From the Research
Wellbutrin (bupropion) can generally be used by patients with mitral valve prolapse, but individual assessment by a healthcare provider is necessary. There are no specific contraindications between Wellbutrin and mitral valve prolapse in most cases. However, since Wellbutrin can occasionally cause increased heart rate or blood pressure in some individuals, patients with mitral valve prolapse should be monitored, especially if they have symptoms like palpitations or if their condition is severe.
Key Considerations
- The typical dosing of Wellbutrin starts at 150 mg once daily for 3-7 days, then increases to 150 mg twice daily if tolerated, with a maximum dose of 450 mg per day depending on the formulation 1.
- Patients should report any unusual heart symptoms like racing heartbeat, chest pain, or dizziness to their doctor immediately.
- A study from 1991 found that bupropion did not cause significant conduction complications, did not exacerbate ventricular arrhythmias, had a low rate of orthostatic hypotension, and had no effect on pulse rate in patients with preexisting heart disease 2.
- The reason for caution is that both the medication and the heart condition can independently affect cardiac rhythm, so their combination requires appropriate monitoring, though most patients tolerate this combination without issues.
Monitoring and Precautions
- Patients with mitral valve prolapse should be closely monitored for any changes in their heart symptoms or condition while taking Wellbutrin.
- Healthcare providers should assess the individual patient's risk factors and medical history before prescribing Wellbutrin.
- The medication's effectiveness as an antidepressant has been supported by a systematic review and meta-analysis, which found that bupropion is generally well tolerated and has a unique pharmacology that may provide benefits for certain patients 1.