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Bupropion

Generic: Bupropion Hydrochloride

Rx only
aminoketone antidepressantAlso: buPropion Hydrochloride XL✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Bupropion is a medication used to treat major depressive disorder and to help prevent seasonal affective disorder. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that help improve mood. You take it as an extended-release tablet, starting with a dose of 150 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum of 300 mg once daily after a few days. It's important to know that this medication should not be used if you have a seizure disorder or a history of eating disorders like bulimia or anorexia, as it can increase the risk of seizures. Additionally, you should avoid taking it with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as this combination can lead to serious side effects.

Uses

  • major depressive disorder (MDD). seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Dosage

Starting dose for MDD: 150 mg once daily, may increase to 300 mg after 4 days.
Starting dose for SAD: 150 mg once daily, may increase to 300 mg after 7 days.
Take in the morning, with or without food.
For seasonal affective disorder, start in autumn and continue through winter.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.

Side effects

Common

Common side effects: dry mouthnauseainsomniadizzinessabdominal pain

Serious

Serious side effects: suicidal thoughtsseizureshypertensionpsychosis
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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults.
  • Monitor for worsening depression or suicidal thoughts.
  • Do not use with MAO inhibitors due to risk of hypertensive reactions.
  • Use caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment.

Drug interactions

  • Clopidogrelincreases bupropion levelsMonitor
  • Ticlopidineincreases bupropion levelsMonitor
  • Ritonavirdecreases bupropion levelsCaution
  • Levodoparisk of CNS toxicityCaution
  • Alcoholmay reduce tolerance and increase side effects.Caution

Ask about this drug

Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).