Bupropion

Bupropion is used in the treatment of depression. It is also used to help people stop smoking.

Bupropion contains Bupropion, primarily used in treating depression. In addition to this, it is also used by people who are addicted to smoking. It works by increasing serotonin levels. Serotonin is a chemical messenger in the brain responsible for improving mood and physical symptoms of depression. Hence, it helps to improve mood.

Certain side-effects of Bupropion can be dealt with simple tips such as if you experience dry mouth, you can chew sugar-free gum or take sugar-free sweets. If you are sweating a lot while taking Bupropion, wear loose clothing and use a strong antiperspirant. If you cannot sleep after taking Bupropion, prefer to take it in the morning to avoid sleep disturbances. If you feel sleepy after taking Bupropion, avoid taking it in the evening and limit your alcohol intake. If you feel tired or weak after taking Bupropion, sit or lie down until you feel better. If you feel that the side effects are worsening, please consult your doctor.

Yes, however, there may be an increased risk of experiencing suicidal tendencies in children, adolescents and young adults. This medicine is not recommended for children less than 18 years of age.

Taking Bupropion in more than the recommended dose can cause unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, tremor, agitation, convulsion, coma, nausea, vomiting, changes in heart rhythm, decreased blood pressure and change in body fluid/salt balance.

In elderly patients, the risk of side effects is more if you are taking Bupropion. For the patients who are elderly, dose adjustment might be required, or your doctor might prescribe any other medication safe for the elderly.

Bupropion is not advised in cases if you are allergic to Bupropion, have epilepsy (seizure disorder or fits), diabetes, sexual disorders, liver or kidney disease, any heart problems, bleeding or clotting disorders, or currently taking medicines for depression known as MAO inhibitors (such as Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline) or problems with alcohol or other prescription drugs. It should not be given to a person having a low heart rate along with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting, pregnant women, trying to get pregnant, breastfeeding, or having eye problems such as glaucoma. In diabetics, it can cause difficulty in keeping stable blood sugar levels.

No, Bupropion does not help with anxiety and sleeplessness. It is used to treat depression.

Though Bupropion may have a low risk of addiction, Bupropion does not cause addiction if taken in the dose and duration prescribed by the doctor.

Factors that can increase the chances of seizures with Bupropion are sudden and large increments in dose, bulimia or anorexia nervosa (eating disorder), history of head trauma or prior seizure, central nervous system (CNS) tumour, the presence of severe hepatic cirrhosis, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold.

It is very rare to develop eye problems like redness, pain, and blurred vision with Bupropion. Please consult the doctor if you experience any eye problems during treatment with Bupropion.

Avoid exceeding the prescribed dose and use Bupropion cautiously with medicines that might lower the seizure threshold such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, theophylline, and systemic steroids.

Bupropion may cause high blood pressure, therefore, let the doctor know if you have hypertension or if you are taking medicines used to treat high blood pressure.

Bupropion may cause side effects such as nausea, headache, dizziness, vomiting, insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), fever, constipation, sweating, allergic reaction, impaired concentration, and dry mouth. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to consult your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.