BUPROPION HYDROCHLORIDE  XL - bupropion hydrochloride tablet, film coated, extended release 
Bryant Ranch Prepack

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WARNING

Suicidality and Antidepressant Drugs

Antidepressants increased the risk compared to placebo of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies of major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) or any other antidepressant in a child, adolescent, or young adult must balance this risk with the clinical need. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older. Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are not approved for use in pediatric patients. (See Use in Treating Psychiatric Disorders:WARNINGS: Clinical Worsening and Suicide Risk in Treating Psychiatric Disorders,PRECAUTIONS: Information for Patients, andPRECAUTIONS: Pediatric Use.)

Wellbutrin , Wellbutrin SR , and bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are not approved for smoking cessation treatment, but bupropion under the name Zyban is approved for this use. Serious neuropsychiatric events, including but not limited to depression, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and completed suicide have been reported in patients taking bupropion for smoking cessation. Some cases may have been complicated by the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal in patients who stopped smoking. Depressed mood may be a symptom of nicotine withdrawal. Depression, rarely including suicidal ideation, has been reported in smokers undergoing a smoking cessation attempt without medication. However, some of these symptoms have occurred in patients taking bupropion who continued to smoke. Use in Smoking Cessation Treatment:®*®*®*

All patients treated with bupropion for smoking cessation treatment should be observed for neuropsychiatric symptoms including changes in behavior, hostility, agitation, depressed mood, and suicide-related events, including ideation, behavior, and attempted suicide. These symptoms, as well as worsening of pre-existing psychiatric illness and completed suicide have been reported in some patients attempting to quit smoking while taking Zyban in the postmarketing experience. When symptoms were reported, most were during treatment with Zyban , but some were following discontinuation of treatment with Zyban . These events have occurred in patients with and without pre-existing psychiatric disease; some have experienced worsening of their psychiatric illnesses. Patients with serious psychiatric illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder did not participate in the pre-marketing studies of Zyban . ®*®*®*®*

In many post-marketing cases, resolution of symptoms after discontinuation of Zyban was reported, although in some cases the symptoms persisted; therefore, ongoing monitoring and supportive care should be provided until symptoms resolve. Advise patients and caregivers that the patient using bupropion for smoking cessation should stop taking bupropion and contact a healthcare provider immediately if agitation, hostility, depressed mood, or changes in thinking or behavior that are not typical for the patient are observed, or if the patient develops suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior.®*

The risks of using bupropion for smoking cessation should be weighed against the benefits of its use. Zyban has been demonstrated to increase the likelihood of abstinence from smoking for as long as six months compared to treatment with placebo. The health benefits of quitting smoking are immediate and substantial. (See ®*WARNINGS: Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Suicide Risk in Smoking Cessation TreatmentandPRECAUTIONS: Information for Patients.)

DESCRIPTION

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL), an antidepressant of the aminoketone class, is chemically unrelated to tricyclic, tetracyclic, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, or other known antidepressant agents. Its structure closely resembles that of diethylpropion; it is related to phenylethylamines. It is designated as (±)-1-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-[(1,1-dimethylethyl)amino]-1propanone hydrochloride. The molecular weight is 276.2. The molecular formula is C H ClNO•HCl. Bupropion hydrochloride powder is white, crystalline, and highly soluble in water. It has a bitter taste and produces the sensation of local anesthesia on the oral mucosa. The structural formula is: 1318

Bupropion hydrochloride structural formula

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are supplied for oral administration as 150 mg and 300 mg, white to off-white extended-release tablets. Each tablet contains the labeled amount of bupropion hydrochloride and the inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, ethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, methacrylic acid copolymer, microcrystalline cellulose, stearic acid, talc, titanium dioxide, hydrochloric acid and triethyl citrate. The tablets are printed with edible black ink. USP drug release test is pending.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Major Depressive Disorder:

The efficacy of bupropion in the treatment of a major depressive episode was established in two 4-week controlled trials of inpatients and in one 6-week controlled trial of outpatients whose diagnoses corresponded most closely to the Major Depression category of the APA Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) (see ). CLINICAL TRIALS

A major depressive episode (DSM-IV) implies the presence of 1) depressed mood or 2) loss of interest or pleasure; in addition, at least 5 of the following symptoms have been present during the same 2-week period and represent a change from previous functioning: depressed mood, markedly diminished interest or pleasure in usual activities, significant change in weight and/or appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation or retardation, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or impaired concentration, a suicide attempt, or suicidal ideation.

