Drug Interactions between bupropion and chlorpheniramine / guaifenesin / phenylephrine

Using buPROPion with alcohol may increase the risk of uncommon side effects such as seizures, hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, mood and behavioral changes, depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and panic attacks. On the other hand, sudden withdrawal from alcohol following regular or chronic use can also increase your risk of seizures during treatment with buPROPion. If you are prone to frequent or excessive alcohol use, talk to your doctor before starting buPROPion. In general, you should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with buPROPion. Also avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of chlorpheniramine such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with chlorpheniramine. Do not use more than the recommended dose of chlorpheniramine, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

Both buPROPion and caffeine can increase blood pressure. And using them together may have additive effects. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns, particularly if you have a history of high blood pressure or heart disease. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Both phenylephrine and caffeine can increase blood pressure and heart rate, and combining them may enhance these effects. Talk to your doctor before using these medications, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or heart disease. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you experience increased side effects. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Using buPROPion and nicotine together can cause an increase in blood pressure. This can cause dizziness, confusion, uneven heartbeats, and chest pain. If you take both medications together, tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. You may need a dose adjustment or need your blood pressure checked more often if you take both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term trials; these trials did not show increased risk in patients older than 24 years and risk was reduced in patients 65 years and older. Adult and pediatric patients with major depressive disorder may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressants; this risk may persist until significant remission occurs. Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders; such disorders are the strongest predictors of suicide. Patients of all ages treated with antidepressants for any indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the first few months of drug therapy, and at times of dose changes. Family members/caregivers should be advised to monitor for changes in behavior and to notify the health care provider. Changing the therapeutic regimen (including discontinuing the medication) should be considered in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Sympathomimetic agents may cause adverse cardiovascular effects, particularly when used in high dosages and/or in susceptible patients. In cardiac tissues, these agents may produce positive chronotropic and inotropic effects via stimulation of beta- 1 adrenergic receptors. Cardiac output, oxygen consumption, and the work of the heart may be increased. In the peripheral vasculature, vasoconstriction may occur via stimulation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmia, hypertension, reflex bradycardia, coronary occlusion, cerebral vasculitis, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, and death have been reported. Some of these agents, particularly ephedra alkaloids (ephedrine, ma huang, phenylpropanolamine), may also predispose patients to hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should generally be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with sensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, hyperthyroidism, or underlying cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disorders. These agents should not be used in patients with severe coronary artery disease or severe/uncontrolled hypertension.

Sympathomimetic agents may cause adverse cardiovascular effects, particularly when used in high dosages and/or in susceptible patients. In cardiac tissues, these agents may produce positive chronotropic and inotropic effects via stimulation of beta- 1 adrenergic receptors. Cardiac output, oxygen consumption, and the work of the heart may be increased. In the peripheral vasculature, vasoconstriction may occur via stimulation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmia, hypertension, reflex bradycardia, coronary occlusion, cerebral vasculitis, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, and death have been reported. Some of these agents, particularly ephedra alkaloids (ephedrine, ma huang, phenylpropanolamine), may also predispose patients to hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should generally be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with sensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, hyperthyroidism, or underlying cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disorders. These agents should not be used in patients with severe coronary artery disease or severe/uncontrolled hypertension.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term trials; these trials did not show increased risk in patients older than 24 years and risk was reduced in patients 65 years and older. Adult and pediatric patients with major depressive disorder may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressants; this risk may persist until significant remission occurs. Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders; such disorders are the strongest predictors of suicide. Patients of all ages treated with antidepressants for any indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the first few months of drug therapy, and at times of dose changes. Family members/caregivers should be advised to monitor for changes in behavior and to notify the health care provider. Changing the therapeutic regimen (including discontinuing the medication) should be considered in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Sympathomimetic agents may cause adverse cardiovascular effects, particularly when used in high dosages and/or in susceptible patients. In cardiac tissues, these agents may produce positive chronotropic and inotropic effects via stimulation of beta- 1 adrenergic receptors. Cardiac output, oxygen consumption, and the work of the heart may be increased. In the peripheral vasculature, vasoconstriction may occur via stimulation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmia, hypertension, reflex bradycardia, coronary occlusion, cerebral vasculitis, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, and death have been reported. Some of these agents, particularly ephedra alkaloids (ephedrine, ma huang, phenylpropanolamine), may also predispose patients to hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should generally be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with sensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, hyperthyroidism, or underlying cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disorders. These agents should not be used in patients with severe coronary artery disease or severe/uncontrolled hypertension.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

Sympathomimetic agents may cause adverse cardiovascular effects, particularly when used in high dosages and/or in susceptible patients. In cardiac tissues, these agents may produce positive chronotropic and inotropic effects via stimulation of beta- 1 adrenergic receptors. Cardiac output, oxygen consumption, and the work of the heart may be increased. In the peripheral vasculature, vasoconstriction may occur via stimulation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmia, hypertension, reflex bradycardia, coronary occlusion, cerebral vasculitis, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, and death have been reported. Some of these agents, particularly ephedra alkaloids (ephedrine, ma huang, phenylpropanolamine), may also predispose patients to hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should generally be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with sensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, hyperthyroidism, or underlying cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disorders. These agents should not be used in patients with severe coronary artery disease or severe/uncontrolled hypertension.

