Wellbutrin and Pregnancy
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Wellbutrin is a brand of bupropion, which is also marketed as Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Aplenzin and Zyban. Available by prescription only, Wellbutrin is classified a an aminoketone antidepressant.
Wellbutrin is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), chemically different from other antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs. Wellbutrin seems to work by inhibiting the uptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, and it also blocks the effects of nicotine. Wellbutrin is used to treat major depressive disorder (depression) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Bupropion is also used to help with smoking cessation. It is sometimes used to treat depression in patients with bipolar disorder (otherwise known as manic depressive disorder) and to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).[1] [2]
Wellbutrin is a Pregnancy Category C medication. Some animal studies suggest that there is a small risk when using Wellbutrin during pregnancy. Sufficient human studies have not been performed.[2] Some of the more common side effects of Wellbutrin include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, uncontrollable shaking of a body parts, weight loss, and constipation. More serious side effects may include seizures, confusion, hallucinations, rash or blisters, swelling, and chest pain or rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat. These and other side effects may require medical attention.[1]
 Wellbutrin XL | |
| Brand name for | Bupropion |
|---|---|
| Used for | Depression (MDD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), smoking cessation[2] |
| Pregnancy risk factor | Category C |
| Label instructions | Before starting Wellbutrin, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding[2] |
| Warnings | It is not known if Wellbutrin will harm the unborn baby[2] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Wellbutrin Effects on Pregnant Women
Experts believe that it is important to treat depression throughout pregnancy. While prevailing thought used to be that pregnant women were "immune" to depression due to hormonal changes, this is no longer believed to be true. In fact, pregnancy may exacerbate depression.
When an expectant mother is depressed, both she and her unborn child may be at risk. This is because depressed people are more likely not to take proper care of themselves, or seek valuable prenatal treatment. Depression can lead to poor diet, as well as smoking and drinking, wich can result in low birth weight or other problems for the infant.
Therefore, antidepressants like Wellbutrin may be recommended for pregnant women in some cases. The risk to infants is thought to be minimal for this drug. Wellbutrin has an additional advantage for moms-to-be who want to quit smoking, as it can help curb cravings.[3]
Wellbutrin and Pregnancy Category C
Wellbutrin has been listed by the FDA as a Pregnancy Category C medication. Some animal studies suggest that Wellbutrin may sometimes be harmful when taken during pregnancy. One human study which looked specifically for congenital malformations in infants exposed to Wellbutrin during the first trimester found no congenital malformations. This study has not been verified. Doctors typically only prescribe Wellbutrin to pregnant patients if the benefits outweigh the risks to the infant.[2] Since the available studies seem to indicate less potential risks than other antidepressants, doctors sometimes consider Wellbutrin for pregnant patients who require an antidepressant.[3]
Wellbutrin and Breastfeeding
The effects of Wellbutrin on a nursing infant are not known, but it is known that Wellbutrin, like other antidepressants, is found in the breast milk. GlaxoSmithKline, Wellbutrin's manufacturer, recommends that doctors and patients consider discontinuing the use of Wellbutrin or discontinuing nursing to avoid possible risk to the infant.[2]
Wellbutrin XL Coupons
Also See: Wellbutrin XL Side Effects, Wellbutrin XL Free Samples, Wellbutrin XL Coupons, Effexor and Pregnancy, Zoloft and Pregnancy, Paxil and Pregnancy, Prozac and Pregnancy, Prozac Side Effects, Lexapro Side Effects, Effexor XR Coupons, Lexapro Coupons, Trazodone and Pregnancy
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