Bupropion XL Tablets

Description

Generic Name: Bupropion XL
Brand Name: Wellbutrin XL
Important Warning
Bupropion XL is an extended-release antidepressant that can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults during the initial stages of treatment. 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 XL 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, as these conditions increase the risk of seizures.

Uses for Bupropion XL
Bupropion XL is used to treat:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Smoking cessation (off-label use)
The extended-release form (XL) allows for once-daily dosing, which improves medication adherence.

Before Using Bupropion XL
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 XL is not recommended for use in children.
Geriatric: Older adults may be at greater risk of side effects, including agitation, insomnia, or dizziness.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of using bupropion XL during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding: Bupropion passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medication.
Interactions
Medications
Inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications, as they may interact with bupropion XL:

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)
Nicotine replacement products
Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
Food, Alcohol, and Tobacco
Avoid alcohol while taking bupropion XL, as it may increase the risk of seizures.
Inform your doctor if you use tobacco products, especially if using this medication 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 XL
Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage. The initial and maintenance doses may vary depending on the condition being treated.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Start with 150 mg once daily in the morning. If needed, the dose may be increased to 300 mg once daily. Maximum dose: 450 mg/day.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Start with 150 mg once daily in the morning, beginning in the autumn. If needed, the dose may be increased to 300 mg once daily.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.

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

Precautions While Using Bupropion XL
Do not crush, chew, or split extended-release tablets. Swallow them whole.
Avoid abrupt discontinuation of bupropion XL, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms.
Monitor for mood changes, agitation, or suicidal thoughts, particularly during the early stages of treatment or after a dosage change.
Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as this increases the risk of seizures.
Side Effects of Bupropion XL
Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Attention)
Seizures
Severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Chest pain
Suicidal thoughts or behavior
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Common Side Effects
Insomnia
Dry mouth
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Tremors
Increased sweating
Weight loss
Note: Most side effects are mild and improve over time.

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 if you have any questions or concerns about bupropion XL.

Patient Information.

Full Prescribing Information.