Drug interactions
Bupropion + Dextromethorphan
Severity: Moderate
Bupropion and Dextromethorphan: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Bupropion strongly inhibits CYP2D6 and markedly raises dextromethorphan levels, which can cause dizziness, sedation, or serotonergic effects. Labeled combination products use this effect deliberately.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bupropion and Dextromethorphan can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Bupropion belongs to Central Nervous System; Dextromethorphan belongs to Respiratory.
Why it happens
Inhibition of CYP2D6-mediated dextromethorphan metabolism by bupropion.
What to do
Avoid additional over-the-counter dextromethorphan unless prescribed as a combined regimen. Monitor for dizziness and serotonergic symptoms.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Bupropion
- Bupropion + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Selegiline transdermal Contraindicated
Other interactions of Dextromethorphan
- Dextromethorphan + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Safinamide Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bupropion with Dextromethorphan?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Bupropion and Dextromethorphan can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Bupropion strongly inhibits CYP2D6 and markedly raises dextromethorphan levels, which can cause dizziness, sedation, or serotonergic effects. Labeled combination products use this effect deliberately.
How serious is the interaction between Bupropion and Dextromethorphan?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid additional over-the-counter dextromethorphan unless prescribed as a combined regimen. Monitor for dizziness and serotonergic symptoms.
What other medicines interact with Bupropion?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Bupropion with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Linezolid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Bupropion page.
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