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Review: Bupropion and SSRI-induced side effects
1University Psychiatric Center KuLeuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium. koen.demyttenaere@med.kuleuven.be
Journal of Psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
|March 1, 2008
Summary
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can cause sexual dysfunction and weight gain. Bupropion may offer a better side effect profile and potentially reverse SSRI-induced issues.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely prescribed antidepressants.
- Despite efficacy, SSRIs can cause side effects like sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and emotional detachment.
- These side effects may reduce patient quality of life and treatment adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence of sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and emotional detachment during SSRI treatment.
- To examine the side effect profile of bupropion concerning these SSRI-induced events.
- To assess bupropion's potential to reverse SSRI-induced side effects.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of double-blind trials, open-label trials, and anecdotal reports from Medline.
- Analysis of evidence regarding SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and emotional detachment.
- Evaluation of bupropion's efficacy and tolerability compared to SSRIs for these side effects.
Main Results:
- SSRIs are robustly linked to sexual side effects; bupropion demonstrates a lower incidence.
- Limited evidence suggests bupropion may reverse SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction.
- SSRIs are associated with weight gain, while bupropion may cause slight weight loss; anecdotal evidence for bupropion reversing SSRI weight gain exists.
- Controversy surrounds SSRI-induced 'emotional detachment,' with no data on bupropion's profile or reversal effects.
Conclusions:
- Bupropion appears to have a more favorable side effect profile regarding sexual dysfunction and weight compared to SSRIs.
- Further research is needed to confirm bupropion's efficacy in reversing SSRI-induced side effects, particularly emotional detachment.
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