bupropion (cont.)
PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of bupropion in
pregnant
women. In one study, there was no difference between bupropion and other
antidepressants in the occurrence of birth defects. Bupropion should only be
used in pregnancy if the benefit outweighs the potential risk.
NURSING MOTHERS: Bupropion is secreted in
breast milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects associated with bupropion
are agitation, dry mouth, insomnia, headache,
nausea, constipation, and tremor.
In some people, the agitation or insomnia is most marked shortly after starting
therapy. Some patients may experience weight loss. Uncommonly, patients may
experience manic episodes or hallucinations. Four of every 1000 persons who
receive bupropion in doses less than 450 mg/day experience seizures. When doses
exceed 450 mg/day, the risk increases ten-fold. Other risk factors for seizures
include past injury to the head and medications which can lower the threshold
for seizures. (See drug interactions.)
Antidepressants increased the risk of
suicidal thinking and behavior
(suicidality) in short-term studies in
children and
adolescents with depression
and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of bupropion or any
other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the
clinical need. Patients who are started on therapy should be closely observed
for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 11/19/2007
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder - Read about posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (nightmares, flashbacks), causes (war, traumatic events), effects (depression, suicide) and treatment (medication, therapy).
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Depression RSS