Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) antidepressant
Bupropion with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Bupropion (Bupropion). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Bupropion at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) antidepressant agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Bupropion at 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Bupropion, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Bupropion is co-administered. Adjusted 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bupropion during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Bupropion is metabolised and may need a temporary 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Bupropion regimen.
Will antibiotics make Bupropion stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Bupropion efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Bupropion levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Bupropion
More on Bupropion
- With alcoholBupropion and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Bupropion be taken with food?
- Side effectsBupropion side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideBupropion dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Bupropion start working?
- DurationHow long does Bupropion last?
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