bupropion + venlafaxine

Bupropion + venlafaxine is a combination of two antidepressant medications, each with distinct mechanisms of action. Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) and also acts as a non-competitive antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Venlafaxine is classified as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). The combination has been used off-label in cases of treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, where monotherapy with either agent or other antidepressants was insufficient. Clinical reports suggest that the combination can act synergistically to reduce depressive symptoms and improve social functioning in patients who have not responded to other treatments[1][3]. Co-administration increases extracellular dopamine more than either drug alone, which may contribute to its efficacy[8]. However, this combination carries an increased risk for adverse effects such as seizures and serotonin syndrome; careful monitoring is required[2][5][7].