Bupropion SR Tablets

Description

Generic Name: Bupropion
Brand Names: Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban
Important Warning
Bupropion is an antidepressant that can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial treatment period. Patients of all ages should be closely monitored for worsening depression, unusual behavior changes, or suicidal ideation. It is not approved for use in pediatric patients.
Bupropion is contraindicated in individuals with a seizure disorder, current or past diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa, or those undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol or sedatives. These conditions increase the risk of seizures.

Uses for Bupropion
Bupropion is used to treat several conditions, including:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Smoking cessation (as Zyban)
The extended-release forms (SR and XL) are often prescribed to improve medication adherence by reducing the number of daily doses.

Before Using Bupropion
Allergies
Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to bupropion or its ingredients. Discuss any other allergies, including those to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Pediatric and Geriatric Use
Pediatric: Bupropion is not recommended for children.
Geriatric: Older adults may be at greater risk of side effects, especially agitation or trouble sleeping.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while on bupropion.
Breastfeeding: Bupropion passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor about whether to continue breastfeeding while taking this medication.
Interactions
Medications
Bupropion may interact with other medications. Inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following:

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)—Do not use within 14 days of taking an MAOI.
Other antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs)
Antipsychotics
Medications that lower the seizure threshold (e.g., antiepileptics, stimulants)
Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
Nicotine replacement products
Food, Alcohol, and Tobacco
Avoid alcohol while taking bupropion, as it may increase the risk of seizures.
Inform your doctor if you use tobacco products, as the dosage may vary for smoking cessation.
Medical Conditions
Discuss with your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

Seizure disorder or a history of seizures
Eating disorders (e.g., bulimia, anorexia nervosa)
Liver or kidney disease
Bipolar disorder
Hypertension
Proper Use of Bupropion
Dosage Forms
Bupropion Tablets: Taken 3 times daily.
Bupropion SR (Sustained Release): Usually taken twice daily.
Bupropion XL (Extended Release): Typically taken once daily in the morning.
Dosing
Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage. The initial and maintenance doses may vary depending on the condition being treated.

Depression:
Immediate-Release: 100 mg 3 times daily (max: 450 mg/day)
SR: Start at 150 mg once daily, then increase to 150 mg twice daily (max: 400 mg/day)
XL: Start at 150 mg once daily, then increase to 300 mg once daily (max: 450 mg/day)
Smoking Cessation:
Start with 150 mg daily for 3 days, then increase to 150 mg twice daily.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Storage
Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep out of reach of children.

Precautions While Using Bupropion
Avoid abrupt discontinuation of bupropion to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
Monitor for mood changes, agitation, or suicidal thoughts, especially at the beginning of treatment or during dosage adjustments.
Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as this increases the risk of seizures.
Inform your doctor if you experience unusual behavioral or mood changes, such as increased agitation or hallucinations.
Side Effects of Bupropion
Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Attention)
Seizures
Severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Suicidal thoughts or behavior
Chest pain
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry mouth
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Tremors
Weight loss
Increased sweating
Note: Most side effects are mild and improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

Emergency Situations and Overdose
In case of overdose, symptoms may include seizures, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, or loss of consciousness. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Contact your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about bupropion.

Patient Information.

Full Prescribing Information.