From the Research
Bupropion and QT Interval Prolongation
- Bupropion has been associated with QT interval prolongation, particularly in cases of overdose 1, 2, 3, 4.
- A study using the patch-clamp technique found that bupropion is an I(Kr) blocker, which can lead to QT prolongation 2.
- Another study reported a case of a 14-year-old female who ingested 15 g of extended-release bupropion, resulting in agitation, status epilepticus, prolonged QT, and pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia 1.
- However, a cross-sectional study found no evidence of a "QTc-sparing" effect of bupropion, and no difference in QTc between citalopram and other antidepressants, including bupropion 5.
Cardiotoxicity Associated with Bupropion
- Bupropion has been linked to cardiotoxicity, including QT prolongation, QRS widening, and cardiac arrhythmias 1, 2, 3, 4.
- A case report described a 17-year-old male who developed a widened QRS and a prolonged QTc interval after an overdose of ziprasidone and bupropion 3, 4.
- The cardiotoxic effects of bupropion are thought to be due to its I(Kr)-blocking effect and its ability to inhibit gap junctional intercellular communication 2.