Mechanism of Action of Bupropion

Neurochemical Effects

• Bupropion administration leads to increased activation of anorexigenic neurons in the hypothalamus 1

Receptor Interactions

• The American College of Cardiology notes that bupropion activates the central nervous system to release norepinephrine, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters 2

Clinical Implications of Mechanism

• Bupropion is considered weight-neutral or weight-loss promoting due to its effects on hypothalamic neurons 3

Mechanism of Action of Bupropion

Hypothalamic Effects

• Bupropion activates anorexigenic (appetite-suppressing) neurons in the hypothalamus, which contributes to its weight-neutral or weight-loss promoting effects, according to the Gastroenterology journal 4
• When combined with naltrexone for weight management, the opioid antagonist blocks β-endorphin's auto-inhibitory effects on hypothalamic neurons, enhancing bupropion's anorectic properties, as noted in the Gastroenterology journal 4