In this video, Deb and Mike discuss a question about where a person with no photography skills can go in Kakadu to capture a stunning image.
Mike explains that the answer depends on the specific image they are after, as lighting and location play crucial roles. He emphasizes that there is no right or wrong time of day or location for photography in Kakadu.
However, Deb, having a photography background, suggests that the best time of day for photography is sunrise or sunset, during the golden hour. She recommends Ubirr Rock in the north of Kakadu as an iconic location with breathtaking sunsets over the floodplains.
Dan and Neville also discuss the same question, and Neville mentions that the choice of location depends on the person’s preferences. They discuss various options like helicopter rides, lookout points, and specific spots like Nawurlandja and Ubirr with opportunities for capturing storms, lightning, and different times of the day.
Dan even humorously suggests taking a photo of himself in front of a work vehicle.
Lastly, Leigh and Yvonne agree that Ubirr at sunset is a stunning location for photography, with its 360-degree views, vibrant colours, wetland area, and escarpment in the background. They emphasize that one doesn’t need to be an expert to capture a good photo there.
This edition – Katherine Gorge or Kakadu? Insta-worthy places in Litchfield. How long do you need in Kakadu, & more.
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This edition – Katherine Gorge or Kakadu? Insta-worthy places in Litchfield. How long do you need in Kakadu, & more.
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Bupropion in Australia: A Doctor’s Practical Review for Adults Over 30
Important: This article is general medical information, not individual medical advice. Bupropion is a prescription-only medicine in Australia. Always discuss your care with your GP or psychiatrist.
Attention: Are you tired of feeling flat, heavy, unmotivated — or paying the price for your current antidepressant?
If you are over 30, you may know this feeling well. You are managing work, family, bills, maybe teenagers or ageing parents. You wake up exhausted. Your mood is low. Your concentration is worse than it used to be. Perhaps your current antidepressant has helped your mood but left you with weight gain, emotional numbness, or sexual problems. Or maybe every winter you feel like you could hibernate until spring. You don’t want another medication that makes you feel “not yourself” — you want one that works with your life, not against it.
As a doctor, I see patients every week who are frustrated by the same thing: they want an effective treatment that does not rob them of energy, libido, or body confidence. This is where bupropion deserves attention.
Interest: What makes bupropion different from standard antidepressants?
Bupropion is not an SSRI. It belongs to a different class called a noradrenaline-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). In simple terms, it boosts two brain chemicals — noradrenaline and dopamine — which are closely linked to motivation, alertness, reward, and pleasure. Most standard antidepressants mainly boost serotonin, which can improve mood but sometimes causes fatigue, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction.
In Australia, bupropion is available as sustained-release tablets, most commonly known under the brand name Zyban. It is registered for smoking cessation, but doctors may prescribe it off-label for depression and other conditions where its unique profile is useful. This is not unusual — many medicines are used safely off-label when there is good evidence and clinical experience.
Bupropion vs typical SSRI/SNRI antidepressants — general differences
Individual responses vary. This table is a guide, not a guarantee.
Desire: What you really want to know about bupropion
1. How does bupropion affect urination?
Some people notice changes in urination when starting bupropion. Because bupropion increases noradrenaline, it can slightly tighten the bladder outlet, leading to mild hesitancy, a weaker stream, or a feeling of incomplete emptying. This is usually temporary and not dangerous for most people. Unlike older antidepressants, bupropion has little anticholinergic effect, so the severe urinary retention sometimes seen with older drugs is less likely. If you have an enlarged prostate or a history of urinary problems, tell your GP. If you cannot urinate at all or feel pain, seek urgent medical care.
2. How long does bupropion take to work for depression?
Most patients notice early changes within 1–2 weeks, often as improved sleep, slightly more energy, or better concentration. The full antidepressant effect on mood, motivation, and interest in life usually develops over 4–6 weeks, and sometimes up to 8 weeks. It is important not to judge it too quickly. If there is no meaningful improvement after 4–6 weeks at a proper dose, your doctor may adjust the dose or review the plan.
