WARNING

Buproban, also known as bupropion, is a medication primarily used to treat depression and to help people quit smoking. Like any medication, it carries some risks. Here are a few:

• Seizures: Buproban can lower the seizure threshold, especially at higher doses. This risk is increased in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, or when combined with other medications that also lower the seizure threshold.
• Psychiatric Symptoms: Some people may experience worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts, or other psychiatric symptoms while taking buproban. It’s important to monitor mood and behavior closely, especially when starting the medication or changing the dosage.
• Adverse Reactions: Buproban can cause various adverse reactions, including insomnia, agitation, anxiety, dry mouth, headache, nausea, and constipation. These side effects are usually mild and transient but can be bothersome for some individuals.
• Interactions: Buproban can interact with other medications, potentially increasing or decreasing their effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbs you are taking before starting buproban.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to buproban, which can manifest as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Other Considerations: Buproban may not be suitable for everyone, including those with a history of eating disorders, seizures, or certain medical conditions. It’s essential to discuss your medical history thoroughly with your healthcare provider before starting buproban.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking buproban, and report any concerning symptoms or side effects promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Buproban, also known as bupropion, is prescribed for several purposes:

• Treatment of Depression: Buproban is commonly used as an antidepressant medication. It helps alleviate symptoms of depression by affecting the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine.
• Smoking Cessation: Buproban is also prescribed to help people quit smoking. It reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with nicotine addiction, making it easier for individuals to quit smoking successfully.

How should this medicine be used?

Buproban is typically taken orally in the form of extended-release tablets. The dosing regimen may vary depending on the condition being treated and individual factors, so it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. However, here are some general guidelines for how buproban should be used:

• Dosage: The recommended starting dose for depression is usually 150 mg once daily, which may be increased gradually up to a maximum of 450 mg per day if necessary. For smoking cessation, the initial dose is typically 150 mg once daily for the first three days, followed by 150 mg twice daily thereafter.
• Timing: Buproban is usually taken in the morning to minimize the risk of insomnia. If you are prescribed multiple doses per day, the second dose should be taken at least eight hours after the first dose to avoid excessive accumulation of the medication in your system.
• Swallow Whole: Buproban tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or split, as this can affect the release of the medication and increase the risk of side effects.
• Duration of Use: Continue taking buproban as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better. It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects to be realized, especially in the treatment of depression. Do not discontinue the medication abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your progress and adjust your dosage as needed. Be sure to attend all scheduled appointments and report any concerning symptoms or side effects promptly.

As with any medication, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and ask any questions you may have about how to use buproban safely and effectively.

Other uses for this medicine

Some of these off-label uses may include:

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Buproban is sometimes used off-label to help manage symptoms of ADHD in both children and adults. It can improve focus, attention, and impulse control in some individuals with ADHD.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Buproban may be prescribed off-label to alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons, typically winter.
• Bipolar Depression: In some cases, buproban may be used as an adjunctive treatment for bipolar depression, particularly when other antidepressants have not been effective or are not well-tolerated.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking buproban, it’s important to observe certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions such as seizures, eating disorders, liver or kidney problems, bipolar disorder, or a history of substance abuse.
• Suicide Risk: Buproban may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor closely for any changes in mood or behavior, particularly when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage.
• Seizure Risk: Buproban can lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures, especially at higher doses. This risk may be further elevated in individuals with a history of seizures or certain medical conditions. Use caution when prescribing buproban to these individuals and consider alternative treatments if necessary.
• Interactions: Buproban can interact with other medications, including other antidepressants, antipsychotics, and medications metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzymes. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of buproban during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking buproban.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking buproban, as it may increase the risk of seizures and other adverse effects.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of buproban, including insomnia, agitation, anxiety, dry mouth, headache, nausea, and constipation. Report any bothersome or concerning side effects to your healthcare provider.

By following these precautions and closely monitoring your response to treatment, you can minimize the risks associated with buproban and maximize its potential benefits for your specific condition. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding the use of buproban.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with buproban. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a healthy and balanced diet while taking any medication. Eating a nutritious diet can help support overall well-being and may complement the effects of the medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of buproban, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed dose unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Buproban, also known as bupropion, can cause various side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Common side effects include:

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is a common side effect of buproban. Taking the medication earlier in the day or adjusting the dosage may help mitigate this effect.
• Dry Mouth: Buproban can reduce saliva production, leading to a dry mouth sensation. Drinking water or using sugar-free gum or candy can help alleviate this symptom.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking buproban. This side effect is usually mild and transient but can be bothersome for some people.
• Nausea: Buproban may cause nausea or an upset stomach, especially when first starting the medication. Taking the medication with food or dividing the dose may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Agitation or Anxiety: Buproban can sometimes increase feelings of agitation or anxiety, particularly in individuals predisposed to these conditions. If these symptoms become severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider.
• Constipation: Buproban can lead to constipation in some individuals. Increasing dietary fiber intake, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity may help alleviate this symptom.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking buproban, especially when standing up quickly. Avoiding sudden changes in position can help minimize this side effect.
• Tremor: Buproban may cause trembling or shaking in the hands or other parts of the body, particularly at higher doses. This side effect is usually mild and temporary but should be monitored.
• Increased Heart Rate: Buproban can sometimes elevate heart rate or blood pressure, especially at higher doses. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should use caution when taking this medication.
• Weight Loss: Buproban is associated with weight loss in some individuals, which may be desirable for those trying to quit smoking but could be concerning for others. Monitoring weight regularly and discussing any significant changes with your healthcare provider is important.

It’s essential to report any bothersome or concerning side effects to your healthcare provider. In some cases, adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication may be necessary to manage side effects effectively while still achieving therapeutic benefits.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of buproban (bupropion):

• Storage: Store buproban tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing the medication in the bathroom or other areas prone to moisture. Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired buproban tablets properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or others. Follow local regulations for medication disposal, such as using drug take-back programs or community disposal sites. Do not flush buproban down the toilet unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose of buproban or experience severe symptoms such as seizures, loss of consciousness, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: If you believe someone has ingested buproban accidentally or inappropriately, contact your local poison control center or emergency services for guidance. Be prepared to provide information about the medication, dosage, and symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking buproban suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Your healthcare provider may gradually taper the dosage to minimize withdrawal effects.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring of your response to treatment and assessment of any potential side effects. Report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.
• Keep Medication Out of Reach: Keep buproban and all medications out of reach of children and pets. Store medication in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Follow Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, timing, and duration of treatment with buproban. Do not adjust your dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, that you are taking buproban. This includes disclosing any changes in your medication regimen or new medical conditions that may affect your treatment.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about proper storage, disposal, and emergency procedures, you can use buproban safely and effectively as prescribed by your healthcare provider.