizures, anorexia or bulimia, recent head injury, or if you’re withdrawing from heavy alcohol or sedatives. Tell your doctor about other medicines you take — some drugs raise seizure risk or change how bupropion is processed by your liver.

Side effects and what to watch for

Common side effects are dry mouth, trouble sleeping, headache, and mild nausea. Many people notice more energy or better focus within 1–2 weeks, but mood improvements usually take longer. If you feel jittery, have a fast heartbeat, or notice severe mood swings, call your provider.

Serious but rare risks include seizures and allergic reactions. If you have sudden confusion, fainting, or a seizure, get emergency care. Monitor changes in mood or suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults and teenagers — report those to your clinician right away.

Mixing alcohol with Wellbutrin SR can increase seizure risk. Avoid binge drinking and tell your doctor about any recent heavy drinking or withdrawal symptoms.

Want to switch or stop? Don’t quit abruptly without medical advice. Your provider will guide a safe taper or suggest alternatives that may suit you better.

Looking to buy Wellbutrin SR online? Always use a licensed pharmacy that asks for a valid prescription and lists a real address and pharmacist contact. Watch out for sites that sell prescription meds without asking for a prescription or that offer suspiciously low prices. Check for secure checkout (HTTPS), read independent reviews, and prefer pharmacies with verifiable accreditation.

If you’re unsure whether Wellbutrin SR fits your needs, ask your doctor about other antidepressant options or combination strategies. For more on related meds, our site covers other antidepressants and safe online pharmacy tips — check our article on buying Anafranil for a good example of what to look for when buying psychiatric meds online.

Got questions about dosing or side effects? Bring a list of your medications and health history to your next visit — that makes the safest plan fast and easy.