Bupropion
(Brand names: Wellbutrin, Budeprion, Buproban, Zyban)
Pros Compared
to other approaches to help people stop smoking, this medicine prevents
weight gain. Studies have shown that Wellbutrin can even produce a extra weight
loss of somewhere between 2.2% to 5.1%. It is generally well tolerated. If you also need an
antidepressant or treatment to help stop smoking, this drug may help in
these areas also. Cons Side effects include an increased risk for
seizures.
An inability to fall asleep
(insomnia)
and
anxiety
can also occur. There are only small studies on weight loss using
bupropion. This makes it more difficult to make recommendations about
its use as a weight loss drug. Other Comments In 2 of the 3 studies done on this medicine, a
diet
was given along with the medicine, and
exercise
was part of one study. Diet and exercise are the mainstays of weight loss and should be used with weight loss drugs.
Return to Home Page or
Weight Loss Drugs.
It is important you discuss any weight loss or exercise plan with your doctor. Only you and your physician can decide what is best for you. Some people have certain conditions that prevent them from doing all exercises, and goal body weights may be different for different people. You need to discuss all these things with your physician before starting any weight loss or exercise program. In addition, the dosage of any medicine may be different if it is used for weight loss and not its FDA approved indication. You should also discuss this with your doctor.
This
article was written by
John
Vickery, MD.
References
Ann Intern Med 2005;142:525-531
“Drug therapy of Obesity” UpToDate version 15.3
Treatment Guidelines from The Medical Letter 2003;1:101
Treatment
Guidelines from the Medical Letter 2008;6:23-28
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