The efficacy of bupropion in maintaining an antidepressant response for up to 44 weeks following 8 weeks of acute treatment was demonstrated in a placebo-controlled trial with the sustained-release formulation of bupropion (see ). Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) for extended periods should periodically reevaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient. CLINICAL TRIALS

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are indicated for the prevention of seasonal major depressive episodes in patients with a diagnosis of seasonal affective disorder. Seasonal Affective Disorder:

The efficacy of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) for the prevention of seasonal major depressive episodes was established in 3 controlled trials of adult outpatients with a history of major depressive disorder with an autumn-winter seasonal pattern as defined by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) criteria (see ). CLINICAL TRIALS

Seasonal affective disorder is characterized by recurrent major depressive episodes, most commonly occurring during the autumn and/or winter months. Episodes may last up to 6 months in duration, typically beginning in the autumn and remitting in the springtime. Although patients with seasonal affective disorder may have depressive episodes during other times of the year, the diagnosis of seasonal affective disorder requires that the number of seasonal episodes substantially outnumber the number of non-seasonal episodes during the individual's lifetime.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are contraindicated in patients with a seizure disorder.

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are contraindicated in patients treated with ZYBAN (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (SR); WELLBUTRIN (bupropion hydrochloride tablets), the immediate-release formulation; WELLBUTRIN SR (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (SR)), the sustained-release formulation; or any other medications that contain bupropion because the incidence of seizure is dose dependent. ®*®*®*

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are contraindicated in patients with a current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa because of a higher incidence of seizures noted in patients treated for bulimia with the immediate-release formulation of bupropion.

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are contraindicated in patients undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol or sedatives (including benzodiazepines).

The concurrent administration of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) and a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor is contraindicated. At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuation of an MAO inhibitor and initiation of treatment with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL).

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are contraindicated in patients who have shown an allergic response to bupropion or the other ingredients that make up bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL).

WARNINGS

PRECAUTIONS

General

Information for Patients

Prescribers or other health professionals should inform patients, their families, and their caregivers about the benefits and risks associated with treatment with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) and should counsel them in its appropriate use. A patient Medication Guide about “Antidepressant Medicines, Depression and Other Serious Mental Illnesses, and Suicidal Thoughts or Actions”, “Quitting Smoking, Quit-Smoking Medication, Changes in Thinking and Behavior, Depression, and Suicidal Thoughts or Actions”, and “What Other Important Information Should I Know About bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?” is available for bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL). The prescriber or health professional should instruct patients, their families, and their caregivers to read the Medication Guide and should assist them in understanding its contents. Patients should be given the opportunity to discuss the contents of the Medication Guide and to obtain answers to any questions they may have. The complete text of the Medication Guide is reprinted at the end of this document.

Patients should be advised of the following issues and asked to alert their prescriber if these occur while taking bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL).

Patients, their families, and their caregivers should be encouraged to be alert to the emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania, mania, other unusual changes in behavior, worsening of depression, and suicidal ideation, especially early during antidepressant treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down. Families and caregivers of patients should be advised to look for the emergence of such symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt. Such symptoms should be reported to the patient's prescriber or health professional, especially if they are severe, abrupt in onset, or were not part of the patient's presenting symptoms. Symptoms such as these may be associated with an increased risk for suicidal thinking and behavior and indicate a need for very close monitoring and possibly changes in the medication. Clinical Worsening and Suicide Risk in Treating Psychiatric Disorders:

Although bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are not indicated for smoking cessation treatment, it contains the same active ingredient as ZYBAN which is approved for this use. Patients should be informed that quitting smoking, with or without ZYBAN , may be associated with nicotine withdrawal symptoms (including depression or agitation), or exacerbation of pre-existing psychiatric illness. Furthermore, some patients have experienced changes in mood (including depression and mania), psychosis, hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, homicidal ideation, aggression, anxiety, and panic, as well as suicidal ideation, suicide attempt and completed suicide when attempting to quit smoking while taking ZYBAN . If patients develop agitation, hostility, depressed mood, or changes in thinking or behavior that are not typical for them, or if patients develop suicidal ideation or behavior, they should be urged to report these symptoms to their healthcare provider immediately. Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Suicide Risk in Smoking Cessation Treatment:®*®*®*

Patients should be made aware that bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) contain the same active ingredient found in ZYBAN , used as an aid to smoking cessation treatment, and that bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) should not be used in combination with ZYBAN , or any other medications that contain bupropion (such as WELLBUTRIN SR (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (SR), the sustained-release formulation, or WELLBUTRIN (bupropion hydrochloride tablets), the immediate-release formulation. Bupropion-Containing Products:®*®*®*®*

Patients should be told that bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) should be discontinued and not restarted if they experience a seizure while on treatment.

