Aplenzin: Uses, Dosages, Side Effects, & More

What Is Aplenzin?

Aplenzin, with the active ingredient bupropion hydrobromide, belongs to the class of medications called antidepressants.¹

Aplenzin is FDA-approved medication to address the following conditions:

• Major depressive disorder in adults
• Preventing seasonal affective disorder during the autumn-winter months

FDA approval means a medication has been found to be safe and effective for a specific use based on data from clinical trials.

Aplenzin may also be used for off-label purposes. Off-label use refers to prescribing a medication for conditions or uses not specifically approved by the FDA.

Aplenzin off-label uses may include:

• Antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction
• Managing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Treating depression associated with bipolar disorder
• Aiding in weight loss

Is There a Generic for Aplenzin?

Aplenzin is not currently available in generic form. It is available only as a brand-name medication.

How Does Aplenzin Work?

Aplenzin works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that play roles in regulating mood, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. By altering the levels of these neurotransmitters, Aplenzin may help treat symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Essentially, it helps the brain maintain a better balance of these chemicals, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of sadness or low energy associated with depression and SAD.

How Effective Is Aplenzin?

Aplenzin is generally considered to be as effective as other antidepressant medications in improving symptoms of depression. Studies comparing Aplenzin with other antidepressants like fluoxetine have shown similar levels of effectiveness in treating depressive symptoms.³

However, it’s important to note that many of these studies did not include a placebo group for comparison, and some studies are older. Overall, Aplenzin is still an option for individuals experiencing depression, but its effectiveness may vary due to individual factors.

How Long Does Aplenzin Last?

Aplenzin typically offers 24-hour coverage with just one tablet, providing a steady release of the medication throughout the day. This extended-release formulation helps maintain stable levels of the active ingredient, bupropion hydrobromide, in the body. This slow release may make it effective for managing symptoms of depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) throughout the day.

How Long Does it Take for Aplenzin to Work?

It may take around 4 weeks or longer before you start to notice the full benefits of Aplenzin. It’s essential to take the medication consistently and as prescribed during this time. If you don’t see improvement in your condition or if it worsens, communicate this to your doctor so they can adjust your treatment plan.

How Long Do I Need to Keep Taking Aplenzin?

You should continue taking Aplenzin as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better. Stopping medication abruptly can lead to a return of depression symptoms or antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, also known as antidepressant withdrawal. Your doctor will advise you on the how long to take Aplenzin based on your individual response and the nature of your condition.

Side Effects of Aplenzin

Aplenzin may cause temporary effects like trouble sleeping and dizziness, which usually improve after the first several weeks. While several side effects may be common, not everyone will experience them. Contact your prescriber if you experience severe or worsening side effects. .

Common Side Effects of Aplenzin

Common side effects of Aplenzin are often manageable and may improve over time. For some who take Aplenzin, side effects may persist for as long as they take the medication. .

Common side effects of Aplenzin include:¹

• Trouble sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Stuffy nose
• Feeling anxious

*All medications, including Aplenzin, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Side Effects of Aplenzin

Serious side effects of Aplenzin may require medical attention. Some effects may impact specific body systems, such as cardiovascular or neurological, and could pose significant health risks if left unaddressed. Report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider.

Serious side effects of Aplenzin include:¹

• Allergic reaction
• Seizures
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Suicidal thoughts or actions
• Increased blood pressure or heart rate
• Severe skin reactions
• Eye problems such as glaucoma
• Liver problems
• Mania or hypomania

*All medications, including Aplenzin, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Aplenzin Warnings & Precautions

Taking Aplenzin comes with warnings and precautions requiring medical attention. These include neuropsychiatric adverse events during smoking cessation, seizure risk, hypertension, activation of mania/hypomania, and psychosis. Monitoring for these effects is essential, and patients should promptly report any concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Warnings and precautions for taking Aplenzin include:¹

