From the Guidelines
Bupropion should be taken in the morning to minimize the risk of insomnia. According to the most recent and highest quality study, the recommended titration schedule for naltrexone-bupropion ER begins with 1 tablet daily in the morning, followed by weekly escalation to 1 tablet twice per day, then 2 tablets in the morning and 1 in the afternoon, until the maintenance dose of 2 tablets twice per day is reached 1. The study emphasizes that the second dose should not be taken late in the day to minimize the risk of insomnia.
Key Considerations
- The medication works by affecting neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, which can increase alertness and energy levels, making morning dosing preferable to avoid sleep disturbances.
- Taking bupropion earlier in the day allows these stimulating effects to diminish before bedtime, reducing the likelihood of insomnia and other sleep-related issues.
- If significant side effects occur with morning dosing, patients should consult their healthcare provider about adjusting the timing, but never change their medication schedule without professional guidance.
Administration Guidelines
- For sustained-release formulations, doses are generally taken twice daily, morning and mid-day.
- Extended-release formulations are taken once daily in the morning.
- It is essential to take bupropion with or without food consistently as directed by the healthcare provider to maintain its efficacy and minimize potential side effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) should be administered in the morning and may be taken with or without food. The recommended starting dose for MDD is 150 mg once daily in the morning. The recommended starting dose for SAD is 150 mg once daily. After 7 days of dosing, the dose may be increased to the target dose of 300 mg once daily in the morning.
Bupropion Administration Time: Bupropion should be taken in the morning. It can be taken with or without food. 2
From the Research
Bupropion Administration Timing
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest whether bupropion should be taken in the morning or at night.
Dosage and Administration
- The studies suggest that bupropion is typically administered in a divided schedule, with a maximum daily dose of 450 mg/day 3 or a fixed dose of 300 mg/day for smoking cessation 4, 5, 6, 7.
- The timing of administration is not specified in the studies, but it is generally recommended to take bupropion with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
- The studies do not provide information on the optimal timing of bupropion administration in relation to sleep or daily activities.
Side Effects and Considerations
- Common side effects of bupropion include dry mouth, insomnia, and nausea 3, 4, 7.
- Bupropion may also increase the risk of seizures, particularly in patients with a history of seizure disorders 3, 4, 7.
- Patients with anxiety or depression may experience improvements in symptoms with bupropion treatment 5, 6.