Bupropion
PrescriptionWhat is Bupropion?
Bupropion is a prescription medication used to treat depression and help people quit smoking. It belongs to a class of drugs called aminoketone antidepressants, which work differently from other common antidepressants like SSRIs. This medication affects certain chemicals in the brain that influence mood and behavior.
The medication comes in several forms, including immediate-release tablets and extended-release versions. Your doctor will prescribe the specific form and strength based on your condition and needs. Bupropion is also sold under brand names like Wellbutrin for depression and Zyban for smoking cessation.
This medication requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. Your doctor will evaluate your medical history and current health status before prescribing bupropion. Regular follow-up appointments help ensure the medication is working effectively and safely for you.
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Common uses
- Treatment of major depressive disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year
- Smoking cessation support to help people quit tobacco
- Off-label use for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in some cases
- Off-label use for weight management in combination with other treatments
How it works
Bupropion works by affecting two important brain chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, help regulate mood, energy, focus, and pleasure. Unlike other antidepressants that target serotonin, bupropion increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain.
For smoking cessation, bupropion reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by affecting the same brain chemicals involved in nicotine addiction. The medication helps balance these chemicals, making it easier to quit smoking. It typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to notice improvements in mood or reduced cravings, though full effects may take several weeks.
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Dosage information
Typical starting doses range from 100 mg once daily to 150 mg once daily, depending on the formulation. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose to a target range of 300 mg to 450 mg per day. Extended-release versions are usually taken once or twice daily, while immediate-release forms may be taken 2 to 3 times daily. Your healthcare provider determines your exact dose based on your condition, response to treatment, and other medications you take. Never adjust your dose without consulting your doctor first.
Side effects
- Dry mouth and changes in taste
- Headache and dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Trouble sleeping or insomnia
- Increased sweating
- Tremor or shaking
- Weight loss or decreased appetite
- Constipation
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor right away if you experience seizures, confusion, severe mood changes, thoughts of suicide, irregular heartbeat, vision problems, or severe allergic reactions. Bupropion can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger adults when first starting treatment. Close monitoring by your healthcare provider is essential, particularly during the first few months of treatment.
Drug interactions
- MAO inhibitors, which can cause dangerous interactions if taken within 14 days of bupropion
- Other medications that lower seizure threshold, including certain antidepressants and antipsychotics
- Alcohol, which increases seizure risk and should be minimized or avoided
- Medications metabolized by CYP2D6 enzyme, as bupropion can affect their levels
- Corticosteroids, diabetes medications, and stimulants may interact with bupropion
- Ritonavir and other medications that affect liver enzymes
- People with seizure disorders, eating disorders, or who are abruptly stopping alcohol or sedatives should not take bupropion
Blood test monitoring
Regular monitoring of liver function is important while taking bupropion because your liver processes this medication. Liver enzymes like ALT and AST should be checked periodically to ensure your liver is handling the medication well. Your doctor may order baseline liver tests before you start bupropion and follow-up tests during treatment, especially if you have a history of liver problems or take other medications that affect the liver. Blood pressure should also be monitored, as bupropion can cause increases in some people. Mental health assessments are essential to track your response to treatment and watch for any concerning mood changes or suicidal thoughts.
Taking Bupropion? Monitor your levels.
- Track how your body responds
- Catch side effects early with blood work
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
Rite Aid pharmacy services are currently in lead generation mode and will be returning soon. You can submit your information to be notified when prescription services become available. Bupropion is a prescription medication that will be available through Rite Aid once pharmacy services resume.
Most people begin noticing improvements in their mood or reduced smoking cravings within 1 to 2 weeks of starting bupropion. However, it may take 4 to 6 weeks to experience the full benefits of the medication. Your doctor may adjust your dose during this time to find the most effective amount for you.
Alcohol should be minimized or avoided while taking bupropion because it increases your risk of seizures. If you currently drink heavily and plan to reduce or stop, tell your doctor first. Suddenly stopping alcohol while on bupropion can also increase seizure risk and requires medical supervision.
Liver enzyme tests are the most important blood tests to monitor while taking bupropion. These include ALT and AST, which show how well your liver is processing the medication. Rite Aid offers blood testing services with 200 plus biomarkers for $349 per year, including 2 tests annually to help you stay on top of your health.
Bupropion works differently than SSRI antidepressants and may be chosen for specific reasons. It often causes less sexual side effects and weight gain compared to other antidepressants. Some doctors prefer it for patients who also struggle with low energy, trouble concentrating, or who want to quit smoking.
Bupropion does carry a small risk of seizures, particularly at higher doses. The risk is about 4 in 1,000 people at doses up to 450 mg per day. Your doctor will avoid prescribing bupropion if you have a seizure disorder, eating disorder, or other conditions that increase seizure risk.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not take two doses at once or take extra medication to make up for a missed dose. If you are unsure what to do, contact your pharmacist or doctor for guidance.
You should not stop bupropion suddenly without talking to your doctor first. While bupropion has less withdrawal risk than some antidepressants, stopping abruptly can cause mood changes or other symptoms. Your doctor may recommend gradually reducing your dose over time when you are ready to stop.
Bupropion is less likely to cause weight gain compared to many other antidepressants. In fact, some people experience modest weight loss while taking it. This makes it a popular choice for people concerned about weight changes from their medication.
You will typically see your doctor more frequently when first starting bupropion, often within 1 to 2 weeks and then monthly for the first few months. This close monitoring helps watch for side effects and suicidal thoughts, especially in younger adults. Once stable, visits may be less frequent, usually every 3 to 6 months for medication management and monitoring.