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BUDEPRION XL™
(bupropion hydrochloride) Extended-Release Tablets USP (XL)
Suicidality and Antidepressant Drugs
Antidepressants increased the risk compared to placebo of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies of major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of BUDEPRION XL™ [bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)] or any other antidepressant in a child, adolescent, or young adult must balance this risk with the clinical need. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older. Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber. BUDEPRION XL™ is not approved for use in pediatric patients. (See WARNINGS, Clinical Worsening and Suicide Risk, PRECAUTIONS: INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS, and PRECAUTIONS, Pediatric Use.)
BUDEPRION XL™ (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets) , an antidepressant of the aminoketone class, is chemically unrelated to tricyclic, tetracyclic, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, or other known antidepressant agents. Its structure closely resembles that of diethylpropion; it is related to phenylethylamines.
It is designated as (±)-1-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-[(1,1-dimethylethyl)amino]-1-propanone hydrochloride. The molecular weight is 276.2. The molecular formula is C13H18ClNO•HCl. Bupropion hydrochloride powder is white, crystalline, and highly soluble in water. It has a bitter taste and produces the sensation of local anesthesia on the oral mucosa. The structural formula is:
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BUDEPRION XL™ (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets) is supplied for oral administration as 150 mg, round white to off-white extended-release tablets. Each tablet contains the labeled amount of bupropion hydrochloride and the inactive ingredients: ethyl alcohol, ethylcellulose, hydrochloric acid, hydroxypropylcellulose, methacrylic acid copolymer, povidone, silicon dioxide, and hydrogenated vegetable oil. The tablets are printed with edible black ink. The insoluble shell of the extended-release tablet may remain intact during gastrointestinal transit and is eliminated in the feces. USP drug release testing is pending.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.
Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such...
Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Budeprion XL »
See also How to Use and Warning Sections
Before taking bupropion, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: seizures, eating disorders (e.g., bulimia, anorexia nervosa).
This medication should not be used if you are suddenly stopping regular use of sedatives (e.g., benzodiazepines such as lorazepam) or alcohol, which can cause a higher risk of seizures.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your...
Last reviewed on RxList: 8/8/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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