Bupropion

Bupropion doses should be taken whole and never crushed, divided, or chewed. Take doses at the same time each day. When taking divided doses, separate doses by at least 8 hours.

Typical Dosage Recommendation:

Aplenzin treatment is initiated at 174 mg/day taken as a single morning dose. An increase can be made to the target dose after the first four days of treatment. The target dose is 348 mg/day taken once daily. The maximum dosage is 522 mg/day, which may be taken after several weeks of treatment.

Wellbutrin is given to adults for the treatment of depression at a dose of 300 mg/day, given three times per day (100 mg at a time). It is recommended when starting treatment with bupropion to begin with 100 mg given twice daily (for a total of 200 mg/day). It may be gradually increased until the dosage of 300 mg/day is reached no sooner than the third day after beginning treatment. The maximum dosage of Wellbutrin is 450 mg/day.

Wellbutrin SR is a sustained release tablet. The initial dosage is 150 mg twice daily. This can be increased after the fourth day. The maximum dosage for the sustained-release tablet is 200 mg, twice daily (400 mg/day).

Wellbutrin XL is an extended release tablet. Initial treatment should begin at 150 mg/day taken as a single dose in the morning. Dosing may be increased to 300 mg/day taken as a single dose in the morning as soon as the fourth day of treatment. For patients who require a higher dosage, 450 mg/day may be given as a single dose after several weeks of treatment.

Zyban is typically given at a starting dose of 150 mg daily. After the first three days of treatment, the dosage can be increased to the 300 mg/day recommended dose (taken in two 150 mg doses). Doses above 300 mg/day should not be used for the cessation of smoking. Treatment should begin while the patient is still smoking, since it takes a week to build up levels of bupropion in the bloodstream. Treatment should be continued for 7 to 12 weeks. A patient who successfully quits smoking within 7 to 12 weeks should be considered for continuing treatment with bupropion. It is important that patients receive counseling and support throughout treatment and for a period of time after treatment.

Missing a Dose:

If you miss a dose of bupropion, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule. Always allow the full amount of time between doses. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.

Overdosing:

Overdosing on bupropion may include reactions such as:

• Seizure
• Hallucinations
• Muscle stiffness
• Fainting
• Shallow breathing
• Loss of consciousness
• Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
• Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)