Bupropion Dosage: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been prescribed bupropion, you probably wonder how much to take and how to avoid side effects. The good news is that dosing follows a simple pattern: start low, go slow, and adjust based on how you feel. Below we break down the usual doses for depression and smoking cessation, plus tips for special situations like kidney problems or older age.

Standard Dosing for Depression and Smoking Cessation

For major depressive disorder, doctors typically begin with 150 mg once daily for the first three days. After that, the dose is raised to 300 mg daily, split into two doses (150 mg in the morning and 150 mg in the evening). If you’re switching to the extended‑release (SR) or sustained‑release (XL) form, the numbers change a bit: a common start is 150 mg once daily for the SR version, then up to 300 mg once daily after a week.

When bupropion is used to help quit smoking, the starting point is usually the same 150 mg/day for three days, then 300 mg/day (150 mg twice a day) for the rest of the treatment. Some doctors keep the dose at 150 mg twice a day if you experience strong side effects.

Adjusting the Dose for Special Situations

Older adults (65+ years) often start at a lower dose—sometimes 75 mg twice daily—because they process the drug more slowly. If you have liver or kidney issues, your doctor might keep you at the 150 mg twice‑daily level or even lower, depending on test results.

People who are prone to seizures need extra caution. Bupropion can raise seizure risk, especially at doses above 450 mg per day. If you have a history of seizures, a clinician may stay at or below 300 mg daily.

Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. In that case, just skip the missed one—don’t double up. Doubling can increase side effects like insomnia, dry mouth, or a racing heart.

Common side effects—headache, dry mouth, insomnia—often ease after a week or two. If they persist, talk to your doctor about slowing the titration or trying a different formulation.

Always check for drug interactions. Bupropion can boost the levels of certain meds (like some antidepressants and antipsychotics) and be affected by others (like monoamine oxidase inhibitors). A quick pharmacy review can catch problems before they become serious.

Bottom line: start low, follow the schedule your prescriber gave you, and report any uncomfortable symptoms promptly. With the right dose, bupropion can lift mood, curb cravings, and fit into daily life without a lot of hassle.