Drug interactions
Bupropion + Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir
Severity: Moderate
Bupropion and Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir: 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
Ritonavir can induce CYP2B6 and lower bupropion exposure with prolonged use, but during the short 5-day nirmatrelvir/ritonavir course the effect is likely small. Reduced efficacy is the main theoretical concern.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bupropion and Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir 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.
Why it happens
Ritonavir-mediated modulation (induction) of CYP2B6 metabolism of bupropion.
What to do
Continue bupropion at the usual dose and monitor for reduced clinical response during and shortly after the short course. Avoid unnecessary bupropion dose increases.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bupropion with Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Bupropion and Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir 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. Ritonavir can induce CYP2B6 and lower bupropion exposure with prolonged use, but during the short 5-day nirmatrelvir/ritonavir course the effect is likely small. Reduced efficacy is the main theoretical concern.
How serious is the interaction between Bupropion and Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Continue bupropion at the usual dose and monitor for reduced clinical response during and shortly after the short course. Avoid unnecessary bupropion dose increases.
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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