Bupropion Sr
bupropion HCl (smoking deter) Drug Details (Generic)
Generic Name:
Therapeutic Class:
Availability:
Common Brands:
Form:
bupropion HCl Drug Details (Generic)
Generic Name:
Bupropion extended-release (bupropion XL)
Common Brands:
Aplenzin, Forfivo XL, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban, Buproprion XL
Availability:
Prescription only
Therapeutic Class:
Atypical antidepressant; miscellaneous antidepressant; smoking cessation agent
Forms:
Wellbutrin SR (sustained-release formulation):
- Sustained-release tablets: 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg
- Wellbutrin XL (extended-release formulation):
- Extended-release tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg
Bupropion hydrochloride:
- Immediate-release tablets: 75 mg, 100 mg
- Sustained-release tablets: 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg
- Extended-release tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg
Bupropion hydrobromide:
- Extended-release tablets: 174 mg, 348 mg, 522 mg
- Zyban (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablet): 150 mg
- Forfivo XL (bupropion extended-release tablet): 450 mg
- Aplenzin (bupropion hydrobromide extended-release tablet): 174 mg, 348 mg, 522 mg
Administration:
By mouth
Therapeutic Uses:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) or depression
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - bupropion HCl extended-release (Wellbutrin XL) only
Controlled Status:
Not a controlled substance
What is bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release and its brand name Wellbutrin XL are approved to treat major depressive disorder (depression) and seasonal affective disorder (seasonal depression).
Bupropion is also available under the brand Zyban. Zyban is a smoking cessation agent; it reduces cravings and other withdrawal effects from quitting smoking.
There may be other uses of bupropion—your pharmacist or physician can give you further information and assistance.
Who can take bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
- Adults
- Children who are 6 and older: only as an off-label indication to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Wellbutrin XL Drug Details (Brand)
Generic Name:
Therapeutic Class:
Bipolar Disorder
Availability:
Rx
Common Brands:
Form:
Oral tablet, extended release 24 hour
BUPROPION (byoo PROE pee on) is used to treat depression.
Wellbutrin SR Drug Details (Brand)
Generic Name:
Therapeutic Class:
Bipolar Disorder
Availability:
Rx
Common Brands:
Form:
Oral tablet, extended release 12 hour
BUPROPION (byoo PROE pee on) is used to treat depression.
Forfivo XL Drug Details (Brand)
Generic Name:
Therapeutic Class:
Bipolar Disorder
Availability:
Rx
Common Brands:
Form:
Oral tablet, extended release 24 hour
BUPROPION (byoo PROE pee on) is used to treat depression.
bupropion HCl Uses (Generic)
This medication guide will provide information on bupropion XL (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release) and the brand Wellbutrin XL, Zyban.
What is bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) used for?
- Treatment of depression (major depressive disorder)
- Prevention of seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder)
- Smoking cessation assistance (only with the brand Zyban)
How does bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) work?
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant; it works by affecting the levels of different brain chemicals. Bupropion's exact mechanism of action for treating depression is not completely clear. Studies have shown that bupropion inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, increasing these two brain chemicals' levels in the central nervous system. Bupropion does not affect the levels of serotonin or monoamine oxidase.
Nicotine causes a release of dopamine. Bupropion is believed to be effective as a smoking cessation agent because it increases dopamine levels in the brain, replacing the dopamine deficiency during nicotine withdrawal. That is how Zyban works to help people quit smoking.
What is the dosage of bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
Typical adult dosing for depression (major depressive disorder):
Bupropion hydrochloride immediate-release tablets:
Initial dose: take 100 mg by mouth twice daily for 3 days; may increase to 100 mg by mouth three times daily.
Maximum daily dose: 450 mg/day
The maximum daily dose is 150 mg by mouth three times daily or 100 mg by mouth four times daily.
Separate all doses by at least 6 hours
Maximum single dose: 150 mg
Bupropion sustained-release tablets (Wellbutrin SR):
Initial dose: take 150 mg by mouth once daily in the morning for 3 days; may increase to 150 mg by mouth twice daily.
Maximum daily dose: 400 mg/day
The maximum daily dose is 200 mg by mouth twice daily.
Separate all doses by at least 8 hours
Maximum single dose: 200 mg
Bupropion extended-release tablets (Wellbutrin XL):
Initial dose: take 150 mg by mouth once daily in the morning for 3 days; may increase to 300 mg by mouth once daily.
Maximum daily dose: 450 mg/day
The maximum daily dose can be given as 450 mg by mouth once daily.
Forfivo XL (Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release 450 mg tablet):
Forfivo XL is available as a 450 mg extended-release tablet and should not be used to initiate treatment.
For patients who have been using 300 mg/day of another formulation for at least 2 weeks who require a dose of 450 mg/day or patients who are currently using 450 mg/day of another formulation:
Take Forfivo XL 450 mg by mouth once daily
Typical adult dosing for prevention of seasonal depression:
Bupropion extended-release tablets (Wellbutrin XL):
Initial dose: take 150 mg by mouth once daily in the morning for 1 week; if well tolerated, increase to the usual and maximum dose of 300 mg/day
Duration of treatment: begin treatment in autumn (before the start of symptoms), continue through winter, and discontinue in early spring.
In patients taking 300 mg/day, taper dose to 150 mg/day for 2 weeks before discontinuation.
bupropion HCl (smoking deter) Directions (Generic)
bupropion HCl Directions (Generic)
How should I take bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Follow all directions on the prescription label and any medication guides if provided. Never take a larger or smaller amount than the prescribed dose; taking too much bupropion can cause seizures.
You should not discontinue bupropion suddenly; sudden discontinuation of bupropion can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Unless you have seizures while taking bupropion, tell your doctor, and bupropion should be discontinued immediately.
If you take bupropion for seasonal depression, your doctor will tell you how to safely stop using it in the early spring.
Do not cut, crush, break, or chew bupropion extended-release tablets. You should swallow the tablet whole.
Instructions for the use of bupropion (Zyban) for smoking cessation:
- You may continue to smoke for about 1 week after you start bupropion (Zyban)
- Set a quit date during the second week of bupropion (Zyban)
- Talk to your healthcare provider if you have trouble quitting after you have used bupropion (Zyban) for at least 7 to 12 weeks.
- If your doctor prescribes you nicotine replacement therapy such as nicotine patches or gum to help you quit smoking, you may start using the nicotine replacement product (patches or gums) on the same day you quit smoking or using tobacco products.
With smoking cessation, you may have nicotine withdrawal symptoms; you may have these symptoms with or without bupropion (Zyban). Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include trouble concentrating, sleeping problems, increased appetite, weight gain, slowed heart rate, anxiety, restlessness, feeling depressed, angry, frustrated, irritated, and having the urge to smoke.
Smoking cessation may cause new or worsen existing mental illnesses, such as depression. Tell your doctor if you experience any change in your mood or behavior.
Bupropion may cause false positive drug screening tests. If you have to do a urine drug screening, let your doctor or laboratory personnel know that you take bupropion.
Missed dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the amount or take more than prescribed to make up for the missed dose. Let your doctor or pharmacist know immediately if you have missed more than one dose or are unsure about what to do.
Storage: Keep the medication in its original container; keep it tightly closed, out of reach of children, pets, and other people. Like any other prescription medication, bupropion should not be shared with anyone. Many people store their medications in the bathroom; this is not recommended due to moisture and heat.
Unused medicine: Like other prescription medications, do not consume bupropion after the expiration date. This prescription drug is intended for your use only. Unneeded medicines should be disposed of appropriately to prevent children, pets, and other people from getting to them. Your local pharmacy can provide information about medication drug take-back programs. You can also learn more about proper medication disposal.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary and may not contain all possible information. If you have more questions or concerns about bupropion, talk to your pharmacist or doctor to ensure that this information applies to you or your family member.
Discounted prices for bupropion start at $25.56
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Wellbutrin XL Directions (Brand)
How should I use Wellbutrin XL?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Do not crush, chew, or cut these tablets. This medicine is taken once daily at the same time each day. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly except upon the advice of your doctor. Stopping this medicine too quickly may cause serious side effects or your condition may worsen.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of Wellbutrin XL contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: Wellbutrin XL is only for you. Do not share Wellbutrin XL with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Wellbutrin SR Directions (Brand)
How should I use Wellbutrin SR?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Do not cut, crush or chew this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. If you take this medicine more than once a day, take your second dose at least 8 hours after you take your first dose. To limit difficulty in sleeping, avoid taking this medicine at bedtime. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly except upon the advice of your doctor. Stopping this medicine too quickly may cause serious side effects or your condition may worsen.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of Wellbutrin SR contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: Wellbutrin SR is only for you. Do not share Wellbutrin SR with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Forfivo XL Directions (Brand)
How should I use Forfivo XL?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Do not crush, chew, or cut these tablets. This medicine is taken once daily at the same time each day. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly except upon the advice of your doctor. Stopping this medicine too quickly may cause serious side effects or your condition may worsen.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of Forfivo XL contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: Forfivo XL is only for you. Do not share Forfivo XL with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
bupropion HCl (smoking deter) Side Effects (Generic)
bupropion HCl Side Effects (Generic)
What are bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) side effects?
Signs of bupropion allergy: difficulty breathing, hives (rash on your body), swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat—If you experience any of these symptoms, please call 911 or seek emergency medical care at the nearest emergency room (ER).
Inform your healthcare provider of any changes in psychiatric symptoms, including unusual changes in behavior, hostility, agitation, depressed mood, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling impulsive, being hyperactive, thoughts of self-harm.
Like other antidepressants, bupropion can cause new or worsening mental illness. If you take bupropion (Zyban) for smoking cessation, nicotine withdrawal symptoms may further complicate these neuropsychiatric symptoms. Tell your doctor immediately about any change in your mood or behavior.
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following signs:
- Manic symptoms - increased energy, reckless behavior, racing thoughts, feeling extreme emotions (extremely happy or irritable), being more talkative, severe/unusual sleep problems
- Confusion
- A seizure
- Any change in vision such as blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, seeing halos around lights
- Fast or irregular heartbeats
Common side effects of bupropion:
- Blurred vision
- Headache, dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting
- Stomach pain, constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat, stuffy nose
- Unusual sleep problems
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Fast heartbeats
- Confusion, agitation
Bupropion overdose: An overdose of bupropion can be fatal. Go to the nearest emergency room or call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. You can find more information at www.poisonhelp.org/help.
Symptoms of bupropion overdose: Seizures were reported in one-third of bupropion overdosage cases. Other reactions reported with an overdose of bupropion alone include:
- Hallucinations
- Loss of consciousness
- Fast heartbeats
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Cardiac failure, cardiac arrest
- Death
There are no antidotes for bupropion. In case of an overdose, overdosed patients are provided with supportive care in the hospital settings, including close medical supervision and monitoring. Consider the possibility of multiple drug overdoses.
The above list on this site may not include all the possible side effects of bupropion. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist at your local pharmacy if you have persistent side effects or any side effects that are not listed above. You can also report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Source: FDAWellbutrin XL Side Effects (Brand)
What side effects may I notice from receiving Wellbutrin XL?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-breathing problems
-changes in vision
-confusion
-elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior
-fast or irregular heartbeat
-hallucinations, loss of contact with reality
-increased blood pressure
-rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
-redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
-seizures
-suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
-unusually weak or tired
-vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-constipation
-headache
-loss of appetite
-nausea
-tremors
-weight loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects for Wellbutrin XL. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Source: FDAWellbutrin SR Side Effects (Brand)
What side effects may I notice from receiving Wellbutrin SR?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-breathing problems
-changes in vision
-confusion
-elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior
-fast or irregular heartbeat
-hallucinations, loss of contact with reality
-increased blood pressure
-rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
-redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
-seizures
-suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
-unusually weak or tired
-vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-constipation
-headache
-loss of appetite
-nausea
-tremors
-weight loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects for Wellbutrin SR. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Source: FDAForfivo XL Side Effects (Brand)
What side effects may I notice from receiving Forfivo XL?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-breathing problems
-changes in vision
-confusion
-elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior
-fast or irregular heartbeat
-hallucinations, loss of contact with reality
-increased blood pressure
-rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
-redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
-seizures
-suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
-unusually weak or tired
-vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-constipation
-headache
-loss of appetite
-nausea
-tremors
-weight loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects for Forfivo XL. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Source: FDAbupropion HCl (smoking deter) Warnings (Generic)
bupropion HCl Warnings (Generic)
What are the risks of taking bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
Bupropion can cause serious health problems in certain groups of people. You should talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or other treatment options.
Boxed warning*: Suicidal thoughts and behaviors Antidepressants have a boxed warning for worsening depression and suicidal ideations and behavior at the beginning of bupropion treatment. This risk increases in children, adolescents, and young adults between 18 and 24. Having depression or other mental health conditions further increases this risk. If you are taking bupropion or any other antidepressant medication, you should report any changes in your mood and behavior immediately to your doctor. Seek emergency medical help if you feel the urge for self-harm, especially during the initial few months of treatment, or at times of dose changes (either increases or decreases). Family members and caregivers should also be alerted to watch for any unusual changes in the patient’s mood and behavior at the beginning of antidepressant medication or any time the dose is changed. *Boxed warning, also known as black box warning, is the strictest warning that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can issue for a drug.
Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about other treatment options if you are at high risk for the above complications. |
What should I tell my doctor before starting bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
To ensure bupropion is safe for you, before starting bupropion treatment, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- Seizures
- Brain injury or spinal cord tumor
- Cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure or heart attack
- Diabetes
- Kidney or liver disease, especially cirrhosis
- Depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental illness
- If you regularly drink alcohol
What proper medical care should I take while on bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors can have dangerous drug interactions with bupropion. Examples of MAO inhibitors include phenelzine, selegiline, rasagiline, isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, and tranylcypromine. You should not use bupropion if you have taken an MAO inhibitor within the past 14 days. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure if one of your medications is an MAO inhibitor.
You should only take bupropion to treat one condition at a time. Meaning, if you take bupropion for depression or anxiety, you should not also take it for smoking cessation.
Bupropion is not approved to be used by anyone younger than 18 years of age.
Younger adults are at higher risk of having suicidal thoughts and ideation at the beginning of bupropion treatment. Family members or caregivers should be informed about this risk to watch out for any changes in the patient’s mood and behavior.
Talk to your doctor if you take bupropion and you plan to get pregnant. It is unknown if bupropion will harm an unborn baby. However, untreated depression can lead to other complications such as premature birth and low birth weight, among other adverse outcomes. Discuss the risks and the benefits with your doctor. You should not start or stop taking bupropion without consulting your doctor first.
Let your doctor know immediately if you get pregnant while taking bupropion. If you are currently pregnant and taking bupropion, it is highly recommended that you enroll in the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants or call 1-844-405-6185. This registry monitors the safety of certain antidepressants during pregnancy.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding as it may not be safe to breastfeed while using bupropion. You should not take bupropion if you are allergic to it.
You should not take bupropion if you have:
- Seizure disorder
- An eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia
- Recent sudden discontinuation of regular alcohol intake
- Recent discontinuation of a seizure medicine or a sedative, such as Klonopin, Valium, and Xanax
What drugs can interact with bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
Certain medications will increase your risk of having seizures while taking bupropion. You should provide your medication list and discuss the risk of this drug interaction with your healthcare provider.
This is not a complete list. Other drugs, including prescriptions, over-the-counter products, herbal supplements, and vitamins, may interact with bupropion. Not all potential drug interactions are listed in this guide. It is highly recommended to keep a list of all the drug products you are using (prescriptions, over-the-counter products, herbal supplements, natural products, and vitamins) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Wellbutrin XL Warnings (Brand)
What may interact with Wellbutrin XL?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
-linezolid
-MAOIs like Azilect, Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
-methylene blue (injected into a vein)
-other medicines that contain bupropion like Zyban
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
-alcohol
-certain medicines for anxiety or sleep
-certain medicines for blood pressure like metoprolol, propranolol
-certain medicines for depression or psychotic disturbances
-certain medicines for HIV or AIDS like efavirenz, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir
-certain medicines for irregular heart beat like propafenone, flecainide
-certain medicines for Parkinson''s disease like amantadine, levodopa
-certain medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital
-cimetidine
-clopidogrel
-cyclophosphamide
-digoxin
-furazolidone
-isoniazid
-nicotine
-orphenadrine
-procarbazine
-steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
-stimulant medicines for attention disorders, weight loss, or to stay awake
-tamoxifen
-theophylline
-thiotepa
-ticlopidine
-tramadol
-warfarin
What should I tell my health care provider before I take Wellbutrin XL?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia
-bipolar disorder or psychosis
-diabetes or high blood sugar, treated with medication
-glaucoma
-head injury or brain tumor
-heart disease, previous heart attack, or irregular heart beat
-high blood pressure
-kidney or liver disease
-seizures (convulsions)
-suicidal thoughts or a previous suicide attempt
-Tourette''s syndrome
-weight loss
-an unusual or allergic reaction to bupropion, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-breast-feeding
-pregnant or trying to become pregnant
What should I watch for while using Wellbutrin XL?
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse. Visit your doctor or healthcare provider for regular checks on your progress. Because it may take several weeks to see the full effects of this medicine, it is important to continue your treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
This medicine may cause serious skin reactions. They can happen weeks to months after starting the medicine. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice fevers or flu-like symptoms with a rash. The rash may be red or purple and then turn into blisters or peeling of the skin. Or, you might notice a red rash with swelling of the face, lips or lymph nodes in your neck or under your arms.
Patients and their families should watch out for new or worsening thoughts of suicide or depression. Also watch out for sudden changes in feelings such as feeling anxious, agitated, panicky, irritable, hostile, aggressive, impulsive, severely restless, overly excited and hyperactive, or not being able to sleep. If this happens, especially at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose, call your healthcare provider.
Avoid alcoholic drinks while taking this medicine. Drinking large amounts of alcoholic beverages, using sleeping or anxiety medicines, or quickly stopping the use of these agents while taking this medicine may increase your risk for a seizure.
Do not drive or use heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. This medicine can impair your ability to perform these tasks.
Do not take this medicine close to bedtime. It may prevent you from sleeping.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
The tablet shell for some brands of this medicine does not dissolve. This is normal. The tablet shell may appear whole in the stool. This is not a cause for concern.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Wellbutrin SR Warnings (Brand)
What may interact with Wellbutrin SR?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
-linezolid
-MAOIs like Azilect, Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
-methylene blue (injected into a vein)
-other medicines that contain bupropion like Zyban
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
-alcohol
-certain medicines for anxiety or sleep
-certain medicines for blood pressure like metoprolol, propranolol
-certain medicines for depression or psychotic disturbances
-certain medicines for HIV or AIDS like efavirenz, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir
-certain medicines for irregular heart beat like propafenone, flecainide
-certain medicines for Parkinson''s disease like amantadine, levodopa
-certain medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital
-cimetidine
-clopidogrel
-cyclophosphamide
-digoxin
-furazolidone
-isoniazid
-nicotine
-orphenadrine
-procarbazine
-steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
-stimulant medicines for attention disorders, weight loss, or to stay awake
-tamoxifen
-theophylline
-thiotepa
-ticlopidine
-tramadol
-warfarin
What should I tell my health care provider before I take Wellbutrin SR?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia
-bipolar disorder or psychosis
-diabetes or high blood sugar, treated with medication
-glaucoma
-head injury or brain tumor
-heart disease, previous heart attack, or irregular heart beat
-high blood pressure
-kidney or liver disease
-seizures
-suicidal thoughts or a previous suicide attempt
-Tourette''s syndrome
-weight loss
-an unusual or allergic reaction to bupropion, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-breast-feeding
-pregnant or trying to become pregnant
What should I watch for while using Wellbutrin SR?
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse. Visit your doctor or healthcare provider for regular checks on your progress. Because it may take several weeks to see the full effects of this medicine, it is important to continue your treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
This medicine may cause serious skin reactions. They can happen weeks to months after starting the medicine. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice fevers or flu-like symptoms with a rash. The rash may be red or purple and then turn into blisters or peeling of the skin. Or, you might notice a red rash with swelling of the face, lips or lymph nodes in your neck or under your arms.
Patients and their families should watch out for new or worsening thoughts of suicide or depression. Also watch out for sudden changes in feelings such as feeling anxious, agitated, panicky, irritable, hostile, aggressive, impulsive, severely restless, overly excited and hyperactive, or not being able to sleep. If this happens, especially at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose, call your healthcare provider.
Avoid alcoholic drinks while taking this medicine. Drinking excessive alcoholic beverages, using sleeping or anxiety medicines, or quickly stopping the use of these agents while taking this medicine may increase your risk for a seizure.
Do not drive or use heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. This medicine can impair your ability to perform these tasks.
Do not take this medicine close to bedtime. It may prevent you from sleeping.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Forfivo XL Warnings (Brand)
What may interact with Forfivo XL?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
-linezolid
-MAOIs like Azilect, Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
-methylene blue (injected into a vein)
-other medicines that contain bupropion like Zyban
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
-alcohol
-certain medicines for anxiety or sleep
-certain medicines for blood pressure like metoprolol, propranolol
-certain medicines for depression or psychotic disturbances
-certain medicines for HIV or AIDS like efavirenz, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir
-certain medicines for irregular heart beat like propafenone, flecainide
-certain medicines for Parkinson''s disease like amantadine, levodopa
-certain medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital
-cimetidine
-clopidogrel
-cyclophosphamide
-digoxin
-furazolidone
-isoniazid
-nicotine
-orphenadrine
-procarbazine
-steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
-stimulant medicines for attention disorders, weight loss, or to stay awake
-tamoxifen
-theophylline
-thiotepa
-ticlopidine
-tramadol
-warfarin
What should I tell my health care provider before I take Forfivo XL?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia
-bipolar disorder or psychosis
-diabetes or high blood sugar, treated with medication
-glaucoma
-head injury or brain tumor
-heart disease, previous heart attack, or irregular heart beat
-high blood pressure
-kidney or liver disease
-seizures (convulsions)
-suicidal thoughts or a previous suicide attempt
-Tourette''s syndrome
-weight loss
-an unusual or allergic reaction to bupropion, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-breast-feeding
-pregnant or trying to become pregnant
What should I watch for while using Forfivo XL?
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse. Visit your doctor or healthcare provider for regular checks on your progress. Because it may take several weeks to see the full effects of this medicine, it is important to continue your treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
This medicine may cause serious skin reactions. They can happen weeks to months after starting the medicine. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you notice fevers or flu-like symptoms with a rash. The rash may be red or purple and then turn into blisters or peeling of the skin. Or, you might notice a red rash with swelling of the face, lips or lymph nodes in your neck or under your arms.
Patients and their families should watch out for new or worsening thoughts of suicide or depression. Also watch out for sudden changes in feelings such as feeling anxious, agitated, panicky, irritable, hostile, aggressive, impulsive, severely restless, overly excited and hyperactive, or not being able to sleep. If this happens, especially at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose, call your healthcare provider.
Avoid alcoholic drinks while taking this medicine. Drinking large amounts of alcoholic beverages, using sleeping or anxiety medicines, or quickly stopping the use of these agents while taking this medicine may increase your risk for a seizure.
Do not drive or use heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. This medicine can impair your ability to perform these tasks.
Do not take this medicine close to bedtime. It may prevent you from sleeping.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
The tablet shell for some brands of this medicine does not dissolve. This is normal. The tablet shell may appear whole in the stool. This is not a cause for concern.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
bupropion HCl Pros & Cons (Generic)
What are the pros and cons of bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)?
- Available as a generic at a lower price
- Effective in treating depression as a monotherapy or in combination with other antidepressants
- An affordable alternative for people who have not had positive outcomes with other antidepressant classes such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Has fewer sexual side effects than other antidepressants
- Weight gain is not as prevalent as a side effect as other antidepressants
- Not a safe option for people who have seizures or eating disorders
- Takes several weeks to see the full effects
- Must avoid or limit the amount of alcohol consumed during treatment
- May cause sleeping problems if it is being taken later on during the day
bupropion HCl Pharmacist Tips (Generic)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) tips from pharmacists
- Bupropion is available in different brands and generics, with different formulations (extended-release, immediate-release, and sustained-release). Make sure you are using the correct medication and formulation. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure which bupropion formulation you are taking.
- Seizures are one of the most common adverse effects of bupropion. You must stop bupropion immediately and contact your healthcare provider if you have seizures while taking it.
- Like other antidepressants, bupropion can worsen existing depression, causing suicidal thoughts and ideation, especially during the first few months of treatment. Let your doctor know if you experience any changes in mood and behavior. Seek emergency medical care if you feel suicidal or have an increased urge for self-harm.
- Let your loved ones know when you start taking bupropion so they can watch out for any changes in your mood and behavior, especially if you have a history of depression and are using bupropion for smoking cessation in combination with nicotine replacement therapy.
- You should avoid drinking alcohol as much as possible while being on bupropion treatment. A large amount of alcohol or sudden discontinuation of alcohol use can increase your risk of seizures. Alcohol can also enhance the CNS depressant effects and make you dizzier.
- Even if you take it for seasonal depression, you should not stop taking bupropion suddenly as it can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor on how to safely taper off bupropion.
- You can take bupropion with or without food in the morning to avoid sleeping problems.
- Do not cut, chew, crush or cut the sustained-release or extended-release bupropion formulation.
- For most medications, if you miss a dose, you should skip that dose. If it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose, you should wait until the next scheduled dose to take the medicine. This fact is extremely important with bupropion. You should never take a double dose of bupropion, as too much bupropion can increase your risk of a seizure. For the same reason, you should separate bupropion doses by at least 6 to 8 hours if you take multiple doses of bupropion throughout the day.
- Bupropion can cause dizziness and affect your coordination and concentration. You should not drive, operate hazardous machinery, or perform activities that require mental alertness.
- Like other antidepressants, it can take several weeks or months to feel the full antidepressant effects. You may experience more adverse effects than improvement at the beginning of treatment. However, if those side effects or your depression worsen or do not improve, discuss with your doctor to see if you should switch to another medication.
bupropion HCl Rx Savings Tips (Generic)
Bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) Rx savings tips
Bupropion is available as a generic medication. Other trademarks of bupropion are Aplenzin, Forfivo XL, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban, Budeprion XL. The generic version is a lot cheaper than the brand-name version. For additional savings and discounts, with a BuzzRx discount coupon or savings card, you can get bupropion at substantially lower prices. By presenting the free BuzzRx discount card at your preferred pharmacy, you can save on out-of-pocket costs for bupropion. BuzzRx discount cards can be used to save on drugs at all participating pharmacies, including CVS pharmacy, Walgreens, Rite Aid, among other major pharmacies. Visit our website to see all of the pharmacies in our network.
Lowest Price for Bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) | |
Brand $452.93 | Generic $25.56 |
VIEW DISCOUNTS Pricing based on most commonly-filled versions. Select the strength and quantity of your medication for the most accurate pricing. |
bupropion HCl Common Questions (Generic)
Common Questions about bupropion (Wellbutrin XL)
What is the difference between Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR?Wellbutrin XL is the brand name of bupropion extended-release, and Wellbutrin SR is the brand name of bupropion sustained release. The extended-release version of bupropion releases the medicine slowly into the body, meaning the drug will stay in the system longer. These two formulations are not interchangeable. |
How long does it take bupropion to work?You probably will not feel any improvement for several weeks. It’s very likely that you will feel the side effects before you see an improvement in your mood. That’s why it is important to take bupropion regularly and exactly as prescribed. However, if the side effects become too bothersome, you should let your doctor know. |
When should I start taking bupropion for seasonal depression?Bupropion extended-release (Wellbutrin XL) is approved to treat seasonal depression. You can begin treatment in autumn (prior to the start of symptoms), continue through winter, and discontinue in early spring. Talk to your doctor in the spring on how to safely taper off bupropion. You should not discontinue bupropion suddenly, as you can experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms |
Can I take bupropion during pregnancy?It is not known if bupropion may harm an unborn baby. Though limited, there is some data showing that bupropion can affect the development of the unborn baby’s heart. Discuss with your doctor if you plan to get pregnant. You should not start or stop bupropion without consulting your doctor first; your doctor will be able to evaluate the risks and the benefits of bupropion with you. Untreated depression during pregnancy can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, and other adverse outcomes. |
What dosages are available for Bupropion?Bupropion is available in the following strengths: 75 mg | 100 mg | 150 mg | 200 mg | 300 mg | 450 mg. This drug is available in the following forms: Oral Tablet. Make sure to follow your prescription regimen according to your doctor’s instructions. |
What is the price of Bupropion without insurance?Without insurance, Bupropion can be as high as $216.99 (generic), but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $25.56 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. |
What is the price of Bupropion with insurance?Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on Bupropion—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins. You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for Lisinopril. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. |
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