Drug Name: Bupropion
Brand Names: Wellbutrin, Zyban
Generic Name: Bupropion
Uses: Bupropion is in a class of medicines called antidepressants, which are used to treat major depressive disorders and smoking withdrawal effects. They work by acting on specific chemicals in the brain which trigger depressive emotions.
How to use: Bupropion comes as regular tablets and extended-release tablets that are to be taken by mouth. Regular tablets are usually taken three to four times a day while extended-release tablets are usually taken twice a day. If there is any part of your doctor’s directions that you do not understand, do not hesitate to ask questions. Even if you feel better, you must not stop taking Bupropion unless you are instructed by your doctor to do so.
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole. Do not chew or crush them. Swallow both Bupropion regular tablets and extended-release tablets with a full glass of water.
Side Effects: Bupropion may cause some side effects which include restlessness, excitement, anxiety, dry mouth, tremor, weight loss, and excessive sweating. If these side effects become severe, contact your doctor immediately.
There are some rare but serious side effects that can occur. These include fainting, irrational fears, hallucinating, fevers, difficulty in breathing, chest pains, joint pains, irregular heartbeat, and allergic reactions. If these happen, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
Precautions: Be sure to tell your doctor about any drugs or supplements that you are taking. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to Bupropion or some other medication. Also, tell your doctor if you have any history of high blood pressure, heart, kidney or liver diseases. Tell your doctor if you have any history of having head, spine or brain injuries, or illegal drug use.
Drug Interaction: Bupropion may be affected when taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Taking Bupropion while taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors may cause serious side effects. Your doctor may need to reduce or change your prescription dosage as required.
Overdose: Symptoms of Bupropion overdose include seizures, muscle stiffness, hallucinations, fainting, uneven heartbeats and shallow breathing. In case of Bupropion overdose, seek emergency medical treatment.
Notes: Also, it is advisable to minimize alcohol intake or stop drinking completely while you are taking Bupropion since drinking while taking Bupropion may increase the risk of seizures. Also, avoid smoking while taking Bupropion since rising nicotine levels in the body while taking this medication may cause unwanted side effects.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the previous dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose since this can be dangerous.
Important Note: This drug should not be used during pregnancy because its effects on unborn fetuses are still unknown. If you become pregnant while taking Bupropion, contact your doctor immediately.
It is very dangerous for children under 18 years of age to take Bupropion, since it can cause very dangerous side effects including a rise in the tendency of committing suicide. If you Bupropion is prescribed for your child, talk with your doctor regarding his/her possible suicidal tendencies. Take note of the telltale signs of suicide and guard them properly.
Storage: Bupropion must be tightly sealed and kept at room temperature. Do not store it at places with excessive heat or places with excessive moisture (such as the bathroom). Keep it out of the reach of children.
Link informations about Bupropion:
Bupropion resource pages of MedlinePlus