• Neuropsychiatric adverse events during smoking cessation: Changes in mood, psychosis, hallucinations, and suicidal ideation may occur. Patients attempting to quit smoking with Aplenzin should be closely monitored and instructed to discontinue and contact a healthcare provider if these adverse events occur.
• Seizure risk: The risk increases with higher doses. Patients should be monitored for signs of seizures, and Aplenzin should be discontinued if a seizure occurs.
• Hypertension: Aplenzin can raise blood pressure. Regular monitoring is advised, and appropriate measures should be taken to manage elevated blood pressure.
• Activation of mania/hypomania: Patients with bipolar disorder may experience mood elevation. Close monitoring for symptoms of mania or hypomania is recommended.
• Psychosis and other neuropsychiatric reactions: Contact a healthcare professional if symptoms such as hallucinations, paranoia, or changes in behavior occur.
• Angle-closure glaucoma: This has been observed in patients treated with antidepressants. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma, such as eye pain, blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights, and should seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Drug Interactions With Aplenzin

Aplenzin that interacts with certain foods and medications can potentially cause harmful effects. It may interact with drugs that affect liver enzymes, like ritonavir or carbamazepine, requiring dose adjustments. Aplenzin can also raise the levels of certain medications, such as antidepressants or antipsychotics, in the body. It’s important to use caution when combining Aplenzin with other drugs.

6 types of substances you should avoid while taking Aplenzin include:¹

• CYP2B6 inducers: Medications like ritonavir or carbamazepine may reduce the effectiveness of Aplenzin or require dose adjustments. The combination may also lead to decreased efficacy of Aplenzin in treating depression.
• Medications broken down by CYP2D6: Aplenzin can increase levels of certain medications like antidepressants or antipsychotics in the body. This combination may lead to adverse effects such as increased side effects or toxicity.
• Medications that lower seizure threshold: Caution is advised when taking Aplenzin with medications that may lower the seizure threshold. This may increase the risk of seizures and lead to convulsions or loss of consciousness.
• Dopaminergic drugs (levodopa and amantadine): Using medications that affect dopamine with Aplenzin may lead to central nervous system toxicity. This may result in symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, or abnormal movements.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs):  MAOIs are a type of antidepressant medication. Combining Aplenzin with MAOIs can result in dangerously high blood pressure levels, leading to symptoms such as severe headache, blurred vision, chest pain, or confusion.
• Drug-laboratory test interactions: Aplenzin may cause false-positive urine test results for amphetamines, potentially leading to incorrect diagnoses or treatment decisions.

This is not a comprehensive list of the possible interactions with Aplenzin. You should talk with your healthcare provider and your pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take before starting Aplenzin.

Aplenzin Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment

Dosages of Aplenzin can vary based on individual factors such as age and the specific condition being treated. The typical dosage range for Aplenzin extended-release tablets is 174 mg, 348 mg, or 522 mg once daily.¹

Factors such as age, comorbidities, and any other medications being taken can influence the appropriate dosage. Aplenzin is approved for use in adults aged 18 years and older for the treatment of major depressive disorder and prevention of seasonal affective disorder.

Aplenzin Form & Strengths

Aplenzin comes in extended-release tablets of 174 mg to  522 mg strengths. Prescribers determine the most appropriate form and strength based on the individual’s condition, medical history, and other medications. Factors such as duration of action, dosing convenience, and potential side effects influence the choice. Extended-release formulations provide gradual medication delivery over time, leading to a steady drug level. Aplenzin typically takes a few weeks to show effects, varying by individual.

Aplenzin is available in the following forms and strengths:¹

• 174 mg extended-release tablet
• 348 mg extended-release tablet
• 522 mg extended-release tablet

Aplenzin Dosages for Adults With Major Depression

Aplenzin is an FDA-approved treatment for major depressive disorder, helping improve depression symptoms. The starting dose is typically 174 mg once daily, equivalent to 150 mg of bupropion HCl, with the usual target dose being 348 mg once daily, equivalent to 300 mg of bupropion HCl. It may take around 4 days for the dosage to increase to 348 mg once daily, and dose adjustments should be made gradually to minimize the risk of seizures.

