Wellbutrin XL, Major Depressive Disorder and Breast Cancer

This is research study for women diagnosed with breast cancer and major depression. Women with breast cancer who are depressed may report greater pain, poorer quality of life and worse overall functioning than those without depression. The study will determine whether or not bupropion extended release (Wellbutrin XLTM) is useful in lessening the symptoms of depression in women with breast cancer. One reason for conducting this research with bupropion extended release (Wellbutrin XLTM) instead of another antidepressant is because bupropion has a lower likelihood of causing the side effects of weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and fatigue, which may be important for women with breast cancer and may even have a beneficial effect on these symptoms. Bupropion extended release (Wellbutrin XL™)is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of major depression.