Bupropion ER Discontinuation Guidelines

Rationale for Gradual Tapering

• Gradual tapering of bupropion helps minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms and potential relapse, as recommended by the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 1

Monitoring During Tapering

• Patients undergoing bupropion tapering should be monitored for potential withdrawal symptoms, including irritability or mood changes, as noted by the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 1
• Sleep disturbances and anxiety are potential withdrawal symptoms during bupropion tapering, according to Gastroenterology 2
• Fatigue is a possible withdrawal symptom during bupropion tapering, as reported in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology 3

Special Considerations

• When bupropion is used as part of a combination therapy, such as naltrexone-bupropion ER for weight management, the same tapering principles apply, as suggested by Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2, 3

Important Caveats

• If withdrawal symptoms emerge during tapering, consider slowing the taper rate, as advised by the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 1