This topic should probably be renamed anti-depressants…
The digestive side effects of 5-HTP finally caught up with me, so I’ve switched over to Wellbutrin SR. I was on the original Wellbutrin ages and ages ago but they didn’t have the timed release version then so I had to take it 4 times a day on a rigid schedule which was a pain the the ass. Currently there are three versions of Wellbutrin:
Wellbutrin - Instant release formula, take 2-4 times a day
Wellbutrin SR - sustained release 12 hour formula, 1-2 times a day
Wellbutrin XL - extended release 24 hour formula, 1 time a day
Also Zyban contains the same drug as Wellbutrin but is marketed as an aid to stop smoking. Wellbutrin SR is also marketed as an aid to stop smoking in Taiwan.
Currently (according to the pharmacy I went to) the XL version is not available in Taiwan, and the SR version is only available here in 150mg strength. It comes in packs of 60, and the box and patient information sheet is in both English and Chinese. Wellbutrin SR is normally dosed at 150mg for smoking cessation, or 300mg (twice daily 8-12 hours apart) for treatment of depression. For treatment of depression one should start at 150mg daily for a week or two and then increase to 300mg. I’ve read of others taking higher doses than 300mg, but I’ve also read that the risk of seizure is higher at dosages above 450mg daily.
If you have a history of seizures, kidney or liver problems, Wellbutrin is not for you. Read the prescribing information and patient information sheets for more information: us.gsk.com/products/assets/us_wellbutrinSR.pdf
It’s been mentioned before in other areas, but the place I bought Wellbutrin SR at is:
The Shanghai Union Dispensary & Co. Ltd.
32 Henyang Road
Taipei
(02)2311-6644
shanghai@ms5.hinet.net
They are located on Henyang Road between Chongqing and Bo Ai Roads. You can reach it easily from Ximen Station by walking east on Henyang Road to just past Bo Ai Road and it will be on your right. It is also walking distance from Taipei Main Station or NTU Hospital Station.