From the Guidelines
Bupropion is associated with several side effects, including dry mouth, insomnia, tremor, rash, headache, and urticaria, with typical dropout rates attributed to adverse effects ranging from 7% to 12%. The most common adverse effects associated with drug discontinuation in clinical trials with bupropion have been tremor, rash, headache, and urticaria 1. When used as a treatment for depression and as an aid to smoking cessation, bupropion SR has been associated with a small increased incidence of seizures (rate of 1/1000), particularly among those whose medical history suggests increased risk (eg, any prior seizure; structural brain lesion from previous stroke, tumor) 1.
Some key points to consider when prescribing bupropion include:
- Dry mouth and insomnia are dose-related and common side effects, but are not typically a cause for drug discontinuation 1
- Medication discontinuations attributed to adverse effects were reported in 25.9% of patients receiving 150 mg/d of bupropion SR and in 31.1% of those receiving 300 mg/d of bupropion SR 1
- Bupropion SR has been associated with a small increased incidence of seizures, particularly among those with a medical history that suggests increased risk 1
It is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of bupropion treatment and to monitor patients closely for any adverse effects, particularly seizures and allergic reactions. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing can help minimize side effects, and taking the medication early in the day can reduce insomnia. If you experience severe side effects like seizures, severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), or significant mood changes, seek immediate medical attention.
From the FDA Drug Label
Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) can cause serious side effects The most common side effects of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) include: • trouble sleeping • feeling anxious • stuffy nose • nausea • dry mouth • constipation • dizziness • joint aches Some people have even experienced suicidal thoughts when trying to quit smoking without medication. Sometimes quitting smoking can lead to worsening of mental health problems that you already have, such as depression Some people have had serious side effects while taking bupropion to help them quit smoking, including: New or worse mental health problems, such as changes in behavior or thinking, aggression, hostility, agitation, depression, or suicidal thoughts or actions
Bupropion Side Effects: The possible side effects of bupropion include trouble sleeping, feeling anxious, stuffy nose, nausea, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, and joint aches. Serious side effects can also occur, such as new or worse mental health problems, including changes in behavior or thinking, aggression, hostility, agitation, depression, or suicidal thoughts or actions 2. It is essential to discuss all the risks of treating depression and also the risks of not treating it with a healthcare provider 2.
- Common Side Effects:
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling anxious
- Stuffy nose
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Joint aches
- Serious Side Effects:
- New or worse mental health problems
- Changes in behavior or thinking
- Aggression
- Hostility
- Agitation
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
From the Research
Common Side Effects of Bupropion
Serious Side Effects of Bupropion
Factors Influencing Side Effects
- Dose: higher doses increase the risk of seizures and other side effects 3, 4, 6, 7
- Individual predisposition: certain individuals may be more prone to seizures or other side effects 3, 4, 7
- Combination with other medications: bupropion may interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects 5
Management of Side Effects
- Reduction in bupropion dose may help manage common side effects such as insomnia and dry mouth 3
- Monitoring for signs of serious side effects, such as seizures, is essential 3, 6
- Home management may be an option for patients with unintentional ingestions of bupropion, depending on the dose and individual factors 6