What side effects does Auvelity (dextromethorphan/bupropion) commonly cause?
Auvelity can cause side effects that are typical of both its ingredients. Commonly reported effects include nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and constipation/diarrhea. [1]
Because Auvelity contains bupropion, it can also affect appetite and cause tremor or headaches in some people. [1]
What are the serious side effects people should watch for?
Serious reactions can happen and should be treated as urgent. Look for symptoms such as:
- Seizure (Auvelity increases seizure risk in certain situations) [2]
- Allergic reaction (swelling, rash, trouble breathing) [1]
- Severe changes in mood or behavior (including agitation) [2]
- Signs of serotonin-related problems are less typical for this specific combination, but any sudden mental status changes plus fever or muscle stiffness should be evaluated right away [2]
If you notice symptoms of a seizure or severe allergic reaction, seek emergency care. [2]
How does Auvelity affect blood pressure, heart rate, or sleep?
Bupropion can raise blood pressure in some patients, so clinicians may monitor blood pressure during treatment. [2]
Sleep disruption can occur, since bupropion may be activating for some people. If insomnia happens, taking the doses at the correct times is important and your prescriber may adjust your schedule. [1]
What increases the risk of seizures with Auvelity?
Auvelity’s seizure risk goes up if you have certain pre-existing risk factors or if you combine it with other seizure-threshold–lowering substances. Risk is higher with:
- A current or prior seizure disorder [2]
- Conditions that increase the likelihood of electrolyte imbalance (for example, significant eating disorders or abrupt stopping of alcohol/sedatives) [2]
- Using other medications that lower the seizure threshold [2]
- Higher-than-prescribed dosing or taking it more often than directed [2]
If you have any seizure history or take medications that affect seizure risk, tell your prescriber before starting. [2]
Can Auvelity cause withdrawal or problems if you stop suddenly?
Stopping antidepressant therapy can sometimes lead to discontinuation symptoms (such as dizziness, irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbance), especially if you stop abruptly. Your prescriber can advise whether a taper is needed for your situation. [2]
What interactions are most important to check before taking Auvelity?
Auvelity can interact with other drugs that affect seizure risk, including some antidepressants and stimulants, and with medications that influence metabolism. It also has interaction concerns around combining with other products that contain bupropion or with certain CYP-related medicines. [2]
Because interaction risk depends on your full medication list, it’s important to confirm every prescription, over-the-counter product, and supplement with your pharmacist or prescriber. [2]
How long after starting Auvelity do side effects show up, and when do they improve?
Side effects often appear in the first days to weeks after starting or after dose changes, and many people see improvement over time as the body adjusts. If side effects are severe or worsening, contact the prescriber promptly rather than waiting it out. [1]
When should you call your doctor right away?
Contact your prescriber urgently or seek emergency care for:
- Seizure activity [2]
- Signs of serious allergic reaction (swelling, trouble breathing) [1]
- Severe or rapidly worsening mood/behavior changes [2]
- Any symptom that feels life-threatening [2]
Sources
- https://www.auvelity.com/side-effects
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/