The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first drug called Wellbutrin XL to treat seasonal affective depression(SAD) Monday.

SAD refers to a kind of mental disorder which strikes often in autumn and winter. The depressive condition can last six months with major symptoms of depressed mood, loss of interest, changes in weight and appetite, sleep disorders, fatigue and even suicidal thinking and behavior.

"Seasonal affective disorder can significantly impair the quality of life of patients with this condition," said Steven Galson, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

"Today's approval can help patients with this condition to avoid the depressive symptoms and impaired functioning that typically affect them in the fall and winter," he added.

Doctors and patients should carefully assess the potential risks and benefits when considering treatment with Wellbutrin XL for SAD, cautioned the FDA.

Source: Xinhua/agencies