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Can I take Bupropion and Sertraline together?

Drug interaction guide

Taking these two medicines together can increase the risk of having a seizure (a fit). It can also lead to a condition called 'serotonin syndrome', where you have too much of a chemical called serotonin in your body. This can cause symptoms like shivering, diarrhoea, confusion, severe muscle tightness, and fever. Additionally, bupropion can cause the levels of sertraline in your blood to rise, which may increase the chance of experiencing other side effects like nausea, dizziness, or trouble sleeping.

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Why this happens

Bupropion blocks a specific liver enzyme (CYP2D6) that your body uses to break down sertraline. This causes sertraline to build up in your system. Furthermore, both drugs independently lower the 'seizure threshold' (making it easier for a seizure to occur) and both affect brain chemicals that, when combined, can lead to serotonin toxicity.

You must speak to your doctor before taking these two medicines together. If your doctor decides the combination is necessary, they may start you on a lower dose and monitor you closely. Seek immediate medical help if you experience a seizure, extreme agitation, high fever, or uncontrollable muscle twitching.

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Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.

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Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
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