Here is Aplenzin dosage information for depression in adults:¹

• Typical starting dosage: The typical starting dosage for Aplenzin in adults with depression is 174 mg once daily, which is equivalent to 150 mg of bupropion hydrochloride. This initial dose may be increased to 348 mg once daily after 4 days.
• Dosage increases: After starting with the initial dose of 174 mg once daily, the dosage may be increased to 348 mg once daily to achieve the target therapeutic effect. This increase is typically done after 4 days of starting treatment.
• Maximum dosage: The maximum recommended dosage for Aplenzin in adults with depression is 348 mg once daily, equivalent to 300 mg of bupropion hydrochloride. However, individual dosages may vary based on factors such as tolerability and response to treatment.

Aplenzin Dosages for Adults With Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Aplenzin is FDA-approved to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), providing relief from symptoms of seasonal depression. Typically, it takes about a week for Aplenzin to begin improving symptoms. Treatment should start in autumn before symptoms appear, with a starting dose of 174 mg once daily, increasing to 348 mg once daily after one week. Treatment should continue throughout the winter season for sustained relief.

Here is Aplezin dosage information for seasonal affective disorder in adults:¹

• Typical starting dosage: The typical starting dosage for adults with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is 174 mg once daily, equivalent to 150 mg of bupropion HCl. After one week, the dosage may be increased to 348 mg once daily to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
• Dosage increases: Following the initial dose of 174 mg once daily, the dosage may be increased to 348 mg once daily after one week of treatment. This increase helps optimize symptom relief for individuals with SAD.
• Maximum dosage: The maximum recommended dosage for Aplenzin in adults with seasonal affective disorder is 348 mg once daily, equivalent to 300 mg of bupropion HCl. However, individual dosages may vary depending on factors such as tolerability and response to treatment.

How to Take Aplenzin

To take Aplenzin effectively, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely. Swallow the tablets whole, without chewing, cutting, or crushing them, to prevent the medicine from being released too quickly and causing potential side effects like seizures. Take your doses at least 24 hours apart, with or without food.

If you miss a dose, do not take extra to catch up. Instead, wait to take your next regular dose. It may take a few weeks to feel the full effects of Aplenzin for major depressive disorder, so keep taking it as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you have concerns about its effectiveness.

How to Get Aplenzin

Aplenzin is available exclusively by prescription, meaning you’ll need to consult with a healthcare provider to obtain it. Psychiatrists are among the healthcare professionals who can prescribe Aplenzin for conditions like depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). They will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and overall health to determine if Aplenzin is a suitable treatment option for you.

Additionally, prescriptions for Aplenzin can be obtained through both in-person office visits and online psychiatry services.

Can You Overdose on Aplenzin?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Aplenzin, and overdoses of bupropion, the active ingredient in Aplenzin, have been reported. Symptoms of an overdose can include seizures, hallucinations, loss of consciousness, changes in mental status, rapid heartbeat, muscle twitches, and hyperreflexia.¹

What Should You Do If You Take Too Much Aplenzin?

If you take too much Aplenzin, seek immediate medical attention. Contact a certified Poison Control Center for guidance. In case of overdose, it’s crucial to receive prompt medical care and monitoring. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own. Quick intervention can prevent complications and reduce risk.

How Much Does Aplenzin Cost?

The average cash price for Aplenzin without insurance is approximately $6506.72.⁴ This cost may vary depending on factors such as dosage strength, pharmacy location, and insurance coverage. Check with your local pharmacy or online platforms like drugs.com or GoodRx.com for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

How to Know if Aplenzin Is Right for You

To determine if Aplenzin is right for you, consult with a healthcare provider, such as a primary care provider, advance practice nurse, psychiatrist, or physician assistant. They will assess your symptoms, medical history, and any other medications you may be taking to determine if Aplenzin is a suitable treatment option.

Considerations include the severity of your condition, potential side effects, and how well you tolerate the medication. It’s essential to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision about your treatment plan.