Bupropion

Bupropion is an anti-depressant drug that is prescribed to patients suffering from chronic depression. This drug is also used to help people who want to quit smoking curb the urge to smoke. It alters the brain chemistry to eliminate both feelings of depression and the desire to smoke.

Warnings/Side Effects

Anti-depressant drugs such as Bupropion have been shown to increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, feelings and behavior in young people. Although older patients may also suffer from suicidal ideation while on this drug, people younger than 24 are particularly susceptible to suicidal thoughts and self-harming behavior while on this drug.

Since Bupropion alters brain chemistry, there is a risk of physical dependence when taking this drug. Patients who wish to stop taking it should gradually taper off the drug so that they minimize withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, mood swings and seizures.