Which of the following medications is primarily used to treat depression but may also help in anxiety treatment?

Bupropion is primarily known as an antidepressant that belongs to the class of medications called norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs). It works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which can improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

In addition to its primary use for treating major depressive disorder, bupropion is often utilized for anxiety management, particularly in patients who may experience anxiety as a symptom of their depression. Unlike some other antidepressants, bupropion generally has a lower risk of causing sexual side effects and weight gain, making it a versatile option in the management of both depression and anxiety symptoms, particularly in patients who may not respond well to traditional selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

In contrast, medications like duloxetine and venlafaxine are also effective for both depression and anxiety; however, bupropion is distinct due to its unique mechanism of action and side effect profile. Buspirone, while effective for anxiety, is not primarily indicated for depression, which sets it apart from bupropion and the other antidepressants mentioned.