Bupropion
Depressive Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Aminoketone
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Bupropion
Summary
Bupropion is used to treat depression, seasonal affective disorder, and to help with quitting smoking. It's also sometimes used off-label for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and for weight management.
Bupropion works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These are neurotransmitters that help regulate mood, attention, and motivation. By enhancing their activity, Bupropion helps reduce symptoms of depression and cravings for nicotine.
The usual starting dose for adults is 150 mg once a day in the morning. After three days, the dose is typically increased to 150 mg twice a day. The time between doses should be at least 8 hours.
Common side effects of Bupropion include insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, and weight loss. Serious side effects can include seizures, suicidal thoughts, and heart palpitations or high blood pressure.
Bupropion should not be used by individuals with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or alcohol/drug abuse due to increased seizure risk. It is also not recommended for those using MAO inhibitors. Caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
Indications and Purpose
How does Bupropion work?
Bupropion works by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters in the brain that help regulate mood, attention, and motivation. By enhancing the activity of these chemicals, Bupropion helps reduce symptoms of depression, improves mood, and helps reduce cravings in smoking cessation. It also has a stimulating effect, which can help with energy levels and focus.
How does one know if Bupropion is working?
The benefit of Bupropion is evaluated by monitoring improvements in depression symptoms, energy, and mood. In smoking cessation, effectiveness is tracked by the reduction in smoking and the quit rate. For ADHD, patient progress is assessed by changes in attention and impulsivity. Follow-up appointments and symptom scales like the HDRS help measure treatment outcomes.
Is Bupropion effective?
Bupropion has been proven effective through multiple clinical studies. For depression, it has shown comparable efficacy to other antidepressants in improving mood and energy. In smoking cessation, studies demonstrate that Zyban significantly reduces the urge to smoke and increases quit rates. It also has effectiveness for seasonal affective disorder and has shown benefits for ADHD in some patients.
What is Bupropion?
Bupropion is commonly used to treat depression, seasonal affective disorder, and smoking cessation. It works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce cravings. Bupropion is also sometimes used off-label for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to manage weight loss.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Bupropion?
Bupropion is typically used for several months to years, depending on the individual's treatment plan. For depression, it may take several weeks to notice improvements, and some people continue using it for long-term management. For smoking cessation, it's generally prescribed for 7 to 12 weeks. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding the duration of use, as they will tailor it to your specific needs and response to the medication.
How do I dispose of Bupropion?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Bupropion?
Bupropion can be taken with or without food, depending on personal preference. It is typically recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body. Avoid alcohol while using this medication, as it can increase the risk of seizures. It's also important not to chew or crush extended-release tablets to prevent overdose.
How long does it take for Bupropion to start working?
Bupropion may start to show effects in about 1 to 2 weeks, but it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for its full benefits to be felt, especially for conditions like depression or smoking cessation. Some people may notice improvements in mood, energy, and concentration sooner, while others may take longer to experience the full effects.
How should I store Bupropion?
Keep your bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (SR) in a cool, dry place, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Make sure to keep them out of direct sunlight.
What is the usual dose of Bupropion?
The usual daily dose of Bupropion for adults typically starts at 150 mg once daily, which may be increased to 300 mg per day. The maximum recommended dose is 400 mg per day. Bupropion is not generally recommended for children, and its use in this age group should be determined by a healthcare professional. Always follow your doctor's specific dosage instructions.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Bupropion be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Bupropion, a medication, is passed into breast milk. The amount of bupropion and its active ingredients that a baby takes in through breast milk is small, about 2% of the amount taken by the mother. However, there have been reports of seizures in breastfed babies whose mothers were taking bupropion. It's not known for sure if the seizures were caused by the bupropion.
Can Bupropion be taken safely while pregnant?
Studies have shown that taking bupropion during the first three months of pregnancy may slightly increase the risk of a heart defect called ventricular septal defect (VSD) in babies. However, the risk is still low. Animal studies have also found that high doses of bupropion can cause birth defects in rabbits, but not in rats.
Can I take Bupropion with other prescription drugs?
Bupropion can interact with MAO inhibitors (increasing risk of severe reactions), antipsychotics (raising seizure risk), and other antidepressants (increasing serotonin, leading to serotonin syndrome). Combining with alcohol also heightens the risk of seizures and side effects. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking Bupropion with other prescription medications to avoid dangerous interactions.
Does Bupropion have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medication. Bupropion can cause adverse effects like dry mouth, insomnia, headache, nausea, and dizziness. These are common and usually mild. However, serious adverse effects, though rare, can include seizures, severe allergic reactions, or mood changes. If you experience any severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider and not to stop taking the medication without their guidance.
Does Bupropion have any safety warnings?
Bupropion has safety warnings, including the risk of seizures, especially in those with a history of seizures or eating disorders. It can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, particularly in young adults. Monitor for mood changes, agitation, or unusual behavior. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and report any new or worsening symptoms while taking Bupropion.
Is Bupropion addictive?
Bupropion is not known to be addictive or habit-forming. It does not have the potential for physical or psychological dependence. Therefore, there are no specific behaviors or warning signs of addiction to watch for with this medication. It's important to take Bupropion exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to discuss any concerns you may have about the medication with them.
Is Bupropion safe for the elderly?
For elderly patients using Bupropion, it's important to use it with caution due to the risk of side effects. They may be more sensitive to the medication and could experience issues if they have kidney or liver problems. Lower doses (typically between 75-225 mg per day) are recommended to reduce side effects. Bupropion should be avoided in individuals with a history of seizures, psychosis, or eating disorders. Always consult a doctor for personalized advice and monitoring.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Bupropion?
Drinking alcohol while taking Bupropion can increase the risk of side effects such as seizures. It is generally advised to avoid alcohol or limit its intake while on this medication. If you drink alcohol regularly, discuss it with your doctor before starting Bupropion to ensure safe use.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Bupropion?
Bupropion does not typically limit the ability to exercise. In fact, it may improve energy levels and motivation, which can enhance exercise performance. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms during physical activity, such as dizziness or shortness of breath, consult your doctor.
Is it safe to stop Bupropion?
Bupropion is often used for long-term management of conditions like depression or to help quit smoking. Stopping it suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of the original symptoms. It's important to consult your doctor before stopping Bupropion, as they may need to gradually reduce your dose to minimize risks. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to mood changes, irritability, or other symptoms. Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance when considering changes to your medication regimen.
What are the most common side effects of Bupropion?
A side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medication. Common side effects of Bupropion include dry mouth, insomnia, headache, nausea, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medication. It's important to remember that new symptoms can occur when starting any new medicine and may not be related to the medication itself. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Bupropion, as they can help determine if the side effects are manageable or if a change in treatment is needed.
Who should avoid taking Bupropion?
Bupropion should not be used by individuals with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or alcohol/drug abuse due to increased seizure risk. It is also contraindicated for those using MAO inhibitors. Caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding, weighing potential risks. Always consult a healthcare provider before use to ensure safety and avoid serious complications.
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