Learning library · Medication education
BupropionAn activating option
An antidepressant that works differently — often more activating, with a different side-effect profile — and who it may suit.
What bupropion is
Bupropion is an antidepressant that works differently from SSRIs and SNRIs. It's used to treat depression, to help prevent seasonal depression, episodes that come back at the same time each year, and, under another brand name, to help people quit smoking.
Because it's the same medicine under each name, never take two bupropion products at the same time. This video is general education. Your own plan is something you and your provider decide together.
How it works
Scientists don't fully understand how bupropion helps depression. It's thought to work mainly through two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine, rather than serotonin.
Like other antidepressants, it takes time. Benefits on mood usually build over several weeks, so give it a fair chance, and keep track of how you feel in the Daily log in your portal.
Is it a good fit?
Because it works differently, its side effects are different too, and for some people it's a better fit than other antidepressants. Your provider can help you weigh the options.
It isn't right for everyone. Tell your provider if you've ever had a seizure, a serious head injury, an eating disorder like bulimia or anorexia, or bipolar disorder, or if you drink heavily. These can make bupropion less safe.
Side effects
Common side effects include trouble sleeping, dry mouth, headache, nausea, and feeling restless or shaky. Many ease with time, so mention any that bother you.
Bupropion can raise blood pressure, so your provider may check yours. Alcohol can make its side effects worse, so talk with your provider about drinking.
Seizures and other warnings
Bupropion can cause seizures, and the risk is higher at higher doses. Take it exactly as prescribed. Suddenly stopping alcohol or a sedative like a benzodiazepine can also raise the risk, so talk with your provider first. If you have a seizure, get emergency help.
Like all antidepressants, it carries a warning that in children, teens, and young adults under twenty-five, it can increase suicidal thoughts or actions, especially early on or after a dose change. At any age, contact your provider right away about new or worsening depression, agitation, or unusual changes in mood or behavior.
If you're in crisis, call or text 988, any time, day or night.
Working together
If it isn't helping, or the side effects bother you, don't change how you take it on your own. Keep your follow-up visits, and use Messages in your portal for questions in between.
Everything here is general information, not medical advice for you. Talk with your provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medicine.
3 min · captions with the CC button · 6 chapters · animated diagrams