Depression is a mental illness that many people in society suffer from in silence. There are various types of medications to treat it. Today we are going to talk about a relatively new type of medication that is used to control depression. It contains a combination of two drugs called Dextromethorphan and Bupropion. Simply put, this medication works by balancing the activity of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain that control mood.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Because this is a very powerful medication, it is important that your doctor knows your complete health history. Be sure to tell them if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Your condition or habit | Why is it important to inform the doctor ? |
|---|---|
| Eating disorders (such as Anorexia, Bulimia) | This medicine may increase the risk of seizures. |
| Other mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia | Medication may change those symptoms or cause manic states. |
| A head injury, brain or spinal tumor | Significantly increases the risk of seizures. |
| Diabetes and its medications | Blood sugar levels may change. |
| Frequent alcohol use | Taking this medicine with alcohol greatly increases the risk of seizures. |
| A history of high blood pressure, heart disease, or heart attacks | This medicine may further increase blood pressure. |
| Kidney or liver disease | The process of removing the medicine from the body may be affected. |
| If you or someone in your family has had suicidal thoughts | This medicine may increase such thoughts, especially in the early stages. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | As this medicine may affect the child, it is essential to discuss it with the doctor. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or dyes | To be aware of the possibility of an allergic reaction to the medicine. |
The medicine should be used in the right way.
It is very important to take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Take the pill with a glass of water.
- Never break, crush, or chew this tablet. Swallow the tablet whole.
- You can take it before or after meals. If you experience stomach discomfort, take it with food.
- Take your medicine at the right time, at the right intervals. Do not take more than the doctor tells you to.
- Most importantly, do not stop taking the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause serious side effects or worsen your condition.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, skip it. Take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Don't take this lightly.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
When taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Some medicines can interact with this medicine and cause dangerous side effects.
| Medicines that should absolutely NOT be taken together (Absolutely DO NOT take with) | |
|---|---|
| A type of antidepressant called MAOIs (e.g. Marplan, Nardil, Parnate) | A serious, life-threatening reaction may occur. Do not start this medicine within 14 days of stopping an MAOI. |
| Linezolid or Methylene blue (intravenously) | Very severe reactions can occur. |
| Other medications containing bupropion (e.g., Wellbutrin) or dextromethorphan (e.g., Robitussin) | Causes an unnecessary increase in the dose of the drug (overdose). |
| Other potential interactions | |
| Alcohol | Definitely stop. It greatly increases the risk of seizures. |
| Medication for anxiety or sleep | Excessive drowsiness and other side effects may occur. |
| Other antidepressants, HIV/AIDS medications, heart rhythm disorders medications, Parkinson's disease medications, seizure medications, Warfarin, Tramadol, and many other medications | This list is not complete. Therefore, tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. |
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
It may take a few weeks for this medicine to take full effect. So, continue taking it without stopping. But, take good care of your body and mind during this time.
Be aware of suicidal thoughts.
Especially in young people and when starting treatment, thoughts of suicide or harming yourself may increase. If you notice any sudden changes (worsening) in your mood, behavior, or thoughts, tell your doctor or a loved one right away .
Mood swings (Mania)
If someone with bipolar disorder takes this medication, they may experience a manic episode. This means they may experience symptoms such as extreme restlessness, agitation, hyperactivity, insomnia, and erratic behavior. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately.
Serious skin reactions
Although rare, this medicine can cause a severe skin reaction. If you experience fever, body aches, red, scaly skin, blistering, or peeling skin, it could be a serious condition. Seek immediate medical attention.
Be careful when driving and operating heavy machinery!
This medicine may make you feel sleepy, dizzy, or have difficulty concentrating. Therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know exactly how this medicine affects you.
Possible side effects of the medicine
Like all medications, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| If you have these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| |
| Symptoms that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
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Take-Home Message
- This is a powerful medication for depression. Always use only under medical advice.
- Never share your medicine with anyone else. It can be dangerous.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about every illness you have and every medication you take.
- Pay special attention to your mood and thoughts when you first start taking the medication. If you notice any changes, tell your doctor immediately.
- Do not drink alcohol for any reason while taking this medicine.
- Avoid stopping the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
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