Wellbutrin XL Indications/Uses

Depression/Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Wellbutrin XL is indicated for the treatment of MDD.
The efficacy of bupropion in the treatment of depression or a major depressive episode was established in two 4-week controlled trials of depressed inpatients and in one 6-week controlled trial of outpatients whose diagnoses corresponded most closely to the major depression category of the APA Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) (see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics under Actions).
A major depressive episode (DSM-IV) implies the presence of depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure; in addition, at least 5 of the following symptoms have been present during the same 2-week period and represent a change from previous functioning: Depressed mood, markedly diminished interest or pleasure in usual activities, significant change in weight and/or appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation or retardation, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or impaired concentration, a suicide attempt or suicidal ideation.
The efficacy of bupropion in maintaining an antidepressant response for up to 44 weeks following 8 weeks of acute treatment was demonstrated in a placebo-controlled trial with the sustained-release formulation of bupropion (see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics under Actions). Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use Wellbutrin XL for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.
Seasonal Affective Disorder: Wellbutrin XL is indicated for the prevention of seasonal major depressive episodes in patients with a diagnosis of seasonal affective disorder.
The efficacy of Wellbutrin XL for the prevention of seasonal major depressive episodes was established in 3 controlled trials of adult outpatients with a history of MDD with an autumn-winter seasonal pattern as defined by DSM of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) criteria (see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics under Actions).
Seasonal affective disorder is characterized by recurrent major depressive episodes, most commonly occurring during the autumn and/or winter months. Episodes may last up to 6 months in duration, typically beginning in the autumn and remitting in the springtime. Although patients with seasonal affective disorder may have depressive episodes during other times of the year, the diagnosis of seasonal affective disorder requires that the number of seasonal episodes substantially outnumber the number of non-seasonal episodes during the individual's lifetime.