3. Can bupropion be used for sexual dysfunction caused by other antidepressants?
Yes — this is one of the strongest reasons doctors reach for bupropion. Many people on SSRIs or SNRIs struggle with reduced libido, trouble getting aroused, or difficulty reaching orgasm. These side effects can destroy intimacy and self-esteem, especially after 30 when relationships are already under pressure. Bupropion’s dopamine and noradrenaline effects often improve desire, arousal, and orgasm. It can be added to an SSRI at a low dose to counter sexual side effects, or used as a switch. This is a major advantage for patients who want to feel mentally well and remain sexually themselves.
4. Does bupropion affect the menstrual cycle?
There is no strong evidence that bupropion directly disrupts the menstrual cycle. However, some women report temporary changes in timing, flow, or premenstrual symptoms when starting it, especially in the first few months. These changes may be related to shifts in sleep, stress, weight, or quitting smoking rather than the drug itself. Interestingly, bupropion may lower prolactin slightly, which for some women can improve regularity. If you notice persistent, painful, or unusual changes, see your GP for a proper assessment.
5. What is the evidence for bupropion in treating seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?
Bupropion has good evidence for seasonal affective disorder — the winter depression marked by low mood, oversleeping, overeating, carbohydrate cravings, and social withdrawal. International studies show that starting bupropion before winter can reduce the risk of a winter depressive episode. While SAD is less common in Australia than in the Northern Hemisphere, it still occurs, especially in southern states and in people with a strong seasonal pattern. If every winter feels like a heavy cloud, bupropion may be a preventive option worth discussing.
6. What happens if I drink alcohol with bupropion?
This is a serious warning: avoid alcohol, especially binge drinking, while taking bupropion. Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, and alcohol further increases that risk. Even smaller amounts can worsen dizziness, sedation, mood swings, and insomnia. If you drink regularly or heavily, be honest with your doctor. Stopping alcohol suddenly can be dangerous if you are dependent, so medical guidance is essential. For most people, the safest rule is: no alcohol while on bupropion.
7. What are the best practices for discontinuing bupropion?
Do not stop bupropion suddenly. Although it has a lower risk of severe withdrawal symptoms than many SSRIs or venlafaxine, a gradual taper is still best practice. A typical approach is to reduce the dose over 2–4 weeks, or longer if you have been on a high dose for many months. This helps avoid rebound low mood, irritability, insomnia, or flu-like feelings. Always taper under your GP’s supervision and have a follow-up plan in case depression symptoms return.
8. What resources are available for patients on bupropion in Australia?
Australia has excellent support systems. If you are prescribed bupropion, you don’t have to manage alone. Useful resources include:
Your GP — for prescriptions, monitoring, and review
Medicare Mental Health Treatment Plan — ask your GP for a plan to access subsidised psychologist sessions
Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636, beyondblue.org.au — 24/7 support for anxiety and depression
Lifeline — 13 11 14 — crisis support
Black Dog Institute — evidence-based information and online tools
Head to Health — headtohealth.gov.au — government mental health portal
Quitline — 13 78 48 — if you are using bupropion to quit smoking
This Way Up — online cognitive behavioural therapy courses
Action: Take the next step — don’t settle for treatment that only half-works
If you recognise yourself in this article — low energy, weight gain, sexual side effects, winter depression, or a smoking habit you want to beat — bupropion may be worth a conversation. You don’t have to accept feeling flat, heavy, or disconnected. You have the right to ask for a treatment that fits your life.
Here is what to do next:
Book a long consultation with your GP.
Bring this article and a list of your current symptoms, medications, alcohol intake, seizure history, and any pregnancy plans.
Ask: “Is bupropion an appropriate option for me, considering my mood, energy, weight, and sexual health?”
If prescribed, follow up as advised and use the Australian support resources listed above.
Bupropion is not for everyone. People with a history of seizures, eating disorders, heavy alcohol use, or certain other conditions may need to avoid it. But for the right person, it can be a genuinely different option — one that lifts mood and motivation without stealing your sex life or your waistline. Talk to your doctor today.
If you are in crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or present to your nearest emergency department.
