Like all medicines, bupropion can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.
Increased risk of seizures
Bupropion can increase the risk of seizures. This happens in about one in 1,000 people who take bupropion. Although this is rare, it can be serious, especially if it occurs when you are driving or operating machinery. The risk of a seizure is increased if you:
- take more than 2 tablets per day
- have had a head injury
- drink a lot of alcohol
- are taking medicines that can cause fits, such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, antimalarials, tramadol, theophylline, corticosteroids and some antihistamines
- have diabetes and are being treated with insulin or medicines.
Other side effects
| Side effects |
What should I do? |
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Feeling sick (nausea)
- Headache
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- These are quite common when you first start taking bupropion and usually go away with time.
- Tell your doctor if you are finding they bother you.
- Read about treatments for dry mouth.
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- Loss of appetite – not wanting to eat because food tastes different
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- Try eating or drinking small but frequent meals.
- Avoid eating in an environment with strong smells.
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- Sleep problems, difficulty falling asleep
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- This is common when you first start taking bupropion but goes away with time.
- Avoid taking your dose at bedtime. Take it early in the evening, but if you are taking 2 doses a day remember to leave at least 8 hours between doses.
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- Feeling sleepy, drowsy or tired during the day
- Poor concentration
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- Be careful when driving or using tools until you know how this medicine affects you.
- You will have a greater risk of falls and injuries, especially if you are older. Tell your doctor if you are concerned.
- Do not drink alcohol.
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- Changes in behaviours or thinking
- Mood swings
- Feeling anxious
- Depression (new or worsening)
- Thoughts of suicide
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- These are rare but serious side effects.
- Tell your doctor immediately or ring Healthline 0800 611 116.
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- Signs of a severe allergic reaction such skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, face and mouth or difficulty breathing
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- Stop using bupropion.
- Tell your doctor immediately or ring Healthline 0800 611 116.
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| Did you know that you can report a side effect to a medicine to CARM (Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring)? Report a side effect to a product.(external link) |
