Postpartum depression (PPD) is a condition that affects many women after childbirth. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available. One promising treatment option is bupropion. Bupropion belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antidepressants.1,2
What are the ingredients in bupropion?
The active ingredient is bupropion.3
How does bupropion work?
Bupropion works by changing certain chemical messengers called neurotransmitters in the brain. Unlike some other antidepressants – like SSRIs and SNRIs – bupropion does not affect serotonin levels. Instead, it targets norepinephrine and dopamine.2,3
Norepinephrine and dopamine are hormones as well as neurotransmitters. Norepinephrine has an effect on levels of focus and alertness. Dopamine is the “feel good” hormone.2,3
Bupropion may be beneficial for those who have not had luck with other antidepressants that target serotonin.2,3
How is it beneficial for postpartum depression?
Bupropion helps to rebalance neurotransmitters in the brain. This can improve mood and relieve symptoms of depression. This makes it a valuable option for parents struggling with postpartum depression.1,2,4
Examples of bupropion
Bupropion is sold under the following brand names:2,3
- Aplenzin®
- Forfivo XL®
- Wellbutrin SR®
- Wellbutrin XL®
- Zyban®
What are the possible side effects?
The most common side effects of bupropion include:2,3
- Drowsiness
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
Bupropion has a boxed warning, the strictest warning from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It has this warning because bupropion may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and suicide, especially in people under age 25.2,3
These are not all the possible side effects of bupropion. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking bupropion. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking bupropion.2,3
Other things to know
Tell your doctor if you have a history of any mental illness or have had thoughts of suicide. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you are taking bupropion. If you find your depression worsening or are having thoughts of harming yourself, tell your doctor or call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 immediately.2,3
Bupropion has the potential to trigger angle-closure glaucoma. This is a serious eye condition in which the eye’s drainage system becomes blocked, resulting in a rapid and severe increase in eye pressure. This pressure could lead to vision loss. Before taking bupropion, talk to your doctor about whether you should have an eye exam.2
Like other antidepressants, a very small amount of bupropion does pass through breast milk. But research has shown that, for most people, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Talk to your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.3
Do not stop taking bupropion without first talking with your doctor. Stopping this drug abruptly could have negative side effects.3
Before beginning treatment for postpartum depression, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs.
For more information, read the full prescribing information for bupropion.