Question: Five years ago after I started taking bupropion for depression, I noticed that the number and severity of migraine headaches that I have had for 40 years was greatly reduced. I'm very reluctant to stop the bupropion, but is there a problem with using this medication long-term?
Dr. Hibberd's Answer:
Bupropion is the active component of Wellbutrin that is used for depression treatment. The same medication is called Zyban, and is used for smoking cessation.
Bupropion can safely be used long term under physician supervision. The "off label" use for chronic pain and migraine is clearly successful in your case. Most of the problems seen with this medicine are seen in the first few months of use, and it is not intended for those with cardiac disease, seizures, liver, or renal disease.
There are a number of drug interactions, so be sure all your doctors are aware you are using it. Avoid alcohol while using this medication, and monitor your blood pressure which may increase in some individuals. While long-term safety data is scant, there are many patients who have been using this agent under physician direction and supervision for many years.
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