WARNING

Risks of Taking Auvelity:

• Seizures: Auvelity contains bupropion, which can increase the risk of seizures, especially at higher doses or in individuals with certain medical conditions.
• High Blood Pressure: The medication can elevate blood pressure, particularly in people with pre-existing hypertension.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Combining Auvelity with other drugs that affect serotonin levels can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
• Mood Changes: It may cause mood changes, including increased depression or suicidal thoughts, particularly in young adults.
• Allergic Reactions: Potential for serious allergic reactions, including rash, itching, or swelling.
• Drug Interactions: Auvelity can interact with other medications, leading to serious side effects.
• Dizziness and Drowsiness: These side effects can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.

Always consult a healthcare provider for a full understanding of the risks and appropriate monitoring while taking Auvelity.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Auvelity is a prescription medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It is a combination of two active ingredients: dextromethorphan and bupropion. The medication works by modulating neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Auvelity is indicated for the treatment of MDD in adults. It can help improve mood, energy levels, and overall sense of well-being by balancing certain natural chemicals in the brain.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosage and administration of Auvelity would depend on the specific formulation and the condition being treated. However, general guidelines for taking medications apply:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always take Auvelity exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Dosage: The dosage of each medication within Auvelity would be tailored to the individual patient’s needs based on factors such as age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
• Administration: Typically, medications like these are taken orally with water. They may be taken with or without food depending on the specific instructions provided.
• Duration of Treatment: The duration of treatment with Auvelity would be determined by the prescribing healthcare provider. It’s important not to stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially with antidepressants like bupropion.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits with your doctor are important to monitor your response to treatment and to watch for any potential side effects or interactions.

As with any medication, it’s crucial to discuss potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Auvelity. This ensures that it is the right choice for your specific medical needs.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses could include:

• Anxiety Disorders: Some patients with anxiety might benefit from medications that influence neurotransmitter activity.
• Neuropathic Pain: Medications like bupropion, one of the components of Auvelity, have been used in treating neuropathic pain.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Medical History: Before taking Auvelity or any medication containing dextromethorphan and bupropion, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past or present health conditions.
• Interactions: Both dextromethorphan and bupropion can interact with other medications, supplements, or substances. It’s essential to disclose all other medications you are taking to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
• Side Effects: Be aware of possible side effects associated with dextromethorphan and bupropion, such as nausea, headache, dizziness, insomnia, or changes in mood. Contact your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the risks and benefits of taking Auvelity if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as both medications may have implications for fetal development or nursing infants.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may need to monitor you closely while taking Auvelity to ensure it is working effectively and to watch for any adverse effects.
• Withdrawal: Bupropion should not be stopped abruptly without medical advice, as sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the use of any medication, including Auvelity or a hypothetical combination containing dextromethorphan and bupropion. This ensures safe and effective treatment tailored to your individual health needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with dextromethorphan and bupropion. However, it’s advisable to maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as alcohol can interact with bupropion and increase the risk of side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It When You Remember: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Do Not Double Up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. This can increase the risk of side effects.
• Notify Your Doctor: If you frequently forget doses or have difficulty sticking to the prescribed schedule, discuss this with your doctor. They may provide strategies or alternative dosing schedules to help you manage your medication regimen effectively.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Since Auvelity is not a recognized medication, I’ll outline potential side effects that could be associated with its hypothetical components, dextromethorphan and bupropion:

Potential Side Effects of Dextromethorphan:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Constipation
• Confusion or hallucinations (especially at high doses)

Potential Side Effects of Bupropion:

• Insomnia
• Dry mouth
• Agitation or anxiety
• Tremors
• Increased sweating
• Appetite changes
• Seizures (rare, but more likely at higher doses)

Serious Side Effects (Both Components):

• Allergic reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Serotonin syndrome: This is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, hallucinations, coma, fast heart rate, changes in blood pressure, fever, excessive sweating, muscle stiffness, or twitching. It can occur if dextromethorphan and bupropion are used together with other medications that increase serotonin levels.
• High blood pressure (hypertension): Bupropion can sometimes increase blood pressure, which may require monitoring, especially in individuals with pre-existing hypertension.
• Psychiatric effects: Bupropion has been associated with mood changes, agitation, aggression, suicidal thoughts, and behavior in some individuals, particularly in younger patients.

It’s important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and the actual side effects can vary depending on individual factors such as dosage, duration of use, and overall health status. Always consult your healthcare provider for a complete list of potential side effects associated with any medication prescribed to you.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store medications containing dextromethorphan and bupropion according to the instructions on the prescription label or package insert. Typically, medications should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat unless otherwise specified.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired medications properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or others. Follow local regulations or guidelines for medication disposal, which may include returning them to a pharmacy or using a drug take-back program.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after taking Auvelity (or any medication containing dextromethorphan and bupropion), call emergency services (911 in the US) or your local poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include confusion, hallucinations, seizures, severe dizziness, irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness. Be prepared to provide information about the medication, dosage, and timing of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Take Auvelity exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor your response to treatment and check for any potential side effects or interactions.
• Avoid Alcohol: Bupropion may interact with alcohol, potentially increasing the risk of side effects such as seizures or changes in mood.
• Medical Alert: Inform healthcare providers (including dentists or emergency personnel) about all medications you are taking, including Auvelity, to avoid potential drug interactions or complications during medical procedures.
• Patient Information: Always keep information provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider about Auvelity, including potential side effects, precautions, and emergency contact numbers, readily accessible.

For specific guidance tailored to your situation or any medication prescribed to you, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide detailed information based on the specific formulation and your individual health needs.