Bupropion: Drug Information

Generic name: Bupropion

Brand Names: Zyban, Smoquit-Sr, Wellbutrin, Bupron SR, Bupep

Drug Class: Smoking cessation

Uses of Bupropion:

Bupropion belongs to the class of antidepressant medicines but its uses extend beyond treating only specific mental disorders and chemical disturbances in the brain. Bupropion is a well known smoking cessation aid and plays a vital role in enabling individuals overcome various drug dependant habits such as cocaine addiction and smoking. In addition to this it has also been found useful in the treatment of backache and chronic fatigue.

Bupropion does not inhibit the reuptake of mono amine oxidase (MAO) and is a weak inhibitor of the neuronal uptake of norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine.

Indicators and dosage:

It is recommended that you take this medicine as directed by your physician and avoid stopping its intake abruptly. The medicine can be taken with or without food at regular intervals in prescribed doses.

Warnings and Precautions:

Bupropion should not be given to individuals with a history of seizure disorder, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, head injuries or trauma, central nervous system tumor, hypothyroidism or enlarged prostrate.

It should not be given to patients with hypersensitivity.

Bupropion is not recommended for pregnant women. Thus, you must tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you have a history of renal or hepatic impairment before taking the drug.

Caution is advised while taking this medicine during lactation.

Side Effects:

Some of the most common side effects of Bupropion include dryness of the mouth, increased thirst, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, stomach upset, constipation, edema of the face, neck pain, mouth ulcer, anorexia, agitation, restlessness, tremors, anxiety, insomnia, dysphoria, myalgia, and headache.

Drug Interactions:

Neuroleptics, lithium, tricyclic antidepressants, benzodiazepines and alcohol should not be taken with Bupropion.

Levodopa should be avoided with the medicine as it may cause hallucinations and nausea.

Fluoxetine should not be taken with Bupropion as it slows down the process of hepatic clearance.

Bupropion exhibits signs of acute toxicity, hyperventilation and agitation when taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors.