Bupropion Hydrochloride

FDA Drug Information • Also known as: Bupropion, Bupropion Hydrochloride, Bupropion Hydrochloride (Sr), Bupropion Hydrochloride (Xl),...

Brand Names
Bupropion, Bupropion Hydrochloride, Bupropion Hydrochloride (Sr), Bupropion Hydrochloride (Xl), Bupropion Hydrochloride Sr, Bupropion Hydrochloride Xl, Forfivo Xl, Wellbutrin Sr, Wellbutrin Xl
Route
ORAL
Dosage Form
TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE
Product Type
HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG

⚠ Boxed Warning (Black Box)

WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents and young adults taking antidepressants. ( 5.1 ) Monitor for worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. ( 5.1 ) SUICIDALITY AND ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term trials. These trials did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in subjects over age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressant use in subjects aged 65 and older [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . In patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy, monitor closely for worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Advise families and caregivers of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .

Description

11 DESCRIPTION Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets USP (SR), an antidepressant of the aminoketone class, is chemically unrelated to tricyclic, tetracyclic, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, or other known antidepressant agents. Its structure closely resembles that of diethylpropion; it is related to phenylethylamines. It is designated as (±)-1-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-[(1,1-dimethylethyl)amino]-1-propanone hydrochloride. The molecular weight is 276.2. The molecular formula is C 13 H 18 ClNO ∙ HCl. Bupropion hydrochloride, USP powder is white, crystalline, and highly soluble in water. It has a bitter taste and produces the sensation of local anesthesia on the oral mucosa. The structural formula is: Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets USP (SR) is supplied for oral administration as 100-mg (blue), 150-mg (purple), and 200-mg (pink), film-coated, sustained-release tablets. Each tablet contains the labeled amount of bupropion hydrochloride, USP and the inactive ingredients: cysteine hydrochloride, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, talc and titanium dioxide. In addition, the 100-mg tablet contains FD&C Blue No. 2 Lake, the 150-mg tablet contains FD&C Blue No. 2 Lake and FD&C Red No. 40 Lake, and the 200-mg tablet contains Iron Oxide Red and Ferrosoferric Oxide. Meet USP Dissolution Test 7. Chemical Structure

What Is Bupropion Hydrochloride Used For?

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM). The efficacy of bupropion in the treatment of a major depressive episode was established in two 4-week controlled inpatient trials and one 6-week controlled outpatient trial of adult subjects with MDD [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . The efficacy of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets in maintaining an antidepressant response for up to 44 weeks following 8 weeks of acute treatment was demonstrated in a placebo-controlled trial [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets are an aminoketone antidepressant, indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Starting dose: 150 mg/day. ( 2.1 ) General: Increase dose gradually to reduce seizure risk. ( 2.1 , 5.3 ) After 3 days, may increase the dose to 300 mg/day, given as 150 mg twice daily at an interval of at least 8 hours. ( 2.1 ) Usual target dose: 300 mg/day as 150 mg twice daily. ( 2.1 ) Maximum dose: 400 mg/day, given as 200 mg twice daily, for patients not responding to 300 mg/day. ( 2.1 ) Periodically reassess the dose and need for maintenance treatment. ( 2.1 ) Moderate to severe hepatic impairment: 100 mg daily or 150 mg every other day. ( 2.2 , 8.7 ) Mild hepatic impairment: Consider reducing the dose and/or frequency of dosing. ( 2.2 , 8.7 ) Renal impairment: Consider reducing the dose and/or frequency. ( 2.3 , 8.6 ) 2.1 General Instructions for Use To minimize the risk of seizure, increase the dose gradually [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, divided, or chewed. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets may be taken with or without food. The usual adult target dose for bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets is 300 mg/day, given as 150 mg twice daily. Initiate dosing with 150 mg/day given as a single daily dose in the morning. After 3 days of dosing, the dose may be increased to the 300-mg/day target dose, given as 150 mg twice daily. There should be an interval of at least 8 hours between successive doses. A maximum of 400 mg/day, given as 200 mg twice daily, may be considered for patients in whom no clinical improvement is noted after several weeks of treatment at 300 mg/day. To avoid high peak concentrations of bupropion and/or its metabolites, do not exceed 200 mg in any single dose. It is generally agreed that acute episodes of depression require several months or longer of antidepressant drug treatment beyond the response in the acute episode. It is unknown whether the dose of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets needed for maintenance treatment is identical to the dose that provided an initial response. Periodically reassess the need for maintenance treatment and the appropriate dose for such treatment. 2.2 Dose Adjustment in Patients with Hepatic Impairment In patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score: 7 to 15), the maximum dose of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets is 100 mg/day or 150 mg every other day. In patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score: 5 to 6), consider reducing the dose and/or frequency of dosing [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 2.3 Dose Adjustment in Patients with Renal Impairment Consider reducing the dose and/or frequency of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets in patients with renal impairment (Glomerular Filtration Rate [GFR] less than 90 mL/min) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] ....

Side Effects (Adverse Reactions)

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents and young adults [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Neuropsychiatric symptoms and suicide risk in smoking cessation treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Seizure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Activation of mania or hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Psychosis and other neuropsychiatric reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Angle-closure glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Hypersensitivity reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and ≥2% more than placebo rate) are: headache, dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, pharyngitis, constipation, agitation, anxiety, abdominal pain, tinnitus, tremor, palpitation, myalgia, sweating, rash, and anorexia. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Solco Healthcare US, LLC at 1-866-257-2597 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation of Treatment In placebo-controlled clinical trials, 4%, 9%, and 11% of the placebo, 300-mg/day, and 400-mg/day groups, respectively, discontinued treatment due to adverse reactions. The specific adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in at least 1% of the 300-mg/day or 400-mg/day groups and at a rate at least twice the placebo rate are listed in Table 2. Table 2. Treatment Discontinuations Due to Adverse Reactions in Placebo-Controlled Trials Adverse Reaction Placebo (n=385) Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets 300 mg/day (n=376) Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets 400 mg/day (n=114) Rash 0.0% 2.4% 0.9% Nausea 0.3% 0.8% 1.8% Agitation 0.3% 0.3% 1.8% Migraine 0.3% 0.0% 1.8% Commonly Observed Adverse Reactions Adverse reactions from Table 3 occurring in at least 5% of subjects treated with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets and at a rate at least twice the placebo rate are listed below for the 300- and 400-mg/day dose groups. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets 300 mg/day: Anorexia, dry mouth, rash, sweating, tinnitus, and tremor. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets 400 mg/day: Abdominal pain, agitation, anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia, myalgia, nausea, palpitation, pharyngitis, sweating, tinnitus, and urinary frequency. Adverse reactions reported in placebo-controlled trials are presented in Table 3. Reported adverse reactions were classified using a COSTART-based Dictionary. Table 3. Adverse Reactions Reported by at Least 1% of Subjects and at a Greater Frequency than Placebo in Controlled Clinical Trials Body System/Adverse Reaction Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets 300 mg/day (n = 376) Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets 400 mg/day (n = 114) Placebo (n = 385) Body (general) Headache 26% 25% 23% Infection 8% 9% 6% Abdominal pain 3% 9% 2% Asthenia 2% 4% 2% Chest pain 3% 4% 1% Pain 2% 3% 2% Fever 1% 2% — Cardiovascular Palpitation 2% 6% 2% Flushing 1% 4% — Migraine 1% 4% 1% Hot flashes 1% 3% 1% Digestive Dry mouth 17% 24% 7% Nausea 13% 18% 8% Constipation 10% 5% 7% Diarrhea 5% 7% 6% Anorexia 5% 3% 2% Vomiting 4% 2% 2% Dysphagia 0% 2% 0% Musculoskeletal Myalgia 2% 6% 3% Arthralgia 1% 4% 1% Arthritis 0% 2% 0% Twitch 1% 2% — Nervous system Insomnia 11% 16% 6% Dizziness 7% 11% 5% Agitation 3% 9% 2% Anxiety 5% 6% 3% Tremor 6% 3% 1% Nervousness 5% 3% 3% Somnolence 2% 3% 2% Irritability 3% 2% 2% Memory decreased — 3% 1% Paresthesia...

Drug Interactions

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS CYP2B6 inducers: Dose increase may be necessary if coadministered with CYP2B6 inducers (e.g., ritonavir, lopinavir, efavirenz, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin) based on clinical response, but should not exceed the maximum recommended dose. ( 7.1 ) Drugs metabolized by CYP2D6: Bupropion inhibits CYP2D6 and can increase concentrations of: antidepressants (e.g., venlafaxine, nortriptyline, imipramine, desipramine, paroxetine, fluoxetine, sertraline), antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone, thioridazine), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), and Type 1C antiarrhythmics (e.g., propafenone, flecainide). Consider dose reduction when using with bupropion. ( 7.2 ) Drugs that lower seizure threshold: Dose bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets with caution. ( 5.3 , 7.3 ) Digoxin: May decrease plasma digoxin levels. Monitor digoxin levels. ( 7.2) Dopaminergic drugs (levodopa and amantadine): CNS toxicity can occur when used concomitantly with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets. ( 7.4 ) MAOIs: Increased risk of hypertensive reactions can occur when used concomitantly with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets. ( 7.6 ) Drug-laboratory test interactions: Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets can cause false-positive urine test results for amphetamines. ( 7.7 ) 7.1 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-release (SR) Tablets Bupropion is primarily metabolized to hydroxybupropion by CYP2B6. Therefore, the potential exists for drug interactions between bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets and drugs that are inhibitors or inducers of CYP2B6. Inhibitors of CYP2B6 Ticlopidine and Clopidogrel: Concomitant treatment with these drugs can increase bupropion exposure but decrease hydroxybupropion exposure. Based on clinical response, dosage adjustment of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets may be necessary when coadministered with CYP2B6 inhibitors (e.g., ticlopidine or clopidogrel) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Inducers of CYP2B6 Ritonavir, Lopinavir, and Efavirenz: Concomitant treatment with these drugs can decrease bupropion and hydroxybupropion exposure. Dosage increase of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets may be necessary when coadministered with ritonavir, lopinavir, or efavirenz [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] but should not exceed the maximum recommended dose. Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin: While not systematically studied, these drugs may induce the metabolism of bupropion and may decrease bupropion exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . If bupropion is used concomitantly with a CYP inducer, it may be necessary to increase the dose of bupropion, but the maximum recommended dose should not be exceeded. 7.2 Potential for Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-release (SR) Tablets to Affect Other Drugs Drugs Metabolized by CYP2D6 Bupropion and its...

Contraindications

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets are contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets are contraindicated in patients with a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa as a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with the immediate-release formulation of bupropion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets are contraindicated in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . The use of MAOIs (intended to treat psychiatric disorders) concomitantly with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets or within 14 days of discontinuing treatment with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets is contraindicated. There is an increased risk of hypertensive reactions when bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets are used concomitantly with MAOIs. The use of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets within 14 days of discontinuing treatment with an MAOI is also contraindicated. Starting bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets in a patient treated with reversible MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is contraindicated [see Dosage and Administration (2.4 , 2.5) , Warnings and Precautions (5.4) , Drug Interactions (7.6) ]. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to bupropion or other ingredients of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets. Anaphylactoid/anaphylactic reactions and Stevens-Johnson syndrome have been reported [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . Seizure disorder. ( 4 , 5.3 ) Current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa. ( 4 , 5.3 ) Abrupt discontinuation of alcohol,...

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is an independent pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to any antidepressants during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants at 1-844-4056185 or visiting online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/research/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants/. Risk Summary Data from epidemiological studies of pregnant women exposed to bupropion in the first trimester have not identified an increased risk of congenital malformations overall (see Data) . There are risks to the mother associated with untreated depression in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations). When bupropion was administered to pregnant rats during organogenesis, there was no evidence of fetal malformations at doses up to approximately 11 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 400 mg/day. When given to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis, non-dose-related increases in incidence of fetal malformations, and skeletal variations were observed at doses approximately equal to the MRHD and greater. Decreased fetal weights were seen at doses twice the MRHD and greater (see Animal Data) . The estimated background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage is unknown for the indicated population. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk: A prospective, longitudinal study followed 201 pregnant women with a history of major depressive disorder who were euthymic and taking antidepressants during pregnancy at the beginning of pregnancy. The women who discontinued antidepressants during pregnancy were more likely to experience a relapse...

8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Data from published literature report the presence of bupropion and its metabolites in human milk (see Data) . There are no data on the effects of bupropion or its metabolites on milk production. Limited data from postmarketing reports have not identified a clear association of adverse reactions in the breastfed infant. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from bupropion hydrochloride extended-release (SR) tablets or from the underlying maternal condition. Data In a lactation study of 10 women, levels of orally dosed bupropion and its active metabolites were measured in expressed milk. The average daily infant exposure (assuming 150 mL/kg daily consumption) to bupropion and its active metabolites was 2% of the maternal weight-adjusted dose. Postmarketing reports have described seizures in breastfed infants. The relationship of bupropion exposure and these seizures is unclear.

Overdosage

10 OVERDOSAGE 10.1 Human Overdose Experience Overdoses of up to 30 grams or more of bupropion have been reported. Seizure was reported in approximately one-third of all cases. Other serious reactions reported with overdoses of bupropion alone included hallucinations, loss of consciousness, mental status changes, sinus tachycardia, ECG changes such as conduction disturbances (including QRS prolongation) or arrhythmias, clonus, myoclonus, and hyperreflexia. Fever, muscle rigidity, rhabdomyolysis, hypotension, stupor, coma, and respiratory failure have been reported mainly when bupropion was part of multiple drug overdoses. Although most patients recovered without sequelae, deaths associated with overdoses of bupropion alone have been reported in patients ingesting large doses of the drug. Multiple uncontrolled seizures, bradycardia, cardiac failure, and cardiac arrest prior to death were reported in these patients. 10.2 Overdosage Management Consult a Certified Poison Control Center for up-to-date guidance and advice. Call 1-800-222-1222 or refer to www.poison.org. There are no known antidotes for bupropion. In case of an overdose, provide supportive care, including close medical supervision and monitoring. Consider the possibility of multiple drug overdose. Ensure an adequate airway, oxygenation, and ventilation. Monitor cardiac rhythm and vital signs. Induction of emesis is not recommended.

How Supplied

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets USP (SR), 100 mg of bupropion hydrochloride, USP are blue, round, biconvex, film-coated tablets debossed with “S” on one side and “522” on the other. NDC: 70518-4591-00 PACKAGING: 30 in 1 BLISTER PACK Store at room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light and moisture. Repackaged and Distributed By: Remedy Repack, Inc. 625 Kolter Dr. Suite #4 Indiana, PA 1-724-465-8762

About This Information

This drug information is sourced from FDA-approved labeling via the openFDA database. It is intended for educational and reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making decisions about medication. Drug information may be updated by the FDA; check with your pharmacist for the most current information.

What are side effects?

Side effects are unwanted reactions that can occur when taking a medication. They range from mild (headache, nausea) to severe (allergic reactions, organ damage). Not everyone experiences side effects, and severity varies. Report any concerning side effects to your doctor.

What are drug interactions?

Drug interactions occur when a medication is affected by another drug, food, or supplement. Interactions can make medications less effective or cause dangerous side effects. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.