Drug interactions
Bupropion + Paroxetine
Severity: Major
Bupropion and Paroxetine: 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 and can raise paroxetine concentrations, which are already dependent on this enzyme. Both drugs lower the seizure threshold, so seizure risk is increased. Paroxetine adverse effects may also be more pronounced.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bupropion and Paroxetine 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; Paroxetine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Bupropion inhibits CYP2D6 raising paroxetine exposure, plus additive seizure-threshold lowering.
What to do
Avoid if possible, or use low bupropion doses and consider reducing paroxetine. Monitor for seizures and paroxetine adverse effects.
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 Paroxetine
- Isocarboxazid + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bupropion with Paroxetine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bupropion and Paroxetine 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 and can raise paroxetine concentrations, which are already dependent on this enzyme. Both drugs lower the seizure threshold, so seizure risk is increased. Paroxetine adverse effects may also be more pronounced.
How serious is the interaction between Bupropion and Paroxetine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid if possible, or use low bupropion doses and consider reducing paroxetine. Monitor for seizures and paroxetine adverse effects.
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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