Drug interactions
Bupropion + Duloxetine
Severity: Major
Bupropion and Duloxetine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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, the main route of duloxetine's partial metabolism, which can raise duloxetine concentrations. Both drugs also lower the seizure threshold. This increases risk of duloxetine adverse effects and seizures.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bupropion and Duloxetine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Bupropion belongs to Central Nervous System; Duloxetine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Bupropion inhibits CYP2D6, raising duloxetine levels, plus additive seizure-threshold lowering.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses and consider a duloxetine dose reduction. Monitor for seizures, serotonergic symptoms and blood pressure elevation.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
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 Duloxetine
- Duloxetine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bupropion with Duloxetine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bupropion and Duloxetine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Bupropion strongly inhibits CYP2D6, the main route of duloxetine's partial metabolism, which can raise duloxetine concentrations. Both drugs also lower the seizure threshold. This increases risk of duloxetine adverse effects and seizures.
How serious is the interaction between Bupropion and Duloxetine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use the lowest effective doses and consider a duloxetine dose reduction. Monitor for seizures, serotonergic symptoms and blood pressure elevation.
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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