Bupropion Hydrobromide
Bupropion Hydrobromide is an atypical antidepressant belonging to the norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) class. It works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain through reuptake inhibition. This medication is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and may also be used for smoking cessation support.
Bupropion Hydrobromide is an NDRI antidepressant used to treat depression and support smoking cessation by increasing brain dopamine and norepinephrine levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 993548
- Generic
- Bupropion Hydrobromide
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Aplenzin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and as an aid for smoking cessation. May also be used off-label for conditions such as anxiety, bipolar depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as determined by a healthcare provider.
As a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), bupropion blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine at the presynaptic neuron, increasing their availability in the synaptic cleft. This differs from SSRIs and SNRIs, which primarily target serotonin pathways.
May lower seizure threshold; contraindicated in patients with seizure disorders, eating disorders (bulimia/anorexia), or those undergoing abrupt alcohol/sedative discontinuation. Should not be used within 14 days of MAOI inhibitors. Common side effects include dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, headache, and agitation. Patients should be monitored for worsening depression or suicidal ideation, particularly when initiating therapy.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy