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Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs)

Side effects of NDRIs

Side effects of NDRIs include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Skin rash
  • Sweating
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Shakiness and nervousness
  • Stomach pain
  • Agitation
  • Constipation
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Muscle pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Sore throat
  • More frequent urination

Safety concerns with NDRIs

Bupropion can increase blood pressure in some people, so regular monitoring is important. The risk of developing high blood pressure may increase if you also use nicotine replacement therapy, such as a nicotine patch, to help you stop smoking.

There's a small chance that taking bupropion can cause a seizure if you've had previous seizures, a head injury or a nervous system tumor, or if you've had an eating disorder, such as bulimia or anorexia. Because of that, don't take this medication if you have a history of seizures or eating disorders or if you're abruptly discontinuing use of alcohol or sedatives. Be sure to tell your doctor about your past medical issues.

Also, because of potentially dangerous medication interactions, be sure your doctor knows about any current or previous use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Tell your doctor also if you have severe liver cirrhosis, because Wellbutrin can cause liver problems. In addition, don't take Zyban while you're being treated with any form of Wellbutrin.

Suicidal feelings and NDRIs

In some cases, antidepressants may be associated with worsening symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior in those ages 18 to 24. These symptoms are most likely to occur during the first one to two months of treatment or when you change your dosage. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any changes in your symptoms. You may need more careful monitoring at the beginning of treatment or upon a change in treatment, or you may need to stop the medication if your symptoms worsen. Adults age 65 and older taking antidepressants have a decreased risk of suicidal thoughts.

Talk with your doctor to nix your irritability, sadness or anger and boost your mood with NDRIs. Feel good again.

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References
  1. Wellbutrin SR (prescribing information). Research Triangle Park, N.C.: GlaxoSmithKline; 2007. http://us.gsk.com/products/assets/us_wellbutrinSR.pdf. Accessed Oct. 9, 2008.
  2. Wellbutrin XL (prescribing information). Mississauga, Ontario, Canada: Biovail Corp.; 2004. http://us.gsk.com/products/assets/us_wellbutrinXL.pdf. Accessed Oct. 3, 2008.
  3. Zyban (prescribing information). Research Triangle Park, N.C.: GlaxoSmithKline; 2007. http://us.gsk.com/products/assets/us_zyban.pdf. Accessed Oct. 9, 2008.
  4. Questions and answers on antidepressant use in children, adolescents, and adults. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/antidepressants/QA20070502.htm. Accessed Sept. 29, 2008.
  5. FDA proposes new warnings about suicidal thinking, behavior in young adults who take antidepressant medications. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2007/NEW01624.html. Accessed Sept. 12, 2008.
  6. Hall-Flavin DK (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 1, 2008.
  7. Antidepressants: Selecting one that's right for you. MayoClinic.com. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/antidepressants/HQ01069. Accessed Oct. 16, 2008.

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Dec. 10, 2008

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