Butrin XL (150mg) 30 Tablets

Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that exerts its effects primarily through the inhibition of norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake in the central nervous system. By blocking the reuptake transporters for these neurotransmitters, bupropion increases their synaptic concentrations, which enhances noradrenergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. Additionally, bupropion has mild antagonistic effects on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.

Bupropion dosage recommendations are:

• Smoking cessation - Days 1 to 6 - 150 mg once daily, Day 7 - 150 mg twice daily, at least 8 hours apart, not near bedtime, Weeks 3 to 9 - 150 mg twice daily, Elderly (over 65 years of age), patients with liver or kidney disease, or higher risk of fits - 150 mg once daily, may be advised to stop taking Zyban gradually after 7–9 weeks if smoking cessation is not achieved

If you take too many bupropion tablets, you may be at a higher risk of experiencing seizures or other side effects. Do not wait, contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.

If you miss a dose, wait and take your next tablet at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

Take your bupropion tablets at least 8 hours apart to minimize the risk of side effects. Avoid taking bupropion close to bedtime, as it may interfere with your sleep. You can take bupropion with or without food, but make sure to swallow the tablets whole. Do not chew, crush, or split the tablets, as this can cause the medication to be released too quickly into your system, increasing the likelihood of side effects, including seizures.

Don’t take Bupropion:

• If you are allergic to bupropion or any of the other ingredients.
• If you are taking any other medicines containing bupropion (such as Wellbutrin, used to treat depression).
• If you have a condition that causes fits (seizures), such as epilepsy, or a history of fits.
• If you have an eating disorder, or had one in the past (e.g., bulimia or anorexia nervosa).
• If you have severe liver problems, such as cirrhosis.
• If you have a brain tumor.
• If you are a heavy drinker and have recently stopped drinking alcohol or plan to stop while taking bupropion.
• If you have recently stopped taking sedatives or medicines for anxiety (especially benzodiazepines or similar), or plan to stop them while taking bupropion.
• If you have bipolar disorder (extreme mood swings), as bupropion could trigger an episode of this illness.
• If you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) for depression or Parkinson’s disease, or have taken them in the last 14 days; timing may vary for some MAOIs, so consult your doctor.

Drug interactions with bupropion include:

• Other antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs) (may increase risk of seizures and serotonin syndrome)
• CYP2B6 inhibitors (e.g., ticlopidine) (may increase bupropion levels)
• CYP2B6 inducers (e.g., rifampin) (may decrease bupropion levels)
• Antiepileptics (e.g., phenytoin) (may increase the risk of seizures)
• Alcohol (may increase the risk of seizures)
• Stimulants (e.g., amphetamines) (may increase risk of cardiovascular side effects and seizures)
• Other medications affecting the seizure threshold (e.g., clozapine) (may increase seizure risk)
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) (no significant interaction, but monitor for unusual bleeding)
• Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine) (may enhance sedative effects)

The food interactions that should be considered while using bupropion are:

• Avoid alcohol to reduce the risk of serious side effects
• High-fat meals can affect absorption and effectiveness
• Caffeine may increase side effects like anxiety
• High-sugar foods may impact effectiveness and mood stability

Bupropion should be stored properly to maintain its effectiveness. Store the product at a temperature between 15°C and 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat, light, and moisture. Ensure the container is tightly closed to prevent contamination. For safety purposes, keep Bupropion out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion. It is advisable to avoid storing the product in humid or warm areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens. If you have any questions or concerns about proper storage, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance to ensure the product’s quality and safety.