Bupropion 300mg XL Tablets Should Not Be Cut in Half
Bupropion 300mg XL tablets should never be cut in half as this destroys the extended-release mechanism and can lead to potentially dangerous side effects including increased seizure risk. 1
Why Bupropion XL Cannot Be Split
The FDA drug label explicitly states that bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) should be "swallowed whole and not crushed, divided, or chewed" 1. This is due to several critical reasons:
- Cutting the tablet compromises the extended-release mechanism designed to deliver medication gradually over 24 hours
- Splitting causes immediate release of the full dose, which:
- Significantly increases seizure risk (the most serious adverse effect of bupropion)
- Can lead to toxic blood levels of the medication
- May cause severe side effects including anxiety, insomnia, and cardiovascular effects
Risks of Splitting Extended-Release Formulations
Research confirms that splitting extended-release medications like bupropion XL is dangerous 2, 3. While some tablets can be safely split, sustained-release or extended-release preparations should never be split "given the potential for alteration of the rate of drug release" 3.
Alternative Options
If you need a lower dose of bupropion, there are several safe alternatives:
Switch to a lower strength tablet: Bupropion XL is available in 150mg tablets that can be prescribed instead 1
Consider bupropion SR formulation: The sustained-release (SR) formulation is available in lower doses (100mg, 150mg) and is taken twice daily 4
Proper dose tapering: If discontinuing or reducing dose, the FDA recommends decreasing from 300mg to 150mg once daily before discontinuation 1
Consult your prescriber: Your healthcare provider can adjust your prescription to the appropriate dose and formulation
Special Considerations
Hepatic impairment: Patients with moderate to severe liver impairment should receive a maximum dose of 150mg every other day 1
Renal impairment: Dose reduction may be necessary for patients with kidney impairment 1
Seizure risk: Bupropion already carries a dose-dependent seizure risk at therapeutic doses (0.1% at ≤450 mg/day) 5. Splitting XL tablets would significantly increase this risk.
Conclusion
The evidence is clear and consistent across all sources - bupropion 300mg XL tablets must never be cut in half. If a dose adjustment is needed, consult your healthcare provider to switch to an appropriate lower-dose tablet or alternative formulation.