Patients should be told that any CNS-active drug like bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) may impair their ability to perform tasks requiring judgment or motor and cognitive skills. Consequently, until they are reasonably certain that bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) do not adversely affect their performance, they should refrain from driving an automobile or operating complex, hazardous machinery.

Patients should be told that the excessive use or abrupt discontinuation of alcohol or sedatives (including benzodiazepines) may alter the seizure threshold. Some patients have reported lower alcohol tolerance during treatment with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL). Patients should be advised that the consumption of alcohol should be minimized or avoided.

Patients should be advised to inform their physicians if they are taking or plan to take any prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Concern is warranted because bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) and other drugs may affect each other’s metabolism.

Patients should be advised to notify their physicians if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during therapy.

Patients should be advised to swallow bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) whole so that the release rate is not altered. Do not chew, divide, or crush tablets, as this may lead to an increased risk of adverse effects, including seizures.

Laboratory Tests

There are no specific laboratory tests recommended.

Drug Interactions

Few systemic data have been collected on the metabolism of bupropion following concomitant administration with other drugs or, alternatively, the effect of concomitant administration of bupropion on the metabolism of other drugs.

Because bupropion is extensively metabolized, the coadministration of other drugs may affect its clinical activity. studies indicate that bupropion is primarily metabolized to hydroxybupropion by the CYP2B6 isoenzyme. Therefore, the potential exists for a drug interaction between bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) and drugs that are substrates of or inhibitors/inducers of the CYP2B6 isoenzyme (e.g., orphenadrine, thiotepa, cyclophosphamide, ticlopidine, and clopidogrel). In addition, studies suggest that paroxetine, sertraline, norfluoxetine, and fluvoxamine as well as nelfinavir and efavirenz inhibit the hydroxylation of bupropion. No clinical studies have been performed to evaluate this finding. The threohydrobupropion metabolite of bupropion does not appear to be produced by the cytochrome P450 isoenzymes. The effects of concomitant administration of cimetidine on the pharmacokinetics of bupropion and its active metabolites were studied in 24 healthy young male volunteers. Following oral administration of two 150 mg tablets of the sustained-release formulation of bupropion with and without 800 mg of cimetidine, the pharmacokinetics of bupropion and hydroxybupropion were unaffected. However, there were 16% and 32% increases in the AUC and C , respectively, of the combined moieties of threohydrobupropion and erythrohydrobupropion. In vitroin vitromax

In a series of studies in healthy volunteers, ritonavir (100 mg twice daily or 600 mg twice daily) or ritonavir 100 mg plus lopinavir (KALETRA) 400 mg twice daily reduced the exposure of bupropion and its major metabolites in a dose dependent manner by approximately 20% to 80%. This effect is thought to be due to the induction of bupropion metabolism. Patients receiving ritonavir may need increased doses of bupropion, but the maximum recommended dose of bupropion should not be exceeded (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: ). Metabolism

While not systematically studied, certain drugs may induce the metabolism of bupropion (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin).

Multiple oral doses of bupropion had no statistically significant effects on the single dose pharmacokinetics of lamotrigine in 12 healthy volunteers.

Animal data indicated that bupropion may be an inducer of drug-metabolizing enzymes in humans. In one study, following chronic administration of bupropion, 100 mg 3 times daily to 8 healthy male volunteers for 14 days, there was no evidence of induction of its own metabolism. Nevertheless, there may be the potential for clinically important alterations of blood levels of coadministered drugs.

Many drugs, including most antidepressants (SSRIs, many tricyclics), beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics, and antipsychotics are metabolized by the CYP2D6 isoenzyme. Although bupropion is not metabolized by this isoenzyme, bupropion and hydroxybupropion are inhibitors of CYP2D6 isoenzyme In a study of 15 male subjects (ages 19 to 35 years) who were extensive metabolizers of the CYP2D6 isoenzyme, daily doses of bupropion given as 150 mg twice daily followed by a single dose of 50 mg desipramine increased the C , AUC, and t of desipramine by an average of approximately 2-, 5-, and 2-fold, respectively. The effect was present for at least 7 days after the last dose of bupropion. Concomitant use of bupropion with other drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 has not been formally studied. Drugs Metabolized By Cytochrome P450IID6 (CYP2D6):in vitro.max½

Therefore, coadministration of bupropion with drugs that are metabolized by CYP2D6 isoenzyme including certain antidepressants (e.g., nortriptyline, imipramine, desipramine, paroxetine, fluoxetine, sertraline), antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone, thioridazine), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), and Type 1C antiarrhythmics (e.g., propafenone, flecainide), should be approached with caution and should be initiated at the lower end of the dose range of the concomitant medication. If bupropion is added to the treatment regimen of a patient already receiving a drug metabolized by CYP2D6, the need to decrease the dose of the original medication should be considered, particularly for those concomitant medications with a narrow therapeutic index. Although citalopram is not primarily metabolized by CYP2D6, in one study bupropion increased the C and AUC of citalopram by 30% and 40%, respectively. Citalopram did not affect the pharmacokinetics of bupropion and its three metabolites. max

