Bupropion — what it does and how to use it safely

Bupropion is a common prescription medicine sold as Wellbutrin (for depression) and Zyban (for quitting smoking). People like it because it can boost energy and motivation and usually causes fewer sexual side effects than SSRIs. But it’s not right for everyone — especially if you have seizures or an eating disorder. Here’s a plain, useful guide to what to expect and how to stay safe.

Quick facts and common uses

Doctors prescribe bupropion mainly for depressive disorders and to help people stop smoking. It’s also used off-label for ADHD and to counter sexual side effects from SSRIs. Formulations include immediate-release (IR), sustained-release (SR), and extended-release (XL). Typical starting doses are low and then increased after a few days:

- Depression (XL): often 150 mg once daily for a few days, then 150–300 mg once daily. Don't exceed prescribed dose; max varies by product. - Smoking cessation (SR): commonly 150 mg twice daily starting one week before quit date and continuing for several weeks.

Before you start: safety and practical tips

Know these key safety points before taking bupropion. First, it lowers the seizure threshold — that means people with seizures, brain injury, or eating disorders like bulimia should generally avoid it. Electrolyte problems from vomiting or bingeing can increase seizure risk. Second, avoid starting bupropion if you’ve used an MAOI in the last 14 days; the gap matters.

Take bupropion in the morning to cut down on insomnia. If you have the XL tablet, swallow it whole — don’t crush or chew. Drink alcohol cautiously; heavy drinking or suddenly stopping alcohol while on bupropion can raise seizure risk. Also tell your doctor about all medicines you take: bupropion can affect or be affected by other drugs (it inhibits CYP2D6), and it may interact with some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and tamoxifen.

Common side effects include dry mouth, trouble sleeping, headache, sweating, nausea, and jitteriness. Many people notice weight loss. Less common but serious issues to watch for are seizures and sudden mood changes, including worsening depression or suicidal thoughts — report these to your provider right away, especially in young adults.

During treatment, your doctor may check blood pressure (bupropion can raise it) and ask about mood and sleep. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to your next dose — don’t double up. If you plan pregnancy, breastfeeding, or have liver/kidney problems, talk to your prescriber about risks and alternatives.

If bupropion is working, you may see improvements in energy and focus within a couple of weeks, but full effects on mood often take 4–6 weeks. Keep talking with your clinician about how you feel and any side effects. Clear communication helps you get the benefit while minimizing risks.