Bupropion abuse resulting in hypomania in a geriatric amphetamine user: A case report.

BACKGROUND

Bupropion is a commonly prescribed antidepressant which acts on norepinephrine and dopamine neurotransmission. It is structurally similar to amphetamine. Several cases of recreational bupropion ingestion, insufflation, and injection have been reported in the literature.

METHODS

Here we report a case of bupropion abuse in a 79-year-old gentleman with a history of alcohol and amphetamine use disorders, resulting in hypertension and hypomanic symptoms.

RESULTS

To our knowledge, this is the first case of bupropion abuse documented in an older adult. The literature with respect to bupropion abuse is reviewed, and the matter of stimulant abuse in older adults is considered.

CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE: This case emphasizes the need to consider bupropion's abuse potential when prescribing it to older adults with risk factors for substance abuse.