Studies in animals demonstrate that the acute toxicity of bupropion is enhanced by the MAO inhibitor phenelzine (see ). MAO Inhibitors:CONTRAINDICATIONS

Limited clinical data suggest a higher incidence of adverse experiences in patients receiving bupropion concurrently with either levodopa or amantadine. Administration of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) to patients receiving either levodopa or amantadine concurrently should be undertaken with caution, using small initial doses and gradual dose increases. Levodopa and Amantadine:

Concurrent administration of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) and agents (e.g., antipsychotics, other antidepressants, theophylline, systemic steroids, etc.) that lower seizure threshold should be undertaken only with extreme caution (see ). Low initial dosing and gradual dose increases should be employed. Drugs That Lower Seizure Threshold:WARNINGS

(see ). Nicotine Transdermal System:PRECAUTIONS: Cardiovascular Effects

In postmarketing experience, there have been rare reports of adverse neuropsychiatric events or reduced alcohol tolerance in patients who were drinking alcohol during treatment with bupropion. The consumption of alcohol during treatment with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) should be minimized or avoided (also see ). Alcohol:CONTRAINDICATIONS

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Lifetime carcinogenicity studies were performed in rats and mice at doses up to 300 and 150 mg/kg/day, respectively. These doses are approximately 7 and 2 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), respectively, on a mg/m basis. In the rat study there was an increase in nodular proliferative lesions of the liver at doses of 100 to 300 mg/kg/day (approximately 2 to 7 times the MRHD on a mg/m basis); lower doses were not tested. The question of whether or not such lesions may be precursors of neoplasms of the liver is currently unresolved. Similar liver lesions were not seen in the mouse study, and no increase in malignant tumors of the liver and other organs was seen in either study. 22

Bupropion produced a positive response (2 to 3 times control mutation rate) in 2 of 5 strains in the Ames bacterial mutagenicity test and an increase in chromosomal aberrations in 1 of 3 rat bone marrow cytogenetic studies. in vivo

A fertility study in rats at doses up to 300 mg/kg/day revealed no evidence of impaired fertility.

Pregnancy

Teratogenic Effects

Pregnancy Category C. In studies conducted in rats and rabbits, bupropion was administered orally at doses up to 450 and 150 mg/kg/day, respectively (approximately 11 and 7 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD], respectively, on a mg/m basis), during the period of organogenesis. No clear evidence of teratogenic activity was found in either species; however, in rabbits, slightly increased incidences of fetal malformations and skeletal variations were observed at the lowest dose tested (25 mg/kg/day, approximately equal to the MRHD on a mg/m basis) and greater. Decreased fetal weights were seen at 50 mg/kg and greater. 22

When rats were administered bupropion at oral doses of up to 300 mg/kg/day (approximately 7 times the MRHD on a mg/m basis) prior to mating and throughout pregnancy and lactation, there were no apparent adverse effects on offspring development. 2

One study has been conducted in pregnant women. This retrospective, managed-care database study assessed the risk of congenital malformations overall, and cardiovascular malformations specifically, following exposure to bupropion in the first trimester compared to the risk of these malformations following exposure to other antidepressants in the first trimester and bupropion outside of the first trimester. This study included 7,005 infants with antidepressant exposure during pregnancy, 1,213 of whom were exposed to bupropion in the first trimester. The study showed no greater risk for congenital malformations overall, or cardiovascular malformations specifically, following first trimester bupropion exposure compared to exposure to all other antidepressants in the first trimester, or bupropion outside of the first trimester. The results of this study have not been corroborated. Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Labor and Delivery

The effect of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) on labor and delivery in humans is unknown.

Nursing Mothers

Like many other drugs, bupropion and its metabolites are secreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL), a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in the pediatric population have not been established (see and ). Anyone considering the use of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) in a child or adolescent must balance the potential risks with the clinical need. BOX WARNINGWARNINGS: Clinical Worsening and Suicide Risk in Treating Psychiatric Disorders

Geriatric Use

Of the approximately 6,000 patients who participated in clinical trials with bupropion sustained-release tablets (depression and smoking cessation studies), 275 were ≥65 years old and 47 were ≥75 years old. In addition, several hundred patients 65 and over participated in clinical trials using the immediate-release formulation of bupropion (depression studies). No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects. Reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

