Drug interactions
Bupropion + Theophylline
Severity: Major
Bupropion and Theophylline: 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
Both theophylline and bupropion lower the seizure threshold, so combined use increases the risk of seizures. This is particularly relevant when theophylline levels are elevated or bupropion doses are high.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bupropion and Theophylline 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; Theophylline belongs to Respiratory.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic lowering of the seizure threshold.
What to do
Avoid the combination when possible, or use the lowest effective bupropion dose with gradual titration. Keep theophylline levels within the therapeutic range and avoid in patients with other seizure risk factors.
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
- buPropion Hydrochloride XL - FDA drug label (DailyMed) — openFDA / DailyMed
Other interactions of Theophylline
- Riociguat + Theophylline Contraindicated
- Adenosine + Theophylline Major
- Apalutamide + Theophylline Major
- Carvedilol + Theophylline Major
- Cimetidine + Theophylline Major
- Ciprofloxacin + Theophylline Major
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 Theophylline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bupropion and Theophylline 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. Both theophylline and bupropion lower the seizure threshold, so combined use increases the risk of seizures. This is particularly relevant when theophylline levels are elevated or bupropion doses are high.
How serious is the interaction between Bupropion and Theophylline?
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 the combination when possible, or use the lowest effective bupropion dose with gradual titration. Keep theophylline levels within the therapeutic range and avoid in patients with other seizure risk factors.
What other medicines interact with Theophylline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Theophylline with, for example, Riociguat, Adenosine, Apalutamide. The full list is on the Theophylline page.
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