What is Wellbutrin XL used for. How does Wellbutrin XL work for depression. What are the potential side effects of Wellbutrin XL. Who should not take Wellbutrin XL. How to monitor your mental health while taking Wellbutrin XL. What are the alternatives to Wellbutrin XL for depression treatment. How to safely discontinue Wellbutrin XL under medical supervision.

Understanding Wellbutrin XL: Uses and Mechanism of Action

Wellbutrin XL, containing the active ingredient bupropion hydrochloride, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It’s also approved for the prevention of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during autumn and winter months.

How does Wellbutrin XL work? Unlike many other antidepressants that focus on serotonin, Wellbutrin XL is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). This means it works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation, motivation, and pleasure.

Key Benefits of Wellbutrin XL

• Effective treatment for major depressive disorder
• Helps prevent seasonal affective disorder
• May have fewer sexual side effects compared to some other antidepressants
• Can be used as a smoking cessation aid (under a different brand name, Zyban)

Important Safety Information: Recognizing Potential Risks

While Wellbutrin XL can be an effective treatment for depression, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks and side effects. The medication carries a black box warning, the most serious type of warning issued by the FDA, regarding changes in thinking and behavior, depression, and suicidal thoughts or actions.

Is Wellbutrin XL safe for everyone? No, it’s not suitable for all patients. The safety and efficacy of Wellbutrin XL have not been evaluated in patients under 18 years of age. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications may be at higher risk for adverse effects.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Patients and their caregivers should be vigilant for any sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings, especially within the first few months of treatment or after a dosage change. Some critical symptoms to be aware of include:

• Suicidal thoughts or actions
• New or worsening depression or anxiety
• Agitation or restlessness
• Panic attacks
• Insomnia
• Aggressive behavior or irritability
• Mania (extreme increase in activity and talking)
• Any other unusual changes in behavior or mood

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms while taking Wellbutrin XL, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Potential Side Effects: What Patients Should Know

Like all medications, Wellbutrin XL can cause side effects. While not everyone experiences them, it’s important to be aware of potential adverse reactions.

What are the most common side effects of Wellbutrin XL? Some patients may experience:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Headache
• Agitation
• Dizziness
• Insomnia or sleep disturbances
• Weight loss

Are there any severe side effects to be concerned about? Yes, although rare, some patients may experience more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention:

Seizures

Wellbutrin XL can lower the seizure threshold, especially in people with certain medical conditions or those taking other medications that increase seizure risk. If you experience a seizure while taking Wellbutrin XL, stop taking the medication and seek medical help immediately.

High Blood Pressure

Some individuals may develop hypertension while taking Wellbutrin XL. Regular blood pressure monitoring is recommended, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage.

Manic Episodes

In some cases, Wellbutrin XL can trigger manic episodes, particularly in individuals with bipolar disorder. Symptoms of mania include greatly increased energy, severe trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, reckless behavior, and unusually grand ideas.

Visual Problems

Wellbutrin XL may increase the risk of angle-closure glaucoma in susceptible individuals. Symptoms can include eye pain, changes in vision, and swelling or redness around the eye. An eye examination before starting treatment is recommended for those at risk.

Drug Interactions: Ensuring Safe Use of Wellbutrin XL

Wellbutrin XL can interact with various medications and substances, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking before starting Wellbutrin XL.

Which medications should not be taken with Wellbutrin XL? Some notable interactions include:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Other medications containing bupropion
• Certain antipsychotics
• Some antidepressants
• Certain anti-arrhythmic drugs
• Alcohol (can increase the risk of seizures)

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting any new medication while taking Wellbutrin XL.

Special Populations: Considerations for Specific Groups

Certain groups of people may require special consideration when it comes to using Wellbutrin XL. These include:

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

The safety of Wellbutrin XL during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.

Elderly Patients

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Wellbutrin XL and may require dose adjustments. They may also be at higher risk for certain side effects, such as confusion or falls.

Patients with Liver or Kidney Impairment

Individuals with liver or kidney problems may require dose adjustments or more careful monitoring while taking Wellbutrin XL.

Patients with a History of Eating Disorders

Wellbutrin XL may not be suitable for individuals with a current or past eating disorder, as it can increase the risk of seizures in this population.

Proper Use and Dosage: Maximizing Treatment Efficacy

To ensure the best possible outcomes and minimize the risk of side effects, it’s crucial to take Wellbutrin XL exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

How should Wellbutrin XL be taken? The medication is typically taken once daily in the morning, with or without food. It’s important not to crush, chew, or split the tablet, as this can affect the extended-release properties of the medication and potentially increase the risk of side effects.

What is the typical dosage for Wellbutrin XL? The usual starting dose for major depressive disorder is 150 mg once daily, which may be increased to 300 mg once daily after 3 days. For seasonal affective disorder, treatment typically begins in the autumn and continues through the winter, stopping in early spring.

Tips for Taking Wellbutrin XL

• Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels
• If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Be patient – it may take several weeks to experience the full benefits of the medication
• Do not stop taking Wellbutrin XL abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider

Monitoring and Follow-up: Ensuring Safe and Effective Treatment

Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential components of treatment with Wellbutrin XL. Your healthcare provider will likely schedule periodic check-ups to assess your progress and monitor for any potential side effects.

What should be monitored during Wellbutrin XL treatment? Key aspects of monitoring include:

• Mental health status, including mood changes and any signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Blood pressure
• Weight
• Sleep patterns
• Any new or worsening side effects

How often should follow-up appointments be scheduled? Initially, your healthcare provider may want to see you more frequently, perhaps every 1-2 weeks. As your condition stabilizes, these visits may become less frequent, perhaps monthly or quarterly.

Self-monitoring Tips

In addition to regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, self-monitoring can play a crucial role in ensuring safe and effective treatment. Consider keeping a mood journal to track your symptoms, side effects, and overall well-being. This information can be valuable during your follow-up appointments.

Alternatives to Wellbutrin XL: Exploring Other Treatment Options

While Wellbutrin XL can be an effective treatment for depression and seasonal affective disorder, it’s not the only option available. Depending on individual factors such as medical history, symptoms, and personal preferences, other treatments may be more suitable.

What are some alternatives to Wellbutrin XL for depression treatment? Some options include:

Other Antidepressant Medications

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

Non-medication Treatments

• Psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy)
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
• Light therapy (particularly for seasonal affective disorder)

Lifestyle Modifications

• Regular exercise
• Healthy diet
• Stress reduction techniques (such as meditation or yoga)
• Improving sleep habits

It’s important to discuss all treatment options with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach for your individual situation.

Long-term Use and Discontinuation: Planning for the Future

For many individuals with depression, long-term treatment may be necessary to maintain symptom relief and prevent relapse. However, the duration of treatment can vary significantly from person to person.

How long should Wellbutrin XL be taken? The length of treatment depends on various factors, including the severity of depression, response to treatment, and individual risk factors. Some people may need to take the medication for several months, while others may require long-term or even lifelong treatment.

Discontinuing Wellbutrin XL

If you and your healthcare provider decide to discontinue Wellbutrin XL, it’s crucial to do so gradually and under medical supervision. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to discontinuation symptoms and increase the risk of relapse.

What are potential discontinuation symptoms? Some individuals may experience:

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Headaches

Your healthcare provider will typically recommend a gradual tapering of the dose over several weeks or months to minimize these effects.

Planning for the Future

As you continue treatment with Wellbutrin XL, it’s important to regularly reassess your treatment plan with your healthcare provider. This may involve discussing any changes in your symptoms, side effects, or life circumstances that could impact your treatment.

Additionally, developing a relapse prevention plan can be beneficial. This might include identifying early warning signs of depression, establishing coping strategies, and knowing when to seek professional help.

Patient Education and Support: Empowering Individuals for Better Outcomes

Education and support play crucial roles in the successful management of depression and the safe use of medications like Wellbutrin XL. Understanding your condition, treatment options, and potential risks can help you make informed decisions and actively participate in your care.

How can patients educate themselves about Wellbutrin XL and depression? Some valuable resources include:

• Reputable mental health organizations (such as NAMI or Mental Health America)
• Patient education materials provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist
• Support groups for individuals with depression
• Trusted online resources and medical websites

The Importance of Open Communication

Maintaining open and honest communication with your healthcare provider is essential. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns about your treatment. Some important topics to discuss include:

• Your symptoms and how they’re changing over time
• Any side effects you’re experiencing
• Concerns about medication interactions
• Your overall treatment goals
• Any challenges you’re facing in adhering to your treatment plan

Building a Support Network

In addition to professional support, having a strong personal support network can be invaluable in managing depression. This might include family members, friends, support groups, or mental health peers who can offer understanding, encouragement, and practical assistance when needed.