A single-dose pharmacokinetic study demonstrated that the disposition of bupropion and its metabolites in elderly subjects was similar to that of younger subjects; however, another pharmacokinetic study, single and multiple dose, has suggested that the elderly are at increased risk for accumulation of bupropion and its metabolites (see ). CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Bupropion is extensively metabolized in the liver to active metabolites, which are further metabolized and excreted by the kidneys. The risk of toxic reaction to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function (see and ). PRECAUTIONS: Renal ImpairmentDOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

ADVERSE REACTIONS

(See also and ). WARNINGSPRECAUTIONS

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) have been demonstrated to have similar bioavailability both to the immediate-release formulation of bupropion and to the sustained-release formulation of bupropion (see ). The information included under this subsection is based primarily on data from controlled clinical trials with the sustained-release formulation of bupropion. Major Depressive Disorder:CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

In placebo-controlled clinical trials, 9% and 11% of patients treated with 300 and 400 mg/day, respectively, of the sustained-release formulation of bupropion and 4% of patients treated with placebo discontinued treatment due to adverse events. The specific adverse events in these trials that led to discontinuation in at least 1% of patients treated with either 300 mg/day or 400 mg/day of the sustained-release formulation of bupropion, and at a rate at least twice the placebo rate are listed in Table 6. Adverse Events Leading to Discontinuation of Treatment With the Immediate-Release or Sustained-Release Formulation of Bupropion:

Table 6. Treatment Discontinuations Due to Adverse Events in Placebo-Controlled Trials for Major Depressive Disorder
 Adverse Event Term Bupropion Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Formulation Bupropion Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Formulation Placebo
  300 mg/day 400 mg/day 
  (n = 376) (n = 114) (n = 385)
 Rash 2.4% 0.9% 0.0%
 Nausea 0.8% 1.8% 0.3%
 Agitation 0.3% 1.8% 0.3%
 Migraine 0.0% 1.8% 0.3%

In clinical trials with the immediate-release formulation of bupropion, 10% of patients and volunteers discontinued due to an adverse event. Events resulting in discontinuation, in addition to those listed above for the sustained-release formulation of bupropion, include vomiting, seizures, and sleep disturbances.

Table 7 enumerates treatment-emergent adverse events that occurred among patients treated with 300 and 400 mg/day of the sustained-release formulation of bupropion and with placebo in controlled trials. Events that occurred in either the 300 or 400 mg/day group at an incidence of 1% or more and were more frequent than in the placebo group are included. Reported adverse events were classified using a COSTART-based Dictionary. Adverse Events Occurring at an Incidence of 1% or More Among Patients Treated With Immediate and Sustained Release Formulations of Bupropion:

Accurate estimates of the incidence of adverse events associated with the use of any drug are difficult to obtain. Estimates are influenced by drug dose, detection technique, setting, physician judgments, etc. The figures cited cannot be used to predict precisely the incidence of untoward events in the course of usual medical practice where patient characteristics and other factors differ from those that prevailed in the clinical trials. These incidence figures also cannot be compared with those obtained from other clinical studies involving related drug products as each group of drug trials is conducted under a different set of conditions.

Finally, it is important to emphasize that the tabulation does not reflect the relative severity and/or clinical importance of the events. A better perspective on the serious adverse events associated with the use of bupropion is provided in the and sections. WARNINGSPRECAUTIONS

Table 7. Treatment-Emergent Adverse Events in Placebo-Controlled Trials for Major Depressive Disorder *
 Body System/ Adverse Event
 Bupropion Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Formulation 300 mg/day (n=376)




 Bupropion Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Formulation 400 mg/day (n=114)




 Placebo (n=385)




