Bupropion was first discovered in 1969 by scientists at Burroughs Wellcome, now part of GlaxoSmithKline. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1985. The active ingredient in Bupropion is bupropion hydrochloride, which is also known as amfebutamone.
Bupropion is used to treat depression and SAD, as it helps to increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. It is also used to help people quit smoking, as it reduces the craving for nicotine and other withdrawal symptoms.
The benefits of Bupropion include its low risk of side effects and its ability to help people quit smoking. It is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being dry mouth, insomnia, and headache. It is also less likely to cause weight gain than other antidepressants.
In addition to its use as an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid, Bupropion is also used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder. It is also sometimes used off-label to treat anxiety, panic disorder, and seasonal affective disorder.
Overall, Bupropion is an effective medication for treating depression, SAD, and smoking cessation. It is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of side effects. It can also be used to treat other conditions, such as ADHD and bipolar disorder.