Bupropion: Uses, Side Effects, Dosing & Buying Tips
Bupropion is one of the few antidepressants that also helps people stop smoking, but it isn’t right for everyone. Doctors prescribe it for major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and as a smoking cessation aid under the name Zyban. It works differently from SSRIs — bupropion increases dopamine and norepinephrine activity rather than boosting serotonin. That difference can help when other antidepressants cause sexual side effects or weight gain.
Common side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, headache, and increased anxiety during the first weeks. Most people tolerate it, but it can raise the risk of seizures, especially at higher doses or in people with eating disorders, head injury, or seizure history. Avoid bupropion if you have a seizure disorder or are actively bulimic or anorexic.
Interactions matter: combining bupropion with MAO inhibitors or drugs that lower seizure threshold can be dangerous. Alcohol can increase side effects and make mood swings worse, so talk to your doctor about drinking. How fast does it work? Some people notice better energy and motivation within two weeks, but mood improvement often takes four to six weeks.
For quitting smoking, treatment usually starts before your quit date and may continue for several months. Dosing depends on the formulation: immediate release is split multiple times daily, sustained release (SR) is usually 150 mg twice daily, and extended release (XL) is commonly 300 mg once daily. Never crush or chew extended release tablets. If side effects are severe, your prescriber may lower the dose or switch formulations. Stopping suddenly is not ideal—work with your prescriber to adjust or taper if needed.
Can you buy bupropion online? Yes, but buy only from licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Watch for red flags: sites that sell without a prescription, suspiciously low prices, no contact info, or poor reviews. Use pharmacy verification tools like NABP or look for clear licensing and pharmacist contact. Generic bupropion is widely available and cheaper than brand-name options like Wellbutrin. To save money, compare local pharmacy prices, use manufacturer coupons, or check discount programs and verified online pharmacies. Keep safety in mind: counterfeit medication can look real but may be ineffective or harmful.
Before starting bupropion, tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and medical conditions. Ask about pregnancy plans and breastfeeding since bupropion decisions depend on risks and benefits. Track your mood, sleep, and any side effects during the first two months and report concerns promptly. If you experience seizures, severe allergic reactions, chest pain, or worsening mood or suicidal thoughts, seek emergency care immediately. Bupropion can be a powerful option when chosen carefully, but safe use means following dosing rules, watching for risks, and using trusted pharmacies.
Quick practical tips
Keep a medication list and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Set phone reminders for doses. Store tablets in a cool dry place away from children. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember but avoid doubling doses. Ask your pharmacist about sleep-friendly dosing. Keep follow-up appointments regularly.