  Adverse events that occurred in at least 1% of patients treated with either 300 or 400 mg/day of the sustained-release formulation of bupropion, but equally or more frequently in the placebo group, were: abnormal dreams, accidental injury, acne, appetite increased, back pain, bronchitis, dysmenorrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, flu syndrome, hypertension, neck pain, respiratory disorder, rhinitis, and tooth disorder. *
  Incidence based on the number of female patients.
 - Hyphen denotes adverse events occurring in greater than 0 but less than 0.5% of patients.
 Body (General)   
   Headache 26% 25% 23%
   Infection 8% 9% 6%
   Abdominal pain 3% 9% 2%
   Asthenia 2% 4% 2%
   Chest pain 3% 4% 1%
   Pain 2% 3% 2%
   Fever 1% 2% -
 Cardiovascular   
   Palpitation 2% 6% 2%
   Flushing 1% 4% -
   Migraine 1% 4% 1%
   Hot flashes 1% 3% 1%
 Digestive   
   Dry mouth 17% 24% 7%
   Nausea 13% 18% 8%
   Constipation 10% 5% 7%
   Diarrhea 5% 7% 6%
   Anorexia 5% 3% 2%
   Vomiting 4% 2% 2%
   Dysphagia 0% 2% 0%
 Musculoskeletal   
   Myalgia 2% 6% 3%
   Arthralgia 1% 4% 1%
   Arthritis 0% 2% 0%
   Twitch 1% 2% -
 Nervous  system   
   Insomnia 11% 16% 6%
   Dizziness 7% 11% 5%
   Agitation 3% 9% 2%
   Anxiety 5% 6% 3%
   Tremor 6% 3% 1%
   Nervousness 5% 3% 3%
   Somnolence 2% 3% 2%
   Irritability 3% 2% 2%
   Memory decreased - 3% 1%
   Paresthesia 1% 2% 1%
   Central nervous     system stimulation
 2% 1% 1%
 Respiratory   
   Pharyngitis 3% 11% 2%
   Sinusitis 3% 1% 2%
   Increased cough 1% 2% 1%
 Skin   
   Sweating 6% 5% 2%
   Rash 5% 4% 1%
   Pruritus 2% 4% 2%
   Urticaria 2% 1% 0%
 Special senses   
   Tinnitus 6% 6% 2%
   Taste perversion 2% 4% -
   Blurred vision or diplopia 3% 2% 2%
 Urogenital   
   Urinary frequency 2% 5% 2%
   Urinary urgency - 2% 0%
   Vaginal hemorrhage  0% 2% -
   Urinary tract infection 1% 0% -

Additional events to those listed in Table 7 that occurred at an incidence of at least 1% in controlled clinical trials of the immediate-release formulation of bupropion (300 to 600 mg/day) and that were numerically more frequent than placebo were: cardiac arrhythmias (5% vs 4%), hypertension (4% vs 2%), hypotension (3% vs 2%), tachycardia (11% vs 9%), appetite increase (4% vs 2%), dyspepsia (3% vs 2%), menstrual complaints (5% vs 1%), akathisia (2% vs 1%), impaired sleep quality (4% vs 2%), sensory disturbance (4% vs 3%), confusion (8% vs 5%), decreased libido (3% vs 2%), hostility (6% vs 4%), auditory disturbance (5% vs 3%), and gustatory disturbance (3% vs 1%).

Adverse events from Table 7 occurring in at least 5% of patients treated with the sustained-release formulation of bupropion and at a rate at least twice the placebo rate are listed below for the 300 and 400 mg/day dose groups. Incidence of Commonly Observed Adverse Events in Controlled Clinical Trials:

Anorexia, dry mouth, rash, sweating, tinnitus, and tremor. 300 mg/day of the Sustained-Release Formulation:

Abdominal pain, agitation, anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia, myalgia, nausea, palpitation, pharyngitis, sweating, tinnitus, and urinary frequency. 400 mg/day of the Sustained-Release Formulation:

In placebo-controlled clinical trials, 9% of patients treated with the extended-release formulation of bupropion and 5% of patients treated with placebo discontinued treatment due to adverse events. The adverse events in these trials that led to discontinuation in at least 1% of patients treated with the extended-release formulation of bupropion and at a rate numerically greater than the placebo rate are insomnia (2% vs <1%) and headache (1% vs <1%). Seasonal Affective Disorder: Adverse Events Leading to Discontinuation of Treatment With Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (XL):

Table 8 enumerates treatment-emergent adverse events that occurred among patients treated with the extended-release formulation of bupropion for up to approximately 6 months in 3 placebo-controlled trials. Events that occurred at an incidence of 2% or more and were more frequent than in the placebo group are included. Reported adverse events were classified using a MedDRA-based Dictionary. Adverse Events Occurring at an Incidence of 2% or More Among Patients Treated With Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (XL):

Accurate estimates of the incidence of adverse events associated with the use of any drug are difficult to obtain. Estimates are influenced by drug dose, detection technique, setting, physician judgments, etc. The figures cited cannot be used to predict precisely the incidence of untoward events in the course of usual medical practice where patient characteristics and other factors differ from those that prevailed in the clinical trials. These incidence figures also cannot be compared with those obtained from other clinical studies involving related drug products as each group of drug trials is conducted under a different set of conditions; e.g., different patient populations, different treatment durations.

Finally, it is important to emphasize that the tabulation does not reflect the relative severity and/or clinical importance of the events. A better perspective on the serious adverse events associated with the use of bupropion is provided in the WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS sections.