Remember, treatment for depression is often most effective when it combines medication like Wellbutrin XL with other forms of support and therapy. By actively engaging in your treatment and building a comprehensive care plan, you can maximize your chances of achieving and maintaining good mental health.

WELLBUTRIN XL® for HCP’s, Clinical Experience in MDD & SAD

INDICATION

WELLBUTRIN XL^® (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with a certain type of depression called major depressive disorder, and for the prevention of autumn-winter seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: CHANGES IN THINKING AND BEHAVIOR, DEPRESSION, AND SUICIDAL THOUGHTS OR ACTIONS

Suicidal Thoughts or Actions and Antidepressant Drugs

Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, or young adults within the first few months of treatment. Depression or other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts and actions. People who have (or have a family history of) bipolar illness or suicidal thoughts or actions may have a particularly high risk. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Call your healthcare provider right away if symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, impulsivity, trouble sleeping, aggressive behavior or suicidal thoughts are new, worse or worry you. WELLBUTRIN XL has not been evaluated for use in patients under the age of 18.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you or your family member has any of the following symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you:

• thoughts about suicide or dying
• attempts to commit suicide
• new or worse depression
• new or worse anxiety
• feeling very agitated or restless
• panic attacks
• trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• new or worse irritability
• acting aggressive, being angry, or violent
• acting on dangerous impulses
• an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania)
• other unusual changes in behavior or mood

Although WELLBUTRIN XL is not a treatment for quitting smoking, it contains the same active ingredient (bupropion) as ZYBAN, which is used to help patients quit smoking.

Some people have had serious side effects while taking bupropion to help them quit smoking, including:

New or worse mental health problems, such as changes in behavior or thinking, aggression, hostility, agitation, depression, or suicidal thoughts or actions. Some people had these symptoms when they began taking bupropion, and others developed them after several weeks of treatment, or after stopping bupropion. These symptoms happened more often in people who had a history of mental health problems before taking bupropion than in people without a history of mental health problems.

Stop taking WELLBUTRIN XL and call your healthcare provider right away if you, your family, or caregiver notice any of these symptoms. Work with your healthcare provider to decide whether you should continue to take WELLBUTRIN XL. In many people, these symptoms went away after stopping WELLBUTRIN XL, but in some people, symptoms continued after stopping WELLBUTRIN XL. It is important for you to follow-up with your healthcare provider until your symptoms go away.

Before taking WELLBUTRIN XL, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had depression or other mental health problems. You should also tell your healthcare provider about any symptoms you had during other times you tried to quit smoking, with or without bupropion.

What Other Important Information Should I Know About WELLBUTRIN XL?

• Seizures: There is a chance of having a seizure (convulsion, fit) with WELLBUTRIN XL, especially in people with certain medical problems or who take certain medicines. Do not take any other medicines while you are taking WELLBUTRIN XL unless your healthcare provider has said it is okay to take them. If you have a seizure while taking WELLBUTRIN XL, stop taking the tablets and call your healthcare provider right away.
• High blood pressure (hypertension): Some people get high blood pressure that can be severe while taking WELLBUTRIN XL.
• Manic episodes: Some people may have periods of mania while taking WELLBUTRIN XL. If you have any of the following symptoms of mania, call your healthcare provider:
  • greatly increased energy
  • severe trouble sleeping
  • racing thoughts
  • reckless behavior
  • unusually grand ideas
  • excessive happiness or irritability
  • talking more or faster than usual
• Unusual thoughts or behaviors: Some patients may have unusual thoughts or behaviors while taking WELLBUTRIN XL, including delusions (e.g., believe you are someone else), hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there), paranoia (feeling that people are against you), or feeling confused. If this happens to you, call your healthcare provider.
• Visual problems: Some people are at risk of glaucoma which can present as: eye pain, changes in vision, or swelling and redness around the eye if they take WELLBUTRIN XL. You should see an eye doctor to determine whether you are at risk prior to starting therapy.
• Severe allergic reactions: Some patients have severe allergic reactions to WELLBUTRIN XL. Stop taking WELLBUTRIN XL and call your healthcare provider right away if you get a rash, itching, hives, fever, swollen lymph glands, painful sores in the mouth or around the eyes, swelling of the lips or tongue, chest pain, or have trouble breathing. These could be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Do not take WELLBUTRIN XL if you:

