How Does Bupropion Work?

Bupropion works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters that are involved in mood regulation. By increasing levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, bupropion can improve symptoms of depression and help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in people who are quitting smoking.

Indications for Use

1. Major Depression:
   • Use: Bupropion is used to treat symptoms of major depression, including persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities and fatigue.
   • Dosage: The typical starting dose is 150 mg once a day in the morning. After a few days, the dose may be increased to 300 mg per day, depending on the patient's response.
     ‍
2. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):
   • Use: Bupropion is used to prevent episodes of depression in people with SAD, which usually occur in the fall and winter.
   • Dosage: The typical starting dose is 150 mg once a day, increased to 300 mg a day if needed.
     ‍
3. Help to Quit Smoking:
   • Use: Bupropion, under the name Zyban®, is used to help people stop smoking, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
   • Dosage: Usually, you start with 150 mg once a day for the first three days, and then increase to 150 mg twice a day.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, bupropion can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Excessive sweating
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects

• Seizures, especially at high doses or in people with risk factors
• Serious allergic reactions, such as skin rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing
• Changes in blood pressure
• Suicidal thoughts, especially in the first few months of treatment or when changing the dose

Contraindications and Precautions

Bupropion should not be used by people who:

• Have a history of seizures
• Have an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• Are taking other medicines that contain bupropion
• Are allergic to bupropion or any of its ingredients
• Are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken an MAOI in the past 14 days

Precautions:

• Tell the doctor about any history of kidney or liver disorders, high blood pressure, psychiatric disorders, alcohol or drug abuse
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of seizures
• Monitor for symptoms of worsening depression or unusual changes in behavior

Interactions with Other Medications

Bupropion may interact with other medications, which may increase the risk of serious side effects:

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): It should not be taken with bupropion because of the risk of serious side effects
• Antipsychotics, antidepressants, and other medications that affect the CNS: They may increase the risk of seizures
• Medications that affect blood pressure: They can interact and affect the effectiveness of these medications

How to Take Bupropion

• Take bupropion by mouth, usually once a day in the morning, with or without food
• Swallow the tablets whole, without chewing or crushing
• Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment
• Do not stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting a doctor, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms

Conclusion

Bupropion is an effective medication for the treatment of major depression, seasonal affective disorder and as an aid to stop smoking when used correctly. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or are trying to quit smoking, consult a healthcare professional to determine if bupropion is right for you. At Dzeus, we offer confidential consultations and personalized treatments to help you improve your quality of life.

‍