What do you know about Bupropion ?

Bupropion dosage is a prescription medication primarily used for treating depression and as a smoking cessation aid. It is also used for other conditions such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and sometimes as an adjunct in treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Here’s a summary of its key features:

1. Mechanism of Action:

• Bupropion dosage is classified as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). It works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which helps regulate mood and behavior.
• Unlike many antidepressants, it does not affect serotonin levels directly, which makes it different from drugs like SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline).

2. Common Uses:

• Depression: Bupropion dosage is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It is sold under brand names like Wellbutrin and Aplenzin.
• Smoking cessation: Under the brand name Zyban, it helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to quit smoking.

3. Benefits:

• Weight neutral: Unlike some antidepressants that may cause weight gain, bupropion is more likely to lead to weight loss or be weight-neutral.

4. Side Effects:

• Insomnia: Because it has a stimulating effect, it can cause trouble sleeping, especially if taken too late in the day.
• Anxiety: Some people experience heightened anxiety, especially at the beginning of treatment.
• Dry mouth, headaches, dizziness: These are common side effects, but they often decrease with time.
• Seizure risk: Bupropion carries a seizure risk, especially at higher doses or in people with a history of seizures, eating disorders (like anorexia or bulimia), or alcohol/substance abuse.
• Agitation or jitteriness: This can occur, particularly when starting the medication.

5. Contraindications:

• Individuals with a seizure disorder, a history of bulimia or anorexia nervosa, or those undergoing sudden alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal should avoid bupropion due to the increased risk of seizures.

6. Drug Interactions:

• Bupropion dosage can interact with other medications, particularly those that lower the seizure threshold, such as antipsychotics, some antidepressants, or stimulants.

7. Dosage Forms:

• Immediate-release (IR): Requires multiple doses per day.
• Sustained-release (SR): Usually taken twice a day.
• Extended-release (XL): Taken once daily, providing longer-lasting effects.