Bupropion is contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder. Bupropion can cause seizure; the risk is dose-related. In 1 study, the seizure incidence was about 0.4% with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl) in the range of 300 to 450 mg/day (equal to 348 to 522 mg/day of extended-release bupropion hydrobromide [HBr]); the incidence of seizures increases dramatically at higher dosages (almost 10-fold between 450 and 600 mg/day as bupropion HCl [equal to 522 and 696 mg/day as bupropion HBr]). The risk of seizures (related to patient factors, clinical situations, and concomitant medications that lower the seizure threshold) should be considered before starting bupropion. Bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with current/prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa (a higher incidence of seizures was observed in such patients treated with immediate-release bupropion) and in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. Bupropion should be administered with caution in patients with conditions that increase the risk of seizure or who have other predisposing conditions including severe head injury; arteriovenous malformation; CNS infection or CNS tumor; severe stroke; metabolic disorders (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, severe hepatic impairment, hypoxia); excessive use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedative/hypnotics, or opiates; use of illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine); abuse/misuse of prescription drugs (e.g., CNS stimulants); diabetes mellitus treated with oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin; use of anorectic agents; and concomitant use of medications that lower the seizure threshold. The risk of seizure can be reduced if the maximum recommended dosage is not exceeded (e.g., 450 mg/day [as 150 mg 3 times a day] for immediate-release bupropion HCl; 400 mg/day [as 200 mg twice a day] for sustained-release bupropion HCl; 450 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HCl; 522 mg once a day for extended-release bupropion HBr), and the titration rate is gradual. Bupropion should be discontinued and should not be restarted if the patient has a seizure.

It has been suggested that the anticholinergic effect of antihistamines may reduce the volume and cause thickening of bronchial secretions, resulting in obstruction of respiratory tract. Some manufacturers and clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Sympathomimetic agents may cause or worsen urinary difficulty in patients with prostate enlargement due to smooth muscle contraction in the bladder neck via stimulation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with hypertrophy or neoplasm of the prostate.

Bupropion is not approved for the treatment of bipolar depression. Antidepressant therapy can trigger a manic, mixed, or hypomanic episode; the risk appears increased in patients with bipolar disorder or with risk factors for bipolar disorder. Before starting bupropion, patients should be screened for history of bipolar disorder and risk factors for bipolar disorder (e.g., family history of bipolar disorder, suicide, or depression). Depressed patients treated with bupropion have had various neuropsychiatric signs/symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, psychosis, concentration disturbance, confusion, and paranoia; some of these patients had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. In some cases, these symptoms abated with dose reduction and/or discontinuation of therapy. Bupropion should be discontinued if such reactions occur.

Antihistamines may infrequently cause cardiovascular adverse effects related to their anticholinergic and local anesthetic (quinidine-like) activities. Tachycardia, palpitation, ECG changes, arrhythmias, hypotension, and hypertension have been reported. Although these effects are uncommon and usually limited to overdosage situations, the manufacturers and some clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and/or hyperthyroidism.

It has been suggested that the anticholinergic effect of antihistamines may reduce the volume and cause thickening of bronchial secretions, resulting in obstruction of respiratory tract. Some manufacturers and clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Sympathomimetic agents may cause increases in blood glucose concentrations. These effects are usually transient and slight but may be significant with dosages higher than those normally recommended. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with diabetes mellitus. Closer monitoring of blood glucose concentrations may be appropriate.

Antihistamines often have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously, if at all, in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. Conventional, first-generation antihistamines such as the ethanolamines (bromodiphenhydramine, carbinoxamine, clemastine, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, phenyltoloxamine) tend to exhibit substantial anticholinergic effects. In contrast, the newer, relatively nonsedating antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) reportedly have low to minimal anticholinergic activity at normally recommended dosages and may be appropriate alternatives.

The pupillary dilation that occurs after use of many antidepressant drugs (including bupropion) can induce increased intraocular pressure and result in angle-closure (narrow-angle) glaucoma in a patient with anatomically narrow angles who does not have a patent iridectomy. Patients may want to be examined to determine whether they are susceptible to angle closure, and have a prophylactic procedure (e.g., iridectomy), if they are susceptible. The use of antidepressants (including bupropion-dextromethorphan) should be avoided in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles.

Antihistamines often have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously, if at all, in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. Conventional, first-generation antihistamines such as the ethanolamines (bromodiphenhydramine, carbinoxamine, clemastine, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, phenyltoloxamine) tend to exhibit substantial anticholinergic effects. In contrast, the newer, relatively nonsedating antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) reportedly have low to minimal anticholinergic activity at normally recommended dosages and may be appropriate alternatives.

Sympathomimetic agents can induce transient mydriasis via stimulation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. In patients with anatomically narrow angles or narrow-angle glaucoma, pupillary dilation can provoke an acute attack. In patients with other forms of glaucoma, mydriasis may occasionally increase intraocular pressure. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to glaucoma, particularly narrow-angle glaucoma.

