Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which of the following is a contraindication for bupropion?

1. Peripheral neuropathy

2. Seizure disorders

3. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia

4. Recent monoamine oxidase inhibitor discontinuation

The correct answer is: Seizure disorders

Bupropion is an antidepressant that is used to treat major depressive disorder and to support smoking cessation. It has a risk of lowering the seizure threshold, making it particularly contraindicated in individuals with seizure disorders. In patients who have a history of seizures, using bupropion could significantly increase the likelihood of experiencing seizures, which presents a serious health risk. In addition to seizure disorders, bupropion is also contraindicated in patients with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia. These conditions can also be associated with electrolyte imbalances, which further heightens the risk of seizures when bupropion is used. To provide context, while peripheral neuropathy may affect the patient's overall well-being and possibly their experience with medication, it does not directly contraindicate the use of bupropion. Similarly, recent monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) discontinuation requires a waiting period before bupropion can be initiated, but it is not an absolute contraindication; it's more about the timing and safety of combining medications rather than a direct effect on seizure risk.