Does bupropion (Wellbutrin) cause orchialgia (testicular pain)?

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Last updated: March 15, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Bupropion is not commonly associated with testicular pain, and there is limited evidence to suggest a direct link between the two, however, if you experience testicular pain while taking bupropion, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly. The mechanism by which bupropion might cause testicular pain is not fully understood, but it could relate to changes in nerve signaling or blood flow. Other genital or urinary side effects that might occur with bupropion include sexual dysfunction, urinary retention, or changes in libido 1.

Potential Side Effects

  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Urinary retention
  • Changes in libido
  • Testicular pain (although rare and not well-documented)

It's essential to note that the provided studies do not directly address the question of whether bupropion causes testicular pain. However, a study on the effects of bupropion on sexual functioning and nocturnal erections in healthy men found no differences in self-reported sexual function or penile rigidity in subjects taking bupropion compared to those taking placebo 1. Another study on the efficacy of sustained-release bupropion in neuropathic pain found that bupropion may be an effective and tolerated treatment for some patients with neuropathic pain, but it did not specifically address testicular pain 2.

Recommendation

If you experience testicular pain while taking bupropion, do not stop taking the medication suddenly without medical guidance, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. Instead, contact your healthcare provider, who may recommend adjusting your dosage, switching medications, or additional evaluation to determine if another underlying condition is causing the pain.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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