• have or had a seizure disorder or epilepsy
• have or had an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• are taking any other medicines that contain bupropion, including WELLBUTRIN or WELLBUTRIN SR, APLENZIN^®, ZYBAN, or FORFIVO XL. Bupropion is the same active ingredient that is in WELLBUTRIN XL
• drink a lot of alcohol and abruptly stop drinking, or use medicines called sedatives (these make you sleepy), benzodiazepines, or anti-seizure medicines, and you stop using them all of a sudden
• take a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure if you take an MAOI, including the antibiotic linezolid
  • do not take an MAOI within 2 weeks of stopping WELLBUTRIN XL unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider
  • do not start WELLBUTRIN XL if you stopped taking an MAOI in the last 2 weeks unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider
• are allergic to the active ingredient in WELLBUTRIN XL, bupropion, or to any of the inactive ingredients

Although WELLBUTRIN XL is not a treatment for quitting smoking, it contains the same active ingredient (bupropion) as ZYBAN, which is used to help patients quit smoking. Before taking WELLBUTRIN XL, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had depression, suicidal thoughts or actions, or other mental health problems or any symptoms you had during other times you tried to quit smoking with or without bupropion. Also, tell your healthcare provider about your other medical conditions, including if you:

• have liver problems, especially cirrhosis of the liver
• have kidney problems
• have, or have had, an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• have had a head injury
• have had a seizure (convulsion, fit)
• have a tumor in your nervous system (brain or spine)
• have had a heart attack, heart problems, or high blood pressure
• are a diabetic taking insulin or other medicines to control your blood sugar
• drink alcohol
• abuse prescription medicines or street drugs
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risk to your unborn baby if you take WELLBUTRIN XL during pregnancy, and about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-844-405-6185
• are breastfeeding. WELLBUTRIN XL passes into your milk in small amounts

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Many medicines increase your chances of having seizures or cause other serious side effects if you take them while you are using WELLBUTRIN XL.

The most common side effects of WELLBUTRIN XL include: trouble sleeping, stuffy nose, dry mouth, dizziness, feeling anxious, nausea, constipation, and joint aches.

Click here to read the Medication Guide carefully before you start using WELLBUTRIN XL. If you have any questions about WELLBUTRIN XL, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Click here for full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide and Boxed Warning regarding suicidal thoughts and actions.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also contact Bausch Health Customer Service at 1-800-321-4576.

WELLBUTRIN XL®, HCP Information on Patient Savings Program

INDICATION

WELLBUTRIN XL^® (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with a certain type of depression called major depressive disorder, and for the prevention of autumn-winter seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: CHANGES IN THINKING AND BEHAVIOR, DEPRESSION, AND SUICIDAL THOUGHTS OR ACTIONS

Suicidal Thoughts or Actions and Antidepressant Drugs

Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, or young adults within the first few months of treatment. Depression or other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts and actions. People who have (or have a family history of) bipolar illness or suicidal thoughts or actions may have a particularly high risk. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Call your healthcare provider right away if symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, impulsivity, trouble sleeping, aggressive behavior or suicidal thoughts are new, worse or worry you. WELLBUTRIN XL has not been evaluated for use in patients under the age of 18.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you or your family member has any of the following symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you:

• thoughts about suicide or dying
• attempts to commit suicide
• new or worse depression
• new or worse anxiety
• feeling very agitated or restless
• panic attacks
• trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• new or worse irritability
• acting aggressive, being angry, or violent
• acting on dangerous impulses
• an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania)
• other unusual changes in behavior or mood

Although WELLBUTRIN XL is not a treatment for quitting smoking, it contains the same active ingredient (bupropion) as ZYBAN, which is used to help patients quit smoking.

Some people have had serious side effects while taking bupropion to help them quit smoking, including:

New or worse mental health problems, such as changes in behavior or thinking, aggression, hostility, agitation, depression, or suicidal thoughts or actions. Some people had these symptoms when they began taking bupropion, and others developed them after several weeks of treatment, or after stopping bupropion. These symptoms happened more often in people who had a history of mental health problems before taking bupropion than in people without a history of mental health problems.

Stop taking WELLBUTRIN XL and call your healthcare provider right away if you, your family, or caregiver notice any of these symptoms. Work with your healthcare provider to decide whether you should continue to take WELLBUTRIN XL. In many people, these symptoms went away after stopping WELLBUTRIN XL, but in some people, symptoms continued after stopping WELLBUTRIN XL. It is important for you to follow-up with your healthcare provider until your symptoms go away.

