Bupropion: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions

# Understanding Bupropion Bupropion is a medication that doctors prescribe to help people with depression and to help smokers quit smoking. It works by changing the levels of certain chemicals in your brain that affect your mood and behavior. Unlike some other depression medicines, bupropion can actually help people feel more energized and focused rather than making them sleepy. It comes in different forms that you take by mouth, usually once or twice a day depending on which type your doctor prescribes. There are some important safety things to know about bupropion. This medicine can increase your risk of seizures, especially if you take high doses, so tell your doctor if you have ever had seizures or head injuries. It's also important to let your doctor know about all other medicines you take, because bupropion can interact with them—for example, it can increase the levels of certain depression and antipsychotic medicines in your body. You should never suddenly stop taking bupropion without talking to your doctor first. Like other depression medicines, bupropion may increase thoughts of suicide in young people, so watch for changes in mood or behavior and talk to your doctor right away if anything seems wrong.