Overview Of Bupropion (Wellbutrin)

Precautions To Remember

This medication is not considered safe for individuals with epilepsy or other conditions that cause seizures. Additionally, it should not be used by people with a history of eating disorders. Bupropion is also not appropriate for individuals with a history of suddenly stopping treatment with sedatives or medicines for seizure control. Patients should not take this medication to treat more than one condition at a time. For example, if a patient uses this drug to treat depression, they should not use it to quit smoking. Doctors need to know about any history of seizures, head injury, brain tumors, spinal cord tumors, or narrow-angle glaucoma. Patients must also let their doctor know about any previous heart attacks and any history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease. It is particularly important to mention any liver issues, especially cirrhosis. Patients should also inform their physician about any alcohol use, depression, or bipolar disorder. This helps doctors determine if this medication is safe for a patient to take.

Pregnant women should discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with their doctor. They may need to be placed on a registry to monitor the effects on the fetus. Individuals under eighteen years old should never take bupropion. When the extended-release tablet is used, patients need to take it whole. Thus, it should not be crushed or chewed. Since this medication may increase blood pressure, doctors will check the patient's blood pressure before and during treatment. Patients who suddenly stop taking this medication could develop withdrawal symptoms. As such, it is essential to speak with a doctor so they can stop taking this medication gradually and safely. Bupropion could cause a false positive on drug screening tests. Individuals who must undergo these screenings should let the staff know that they take this medication.

Discover potential medication interactions next.