Drug interactions
Bupropion + Venlafaxine
Severity: Major
Bupropion and Venlafaxine: 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 inhibits CYP2D6, which converts venlafaxine to its active metabolite, shifting the parent to metabolite ratio. Both drugs lower seizure threshold and raise blood pressure. Seizure and hypertension risk are increased.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bupropion and Venlafaxine 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; Venlafaxine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Bupropion CYP2D6 inhibition raises venlafaxine levels, with additive seizure-threshold lowering and noradrenergic effects.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses and titrate slowly. Monitor blood pressure and for seizures and serotonergic symptoms.
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 Venlafaxine
- Isocarboxazid + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Procarbazine + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Rasagiline + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Safinamide + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bupropion with Venlafaxine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bupropion and Venlafaxine 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 inhibits CYP2D6, which converts venlafaxine to its active metabolite, shifting the parent to metabolite ratio. Both drugs lower seizure threshold and raise blood pressure. Seizure and hypertension risk are increased.
How serious is the interaction between Bupropion and Venlafaxine?
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 titrate slowly. Monitor blood pressure and for seizures 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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