Bupropion Hydrochloride

Bupropion Hydrochloride (also known as Wellbutrin, Zyban, Voxra, Budeprion, or Aplenzin; formerly known as amfebutamone) is an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid. Although this particular drug is used to treat depression it is generally used as a aid for people who are trying to give up smoking and should only be prescribed for smokers who commit to a target stop date. Nicotine replacement therapy and bupropion are effective aids to smoking cessation for those smoking more than 10 cigarettes a day.

Treatment would start while you were still smoking and the target stop date would be decided upon in the first two weeks of treatment. Receiving advice and encouragement throughout treatment and beyond should also be given. If you fail to meet your target date and you are still smoking after 7 weeks of treatment bupropion would be stopped. A second prescription could be issued and then only if the smoker demonstrates a continuing attempt to stop smoking.

The drug has proved to be an effective aid, however nicotine replacement therapy has proven to be more popular. There are some health problems that would stop the use of this drug, unless the potential benefit of smoking cessation clearly outweighs the risk. These are: if you have a history of eating disorders, or those who are experiencing withdrawal from benzodiazepine or alcohol. It should not be used by people with manic depression or psychosis as there is a risk of mania developing. Extreme caution is advised when prescribing bupropion to patients receiving other medication known to lower the seizure threshold.

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Quick Guide

• Antidepressant/Nicotine withdrawal with overdose danger – HIGH.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES
• Available as generic – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol may increase sedative effects of Bupropion.
• Available as generic – NO. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted side effects.

Common: Insomnia, Poor concentration, Headache, dizziness, Tremors, Nausea, Vomiting, Rash, Fever.
Rare: Fainting, Palpitations, confusion, Anxiety, Seizures, Depression.

You should be aware that some of the side-effects experienced may be due to the withdrawal effects of nicotine and not the drug bupropion itself.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist/pharmacist.

Prolonged Use

Bupropion is normally used for up to 9 weeks if it is being taken as an aid to cease tobacco smoking. Your progression would be checked after 2 to 3 weeks and treatment would only continue if it was having some effect.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Because this drug can cause dizziness and may impair concentration driving, hazardous work should be avoided until you learn how this drug affects you. You should avoid alcohol as this will increase the sedative effects of bupropion.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

As the safety of this drug has not been established it should not be used during pregnancy. The drug passes into the breast milk and the manufacturers advice is to avoid using Bupropion if you are breast feeding.

is classified as a Pregnancy Category C Medicine, by the US. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the foetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60’s & Children

It is possible for the older generation to be sensitive to the drug’s effect. A reduced dose may be necessary. Bupropion is not recommended for use by children.

Overdose

If for what ever reason you find you have unintentionally taken an extra dose it would be unlikely to give reason for concern. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms or you or someone you know has taken a large over-dose you should seek medical help immediately.

Go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards giving the right kind of help without delay.

Other Medication Reactions

Because a wide range of drugs can cause seizures when taken with bupropion you should check with your doctor if you are taken other medicines. Drugs such as phenytoin and carbamazepine (antiepileptics) may reduce the blood levels (plasma) and effects of bupropion. Valproate inhibits the metabolism of bupropion. Drugs including ritonavir, amantadine and levodopa increase the side effects when taken with bupropion. If you have been receiving treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) the manufacturers of bupropion suggest a period of 2 weeks should elapse between your cessation of MAOI medication and the taking of bupropion.

Factors that increase the risk of seizures include concomitant administration of drugs that can lower the seizure threshold (e.g.antidepressants, antimalarials [such as mefloquine and chloroquine], antipsychotics, quinolones, sedating antihistamines, systemic corticosteroids, theophylline, tramadol)

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Ideally you would have already checked with your doctor. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

do not stop taking this drug without first speaking with your doctor. It is possible he may want to taper your dose (reduce slowly)

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

It could take up to 4 weeks to feel the full effects of this drug. The duration of this drug in the system is up to 12 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted medication / drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines / drugs to your pharmacist.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.