Before taking WELLBUTRIN XL, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had depression or other mental health problems. You should also tell your healthcare provider about any symptoms you had during other times you tried to quit smoking, with or without bupropion.

What Other Important Information Should I Know About WELLBUTRIN XL?

• Seizures: There is a chance of having a seizure (convulsion, fit) with WELLBUTRIN XL, especially in people with certain medical problems or who take certain medicines. Do not take any other medicines while you are taking WELLBUTRIN XL unless your healthcare provider has said it is okay to take them. If you have a seizure while taking WELLBUTRIN XL, stop taking the tablets and call your healthcare provider right away.
• High blood pressure (hypertension): Some people get high blood pressure that can be severe while taking WELLBUTRIN XL.
• Manic episodes: Some people may have periods of mania while taking WELLBUTRIN XL. If you have any of the following symptoms of mania, call your healthcare provider:
  • greatly increased energy
  • severe trouble sleeping
  • racing thoughts
  • reckless behavior
  • unusually grand ideas
  • excessive happiness or irritability
  • talking more or faster than usual
• Unusual thoughts or behaviors: Some patients may have unusual thoughts or behaviors while taking WELLBUTRIN XL, including delusions (e.g., believe you are someone else), hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there), paranoia (feeling that people are against you), or feeling confused. If this happens to you, call your healthcare provider.
• Visual problems: Some people are at risk of glaucoma which can present as: eye pain, changes in vision, or swelling and redness around the eye if they take WELLBUTRIN XL. You should see an eye doctor to determine whether you are at risk prior to starting therapy.
• Severe allergic reactions: Some patients have severe allergic reactions to WELLBUTRIN XL. Stop taking WELLBUTRIN XL and call your healthcare provider right away if you get a rash, itching, hives, fever, swollen lymph glands, painful sores in the mouth or around the eyes, swelling of the lips or tongue, chest pain, or have trouble breathing. These could be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Do not take WELLBUTRIN XL if you:

• have or had a seizure disorder or epilepsy
• have or had an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• are taking any other medicines that contain bupropion, including WELLBUTRIN or WELLBUTRIN SR, APLENZIN^®, ZYBAN, or FORFIVO XL. Bupropion is the same active ingredient that is in WELLBUTRIN XL
• drink a lot of alcohol and abruptly stop drinking, or use medicines called sedatives (these make you sleepy), benzodiazepines, or anti-seizure medicines, and you stop using them all of a sudden
• take a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure if you take an MAOI, including the antibiotic linezolid
  • do not take an MAOI within 2 weeks of stopping WELLBUTRIN XL unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider
  • do not start WELLBUTRIN XL if you stopped taking an MAOI in the last 2 weeks unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider
• are allergic to the active ingredient in WELLBUTRIN XL, bupropion, or to any of the inactive ingredients

Although WELLBUTRIN XL is not a treatment for quitting smoking, it contains the same active ingredient (bupropion) as ZYBAN, which is used to help patients quit smoking. Before taking WELLBUTRIN XL, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had depression, suicidal thoughts or actions, or other mental health problems or any symptoms you had during other times you tried to quit smoking with or without bupropion. Also, tell your healthcare provider about your other medical conditions, including if you:

• have liver problems, especially cirrhosis of the liver
• have kidney problems
• have, or have had, an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• have had a head injury
• have had a seizure (convulsion, fit)
• have a tumor in your nervous system (brain or spine)
• have had a heart attack, heart problems, or high blood pressure
• are a diabetic taking insulin or other medicines to control your blood sugar
• drink alcohol
• abuse prescription medicines or street drugs
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risk to your unborn baby if you take WELLBUTRIN XL during pregnancy, and about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-844-405-6185
• are breastfeeding. WELLBUTRIN XL passes into your milk in small amounts

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Many medicines increase your chances of having seizures or cause other serious side effects if you take them while you are using WELLBUTRIN XL.

The most common side effects of WELLBUTRIN XL include: trouble sleeping, stuffy nose, dry mouth, dizziness, feeling anxious, nausea, constipation, and joint aches.

Click here to read the Medication Guide carefully before you start using WELLBUTRIN XL. If you have any questions about WELLBUTRIN XL, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Click here for full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide and Boxed Warning regarding suicidal thoughts and actions.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also contact Bausch Health Customer Service at 1-800-321-4576.

