Generic Bupropion

Common Use
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is also prescribed as a smoking cessation aid under the brand name Zyban. Bupropion works by affecting the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, helping to improve mood, energy, and focus.

Dosage and Direction
Bupropion is typically taken once or twice daily depending on the formulation (immediate-release, sustained-release, or extended-release). It should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed, to avoid increased risk of side effects. Always take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and avoid taking doses too close together to reduce the risk of seizures.

Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have a history of seizures, eating disorders (like bulimia or anorexia), alcohol or drug abuse, or bipolar disorder. Bupropion may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Contraindications
Do not use bupropion if you have a seizure disorder, a current or past diagnosis of an eating disorder, or if you have recently stopped using alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives. It is also contraindicated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days. Avoid if you have hypersensitivity to bupropion or any ingredients in the product.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, headache, sweating, nausea, and dizziness. Serious side effects may include seizures, high blood pressure, mood changes, or allergic reactions. Seek immediate help if you experience chest pain, hallucinations, or difficulty breathing.

Drug Interaction
Bupropion may interact with MAOIs, antipsychotics, other antidepressants, and drugs that lower the seizure threshold. It may also affect blood levels of certain medications like digoxin. Inform your doctor about all prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products you are taking.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not take two doses at once. Maintain a consistent dosing schedule to avoid risks of side effects.

Overdose
An overdose of bupropion may cause seizures, confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, or loss of consciousness. In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is symptomatic and may involve hospitalization.

Storage
Store bupropion at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container and out of reach of children and pets. Do not use past the expiration date printed on the label.

Disclaimer
We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. The specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)