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generic bupropion
Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) that increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain by blocking their reuptake at the presynaptic neuron.
Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) that increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain by blocking their reuptake at the presynaptic neuron. Used for Major depressive disorder, Seasonal affective disorder, Smoking cessation (nicotine dependence).
At a glance
| Generic name | generic bupropion |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Wellbutrin |
| Sponsor | University of Michigan |
| Drug class | Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) |
| Target | Norepinephrine transporter (NET); Dopamine transporter (DAT) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Psychiatry |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
By inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, bupropion increases the concentration of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, enhancing their signaling. Unlike selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), bupropion does not significantly affect serotonin reuptake. This mechanism makes it particularly useful for depression with anhedonia or fatigue, and for smoking cessation where dopamine's role in reward and motivation is therapeutically relevant.
Approved indications
- Major depressive disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Smoking cessation (nicotine dependence)
Common side effects
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Seizures
- Hypertension
Key clinical trials
- Metabolic and Behavioural Effects of CONTRAVE as Potential Mechanisms of Weight Loss in Adults With Obesity (PHASE4)
- A Drug Interaction Study of Danicopan (PHASE1)
- Clinical Study of Generic and Brand Bupropion in Depression (PHASE4)
- Pharmacokinetic Study of Bupropion Hydrochloride Products With Different Release Patterns (PHASE4)
- Tobacco Treatment Outreach to Reduce Disparities for Primary Care Populations (NA)
- AZD2066 Cocktail Study (PHASE1)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- generic bupropion CI brief — competitive landscape report
- generic bupropion updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- University of Michigan portfolio CI