Wellbutrin is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor that is used to help treat depression. This medication may also be used to help patients stop smoking or reduce cravings caused by withdrawal effects. While this medication has not been approved for use as a weight loss drug, it has been shown to be effective in this category.

Wellbutrin and Weight Loss

Wellburtin has been shown to be effective in helping patients reduce their caloric intake. This has commonly been used to help prevent those with depression from self-medicating with food. Patients that are hoping to lose weight can use drugs like Wellbutrin to limit their appetite so they can take in fewer calories and lose weight. This will be most effective if patients combine these effects with an exercise routine that will help them burn more calories.

Warnings

It is not clear if Wellbutrin will assist with weight loss in patients that do not suffer from depression. Those who suffer from eating disorders or seizures should also avoid taking this medication to avoid unpleasant side effects. The safety of using Wellbutrin to treat patients under the age of 24 has not been established. Let your doctor know about any other medications you are taking or about any activities such as smoking that you perform on a daily basis. The intake of these substances can increase your risk of developing side effects to your medication.