Antihistamines may infrequently cause cardiovascular adverse effects related to their anticholinergic and local anesthetic (quinidine-like) activities. Tachycardia, palpitation, ECG changes, arrhythmias, hypotension, and hypertension have been reported. Although these effects are uncommon and usually limited to overdosage situations, the manufacturers and some clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and/or hyperthyroidism.

Antihistamines may infrequently cause cardiovascular adverse effects related to their anticholinergic and local anesthetic (quinidine-like) activities. Tachycardia, palpitation, ECG changes, arrhythmias, hypotension, and hypertension have been reported. Although these effects are uncommon and usually limited to overdosage situations, the manufacturers and some clinicians recommend that therapy with antihistamines be administered cautiously in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and/or hyperthyroidism.

Limited pharmacokinetic data are available for the older, first-generation antihistamines. Many appear to be primarily metabolized by the liver, and both parent drugs and metabolites are excreted in the urine. Patients with renal and/or liver disease may be at greater risk for adverse effects from antihistamines due to drug and metabolite accumulation. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Lower initial dosages may be appropriate.

Bupropion is primarily metabolized by the liver. The systemic exposure and half-life of bupropion and its metabolites may be increased in patients with liver dysfunction. A reduced dose and/or dosing frequency should be considered in patients with mild liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh score: 5 to 6). A dosage reduction is required in patients with moderate to severe liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh score: 7 to 15) who are using a single-ingredient bupropion product; the dosage should not exceed 75 mg/day with immediate-release bupropion hydrochloride (HCl), 100 mg/day or 150 mg every other day with sustained-release bupropion HCl, 150 mg every other day with extended-release bupropion HCl, and 174 mg every other day with extended-release bupropion hydrobromide. Bupropion-dextromethorphan is not recommended for patients with severe liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh C), and no dose adjustment of bupropion-dextromethorphan is recommended in patients with mild or moderate liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh A or B).

Bupropion is not approved for the treatment of bipolar depression. Antidepressant therapy can trigger a manic, mixed, or hypomanic episode; the risk appears increased in patients with bipolar disorder or with risk factors for bipolar disorder. Before starting bupropion, patients should be screened for history of bipolar disorder and risk factors for bipolar disorder (e.g., family history of bipolar disorder, suicide, or depression). Depressed patients treated with bupropion have had various neuropsychiatric signs/symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, psychosis, concentration disturbance, confusion, and paranoia; some of these patients had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. In some cases, these symptoms abated with dose reduction and/or discontinuation of therapy. Bupropion should be discontinued if such reactions occur.

Sympathomimetic agents may cause or worsen urinary difficulty in patients with prostate enlargement due to smooth muscle contraction in the bladder neck via stimulation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Therapy with sympathomimetic agents should be administered cautiously in patients with hypertrophy or neoplasm of the prostate.

Limited pharmacokinetic data are available for the older, first-generation antihistamines. Many appear to be primarily metabolized by the liver, and both parent drugs and metabolites are excreted in the urine. Patients with renal and/or liver disease may be at greater risk for adverse effects from antihistamines due to drug and metabolite accumulation. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously in such patients. Lower initial dosages may be appropriate.

Bupropion and its metabolites, some of which are pharmacologically active with one-fifth to one-half the potency of the parent drug, are cleared renally and may accumulate in patients with renal dysfunction (GFR less than 90 mL/min) to a greater extent than usual. Therefore, bupropion should be used with caution in patients with renal dysfunction. A reduced dose and/or dosing frequency should be considered, and patients should be closely monitored for adverse effects that could indicate high bupropion or metabolite exposures. Bupropion-dextromethorphan is not recommended for patients with severe renal dysfunction (estimated GFR 15 to 29 mL/min/1.73 m2); dosage adjustment of bupropion-dextromethorphan is recommended in patients with moderate renal dysfunction (estimated GFR 30 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m2).

Antihistamines often have anticholinergic activity, to which elderly patients are particularly sensitive. Therapy with antihistamines should be administered cautiously, if at all, in patients with preexisting conditions that are likely to be exacerbated by anticholinergic activity, such as urinary retention or obstruction; angle-closure glaucoma, untreated intraocular hypertension, or uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma; and gastrointestinal obstructive disorders. Conventional, first-generation antihistamines such as the ethanolamines (bromodiphenhydramine, carbinoxamine, clemastine, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, doxylamine, phenyltoloxamine) tend to exhibit substantial anticholinergic effects. In contrast, the newer, relatively nonsedating antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, fexofenadine, loratadine) reportedly have low to minimal anticholinergic activity at normally recommended dosages and may be appropriate alternatives.

The use of bupropion is associated with weight alterations. Both weight gain and weight loss may occur, although the latter is much more common. Weight loss greater than 2.27 kg was reported in up to 28% of patients, which may be undesirable in patients suffering from anorexia, malnutrition, or excessive weight loss. Weight change should be monitored during therapy if bupropion is used in these patients.