From the Research
Bupropion can potentially contribute to heart failure in certain individuals, though it is not a common side effect, and patients with pre-existing heart disease, hypertension, or other cardiovascular risk factors should use it with caution and under close medical supervision, as evidenced by a recent study 1 that found increasing age, seizures, QRS widening, and QTc prolongation were associated with adverse cardiovascular events in bupropion exposures. This antidepressant medication, sold under brand names like Wellbutrin and Zyban, may increase blood pressure and heart rate in some patients, which could exacerbate existing cardiovascular conditions or potentially contribute to heart failure in susceptible individuals. Some key points to consider when taking bupropion include:
- The risk appears to be dose-dependent, with higher doses potentially carrying greater cardiovascular risk than lower doses, although the exact dose-response relationship is not well established 2.
- If you're taking bupropion and experience symptoms like shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, swelling in the legs or ankles, or irregular heartbeat, seek medical attention promptly.
- The mechanism behind bupropion's cardiovascular effects relates to its action on norepinephrine, which can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and affect heart function 3.
- Your doctor should monitor your blood pressure and heart rate regularly while you're on this medication, especially during dose adjustments, as recommended by recent studies 1, 3. It's essential to weigh the potential benefits of bupropion against the potential risks, particularly in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, and to closely monitor patients for any signs of cardiovascular adverse effects, as suggested by recent research 1, 3.