Bupropion is a medication that is primarily used as an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid. It is sold under various brand names, including Wellbutrin and Zyban.
As an antidepressant, bupropion is used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are involved in regulating mood.
As a smoking cessation aid, bupropion is used to help people quit smoking by reducing the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with nicotine addiction.
Bupropion may also be used off-label for other conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder. However, its efficacy for these conditions may vary and is not well-established. It is important to only take bupropion as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to follow their instructions carefully.