Table 8. Treatment-Emergent Adverse Events in Placebo-Controlled Trials of Seasonal Affective Disorder *
 System Organ Class/ Preferred Term
 Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Formulation  (n=537)



 Placebo (n=511)




  Adverse events that occurred in at least 2% of patients treated with the extended-release formulation of bupropion, but equally or more frequently in the placebo group, were: abdominal pain upper, arthralgia, back pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, fatigue, gastroenteritis viral, hyperhidrosis, influenza, irritability, migraine, nasal congestion, neck pain, palpitations, pharyngolaryngeal pain, sinus congestion. *
 Gastrointestinal Disorder  
   Dry Mouth 26% 15%
   Nausea 13% 8%
   Constipation 9% 2%
   Flatulence 6% 3%
   Abdominal pain 2% <1%
 Nervous System Disorders  
   Headache 34% 26%
   Dizziness 6% 5%
   Tremor 3% <1%
 Infections and Infestations  
   Nasopharyngitis 13% 12%
   Upper respiratory tract infection 9% 8%
   Sinusitis 5% 4%
 Psychiatric Disorders  
   Insomnia 20% 13%
   Anxiety 7% 5%
   Abnormal dreams 3% 2%
   Agitation 2% <1%
 Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders  
   Myalgia 3% 3%
   Pain in extremity 2% 2%
 Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders  
   Cough 4% 3%
 General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions  
   Feeling jittery 3% 2%
 Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders  
   Rash 3% 2%
 Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders  
   Decreased appetite 4% 1%
 Reproductive System and Breast Disorders  
   Dysmenorrhea 2% <1%
 Ear and Labyrinth Disorders  
   Tinnitus 3% <1%
 Vascular Disorders  
   Hypertension 2% 0%

Adverse events from Table 8 that occurred in at least 5% of patients treated with the extended-release formulation of bupropion and at a rate at least twice the placebo rate were constipation and flatulence. Incidence of Commonly Observed Adverse Events in Controlled Clinical Trials:

Adverse events with onset during the 2 weeks following down-titration of the extended-release formulation of bupropion from 300 mg/day to 150 mg/day were reported by 14% of patients compared to 18% of patients who continued on placebo. Adverse Events During Taper or Following Discontinuation of the Extended-Release Formulation of Bupropion:

Adverse events with onset during the 2 weeks following discontinuation of the extended-release formulation of bupropion were reported by 9% of patients compared with 12% of patients following discontinuation of placebo.

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE

OVERDOSAGE

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

MEDICATION GUIDE

BuPROPion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (XL)

Read this Medication Guide carefully before you start using bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment. If you have any questions about bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL), ask your doctor or pharmacist.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to read the three sections of this Medication Guide. The first section is about the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions with antidepressant medicines; the second section is about the risk of changes in thinking and behavior, depression and suicidal thoughts or actions with medicines used to quit smoking; and the third section is entitled “What Other Important Information Should I Know About bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?” 

Antidepressant Medicines, Depression and Other Serious Mental Illnesses, and Suicidal Thoughts or Actions

This section of the Medication Guide is only about the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions with antidepressant medicines. Talk to your doctor, or your family member’s, healthcare provider about:

What is the most important information I should know about antidepressant medicines, depression and other serious mental illnesses, and suicidal thoughts or actions?

  1. Antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, and young adults within the first few months of treatment.

  2. These include people who have (or have a family history of) bipolar illness (also called manic-depressive illness) or suicidal thoughts or actions. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts and actions. Some people may have a particularly high risk of having suicidal thoughts or actions.

  3. How can I watch for and try to prevent suicidal thoughts and actions in myself or a family member?

    • Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is very important when an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed.

    • Call the healthcare provider right away to report new or sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings.

    • Keep all follow-up visits with the healthcare provider as scheduled. Call the healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you have concerns about symptoms.

Call a healthcare provider right away if you or your family member has any of the following symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you:

What else do I need to know about antidepressant medicines?

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) have not been studied in children under the age of 18 and are not approved for use in children and teenagers.

Quitting Smoking, Quit-Smoking Medications, Changes in Thinking and Behavior, Depression, and Suicidal Thoughts or Actions

This section of the Medication Guide is only about the risk of changes in thinking and behavior, depression and suicidal thoughts or actions with drugs used to quit smoking.

Although Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are not a treatment for quitting smoking, it contains the same active ingredient (bupropion hydrochloride) as ZYBAN which is used to help patients quit smoking. ®*

Some people have had changes in behavior, hostility, agitation, depression, suicidal thoughts or actions while taking bupropion to help them quit smoking. These symptoms can develop during treatment with bupropion or after stopping treatment with bupropion.

