Bupropion Use Disorder by Chewing

Abstract

Introduction: Bupropion is a widely used antidepressant that plays an essential role in treating mental disorders. Due to its structural similarities with psychostimulants, bupropion is suggested to have addictive potential. Several case reports have been published addressing its misuse in recent years, mainly through nasal insufflation and intravenous administration. Most of the reported cases cited a history of substance use disorder.

Methods: Written informed consent was obtained from the patient to write this case report.

Case presentation: We present a case with alcohol use disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, who developed a substance use disorder to bupropion while chewing it in doses up to 2250 mg, in an attempt to get "high" with no history of seizures.

Discussion: Our case suggests that bupropion can also be misused by chewing even at high doses and that it can lead to a substance use disorder. Its use in various indications in treating mental disorders and its over-the-counter accessibility, along with a lower risk of stigmatization, could increase the prevalence of bupropion misuse. It is essential to know the medical consequences of bupropion misuse as there is increasing data on its addictive potential. More information is needed to clarify the impact of the route of administration on drug metabolism and adverse effects.