Bupropion is a prescription medicine used to treat depression and help people stop smoking. It works differently from many antidepressants by boosting norepinephrine and dopamine levels. That makes it useful when low energy, poor motivation, or sexual side effects from other antidepressants are issues. Doctors also use bupropion off-label for ADHD and certain cases of weight management.
Common brand names are Wellbutrin and Zyban. It comes in immediate-release (IR), sustained-release (SR), and extended-release (XL) forms. Dosing varies: for depression adults often start with 150 mg once daily and may go to 300 mg daily or 150 mg twice daily for SR; XL is usually 150-300 mg once daily. For smoking cessation typical SR dosing is 150 mg twice daily. Never exceed 450 mg per day because the seizure risk rises sharply at higher doses.
Side effects many people notice include dry mouth, headache, jitteriness, trouble sleeping, and sweating. Bupropion can cause weight loss in some users and may improve energy or focus. The most serious risk is seizures, especially in people with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or heavy alcohol use. Tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before starting bupropion.
Bupropion should not be taken within 14 days of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). It also interacts with some drugs and can reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen by blocking its activation. Mixing bupropion with other stimulants or excessive alcohol increases seizure risk. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy, discuss risks and benefits with your clinician.
Take XL once daily in the morning to reduce insomnia. If you take SR, space doses by at least eight hours and avoid taking late in the day. Swallow XL tablets whole; do not crush or split them. Expect several weeks before mood symptoms improve - up to four to six weeks for full effect. For smoking cessation, start bupropion a week before your quit date and plan to use it for at least seven to twelve weeks or longer if recommended.
Keep a list of all your medicines and share it with your prescriber. Report any new seizures, severe agitation, or thoughts of self-harm immediately. Don't stop bupropion suddenly without asking your doctor; they will advise how to taper if needed. Regular follow-up helps find the right dose and watch for side effects.
If you want a simple comparison: bupropion can boost energy and reduce sexual side effects, but it carries a higher seizure risk than many other antidepressants. That trade-off makes it a good option for some people and a poor choice for others. Talk openly with your provider about goals, past medical history, and other medications so you can decide whether bupropion fits your plan.
Many people need 1-2 follow-ups in the first month. Blood tests are not usually required but check-ins help adjust dose and spot side effects. If cost is a concern, ask about generic bupropion or patient assistance programs today.
