Can bupropion cause a sensation of having food stuck in the throat?

Bupropion and Sensation of Food Stuck in the Throat

Yes, bupropion can cause a sensation of having food stuck in your throat, which is likely related to its known side effect of dry mouth. While not specifically listed as "globus sensation" in most guidelines, this medication can cause several throat and mouth-related side effects that could create this feeling.

Common Side Effects of Bupropion

• Dry mouth is one of the most common side effects of bupropion, occurring frequently in patients taking the medication 1
• Other oral/throat-related side effects include nausea, throat irritation, and gastrointestinal disturbances 1
• Xerostomia (dry mouth) can create a sensation of something stuck in the throat due to reduced saliva production and changes in swallowing mechanics 1

Mechanism Behind Throat Sensations

• Bupropion works as a dopamine/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that can affect various bodily functions, including salivary production 2
• The medication's anticholinergic properties can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth and throat discomfort 1
• This dryness can create a sensation similar to having food stuck in the throat (globus pharyngeus) 1

Management of This Side Effect

• Increasing water intake throughout the day can help manage dry mouth symptoms 1
• Taking medication with plenty of water may help reduce throat discomfort 1
• If the sensation is severe or persistent, dosage adjustment may be considered 1
• For persistent symptoms, consulting with your healthcare provider is recommended as this could potentially be related to:
  • Dose-related side effects (higher doses tend to have more pronounced side effects) 3
  • Timing of medication (taking bupropion in the morning rather than evening may help with some side effects) 4

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If the sensation is severe, persistent, or accompanied by difficulty swallowing, medical evaluation is warranted 1
• In rare cases, bupropion has been associated with more serious gastrointestinal effects that should be evaluated 5
• If you experience other symptoms like actual difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) rather than just the sensation, seek prompt medical attention 1

Important Considerations

• Side effects of bupropion are generally dose-dependent, with higher doses more likely to cause adverse effects 3
• Most side effects of bupropion are transient and often resolve without intervention 6
• The benefits of bupropion for depression or smoking cessation should be weighed against these side effects 1
• Discontinuation rates due to adverse effects with bupropion are relatively low (6-12%), suggesting most side effects are manageable 6

If this sensation persists or worsens, consult with your healthcare provider who may consider adjusting your dosage, switching medications, or recommending specific strategies to manage this side effect.