If you, your family member, or your caregiver notice agitation, hostility, depression, or changes in thinking or behavior that are not typical for you, or you have any of the following symptoms, stop taking bupropion and call your healthcare provider right away:

When you try to quit smoking, with or without bupropion, you may have symptoms that may be due to nicotine withdrawal, including urge to smoke, depressed mood, trouble sleeping, irritability, frustration, anger, feeling anxious, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, decreased heart rate, and increased appetite or weight gain. Some people have even experienced suicidal thoughts when trying to quit smoking without medication. Sometimes quitting smoking can lead to worsening of mental health problems that you already have, such as depression.

Before taking bupropion, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had depression or other mental illnesses. You should also tell your doctor about any symptoms you had during other times you tried to quit smoking, with or without bupropion.

What other Important Information Should I Know About Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-release Tablets (XL)?

Seisures: There is a chance of having a seizure (convulsion, fit) with bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL), especially in people:

The chance of having seizures increases with higher doses of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL). For more information, see the sections "Who should not take bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?" and "What should I tell my doctor before using bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?" Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and all the medicines you take. Do not take any other medicines while you are using bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) unless your doctor has said it is okay to take them.

Do not take bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) again if you have a seizure. If you have a seizure while taking bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL), stop taking the tablets and call your doctor right away.

What are bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) are a prescription medicine used to treat adults with a certain type of depression called major depressive disorder and for prevention of autumn-winter seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder).

Who should not take bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

Do not take bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) if you:

What should I tell my doctor before using bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

How should I take bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

What should I avoid while taking bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

What are possible side effects of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

Bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) can cause serious side effects. Read this entire Medication Guide for more information about these serious side effects.

Common side effects reported in studies of major depressive disorder include weight loss, loss of appetite, dry mouth, skin rash, sweating, ringing in the ears, shakiness, stomach pain, agitation, anxiety, dizziness, trouble sleeping, muscle pain, nausea, fast heartbeat, sore throat, and urinating more often.In studies of seasonal affective disorder, common side effects included weight loss, constipation, and gas.

If you have nausea, take your medicine with food. If you have trouble sleeping, do not take your medicine too close to bedtime. Tell your doctor right away about any side effects that bother you.

These are not all the side effects of bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL). For a complete list, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

General Information about bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)

This Medication Guide summarizes important information about bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL). For more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL) that is written for health professionals.

What are the ingredients in bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets (XL)?

Active ingredient: bupropion hydrochloride. Inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, ethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, methacrylic acid copolymer, microcrystalline cellulose, stearic acid, talc, titanium dioxide, hydrochloric acid and triethyl citrate. The tablets are printed with edible black ink.

The following are registered trademarks of their respective manufacturers: NARDIL /Warner Lambert Company; PARNATE /GlaxoSmithKline; MARPLAN /Oxford Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.; ZYBAN /GlaxoSmithKline; WELLBUTRIN /GlaxoSmithKline; WELLBUTRIN SR /GlaxoSmithKline. *®®®®®®

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Manufactured by: Corona, CA 92880 USA
Watson Laboratories, Inc.

Distributed by: Corona, CA 92880 USA
Watson Pharma, Inc.

Revised: August 2010 174662-3

Bupropion HCL XL 150mg Tablet

Label Image

BUPROPION HYDROCHLORIDE   XL
bupropion hydrochloride tablet, film coated, extended release
Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC:63629-3762(NDC:0591-3331)
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    
Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
BUPROPION HYDROCHLORIDE (BUPROPION) BUPROPION HYDROCHLORIDE150 mg
Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
COLLOIDAL SILICON DIOXIDE 
ETHYLCELLULOSES 
HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE 
METHACRYLIC ACID - ETHYL ACRYLATE COPOLYMER (1:1) TYPE A 
CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE 
STEARIC ACID 
TALC 
TITANIUM DIOXIDE 
HYDROCHLORIC ACID 
TRIETHYL CITRATE 
Product Characteristics
ColorWHITE (white to off-white) Score no score
ShapeROUNDSize8mm
FlavorImprint Code WPI;3331
Contains    
Packaging
#Item CodePackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
1NDC:63629-3762-190 TABLET, FILM COATED, EXTENDED RELEASE ( TABLET) in 1 BOTTLENone
2NDC:63629-3762-230 TABLET, FILM COATED, EXTENDED RELEASE ( TABLET) in 1 BOTTLENone
3NDC:63629-3762-328 TABLET, FILM COATED, EXTENDED RELEASE ( TABLET) in 1 BOTTLENone
4NDC:63629-3762-460 TABLET, FILM COATED, EXTENDED RELEASE ( TABLET) in 1 BOTTLENone

Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA07771511/26/2008

Labeler - Bryant Ranch Prepack (171714327)
Registrant - Bryant Ranch Prepack (171714327)
Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Bryant Ranch Prepack171714327REPACK, RELABEL

Revised: 08/2010 Bryant Ranch Prepack