Bupropion
Pronounced
"byou-PRO-pee-on"
Uses
This medication is used to treat depression. Bupropion works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (dopamine, norepinephrine) in the brain.
Warning
Bupropion is an antidepressant used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, other mental/mood disorders, and smoking cessation. Antidepressants can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience new or worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication, even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.
Tell the doctor right away if you notice new or worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.
If you are using bupropion to quit smoking, stop taking bupropion and contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms after stopping treatment.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used for other mental/mood disorders (such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder-ADHD, seasonal affective disorder, depressive phase of bipolar disorder). It may be used to help people quit smoking by lessening cravings and nicotine withdrawal. It may also be used to for binge eating disorder (BED).
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Medication Guide available from your pharmacist before you start using bupropion and each time you get a refill. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually three times daily. If stomach upset occurs, you may take this drug with food. It is important to take your doses at least 6 hours apart or as directed by your doctor to decrease your risk of having a seizure.
The manufacturer directs not to crush, cut, or chew the tablet before taking it. However, many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be crushed, cut, or chewed. Follow your doctor's directions on how to take this medication.
Do not take more or less medication or take it more often than prescribed. Taking more than the recommended dose of bupropion may increase your risk of having a seizure.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your dose may be slowly increased to limit side effects such as sleeplessness, and to decrease the risk of seizures. To avoid trouble sleeping, do not take this medication too close to bedtime. Let your doctor know if sleeplessness becomes a problem.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
It may take 4 or more weeks before you notice the full benefit of this drug. Continue to take this medication as directed by your doctor even after you feel better. Talk to your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Store & manage your medication list
Medication pricing updates
Import medication from your pharmacy
Pill & refill reminders
Medication journal & mood log