90,000 For the first time in history, an AI-developed cure for a deadly disease is being tested on humans. It was created by a native of the USSR

Digitalization
Technique

July 03, 2023 11:14 July 03, 2023 11:14

|

Share

Idiopathic pulmonary
fibrosis was created entirely by artificial intelligence. Now it’s already gone
Phase 2 placebo trials.

First ever AI drug

Clinical trials started
trials of the first drug entirely developed by artificial intelligence (AI),
reports CNBC. INSO18_055 is indicated for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF),
a fairly common chronic disease, as a result of which the pulmonary
tissue is covered with scars.

USA only from this
diseases now affect up to 100 thousand people. Without treatment, it can
take the patient to the grave within 2-5 years.

Applied to
To date, drugs are predominantly aimed at slowing down the development of
diseases, but often give extremely unpleasant side effects.

INSO18_055 was created with the aim of
to overcome the main problems of modern drugs for IPF.

Direct
the manufacturer of the drug is the biotechnology startup Insilico Medicine, whose headquarters
is located in Hong Kong. Its founder and CEO Alexander
Zhavoronkov was born in 1979 in Riga (then the USSR), studied in Canada and the USA,
defended his Ph.D. thesis in Moscow at the Moscow State University. M. V. Lomonosov.

Photo: en.freepik

First AI drug in clinical trials

“This is the first ever
generative AI drug that has reached the second phase of clinical
human trials, says Zhavoronkov.
“There are already other drugs developed by AI, but ours is the first where AI
determined both the key object of influence and the structure of the drug.

Mobile office for medical representatives: SberCRM helped automate the business processes of a pharmaceutical company

Business

According to Zhavoronkov,
when the company was created, its founders immediately focused on algorithms
— on the development of technology capable of independently detecting and
design new molecules.

“In those days I imagine
could not imagine that our AI drugs would be undergoing clinical trials on
patients. But we realized that in order to adequately test our AI platform
it is necessary not only to create new drugs with a new mechanism of action, but also
bring them to clinical trial. Only then can we say that our
the technology works,” said Zhavoronkov.

Phase 2

Currently
the drug is being double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled
study involving 60 patients in 40 different US clinics and
China. If this phase is successful, the test will continue with more
people involved. The current study will take about 12 weeks, and its results
planned to be delivered next year.

How to optimize the internal logistics of the enterprise?

BY

“Using AI for
creating new drugs is one of the main arguments in favor of continuing its
developments against the backdrop of growing fears around the world, says Alexey Vodyasov , technical director
SEQ company. —
Apparently, AI will really be able to advance medicine far ahead.
The problem is that it is capable of creating new ones with the same efficiency.
poisonous substances and weapons. AI is a potential weapon in its own right.
needs tight control. As for the efforts to create with it
new means of saving lives, this is to be welcomed.”

Two more drugs,
created by Insilico Medicine
with the participation of AI, are now undergoing clinical trials: a cure for COVID-19 (in the first phase) and
drug against oncological diseases, which will have to help in
treatment of solid tumors. They were, however, created
AI only partially.

• How to start import substitution of SAP, Oracle and IBM?

Roman Georgiev

Therapist Sukhova explained what happens if you don’t take your pills with water. Find out why water and milk are good for this purpose, but fruit juice is not.

July 5, 20231

Source:

iStockphoto

When a doctor prescribes medicine, we usually don’t think about the requirement to take it with water. What happens if you ignore this recommendation? What kind of water is best to drink drugs? These questions are answered by therapist Vera Sukhova.

Most drugs should be taken with water. This is a neutral substance that serves as an excellent medium for chemical reactions between compounds, which will help the drug to be better absorbed.

Will something terrible happen if you don’t take a pill with anything? At best, the drug will not dissolve well in the stomach and its action will simply be slower. But at worst, the pill can get stuck while passing through the esophagus.

Read also

How should I ideally take pills? The most optimal drink is purified warm water (or water at room temperature) without gas. Cold water interferes with normal absorption and can cause eating disorders: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and so on. Hot – can burn the esophagus and dissolve the tablet prematurely. The recommended volume of liquid is from 100 ml.

Read also

The use of milk is acceptable, it envelops the gastric mucosa and facilitates the absorption of the drug. This is especially important with the constant use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and certain hormones.

Mineral water increases the risk of a chemical reaction with the active substance contained in the preparation. Therefore, mineral water, especially carbonated water, is not suitable for drinking tablets.