Hydroxybupropion
bupropion metabolite
What it isMajor active metabolite of bupropion, formed by CYP2B6, present at far higher concentrations than the parent.
Why it mattersAccounts for most of bupropion’s noradrenergic effect and much of its seizure risk, rather than bupropion itself.
What it changesCYP2B6 variation changes levels severalfold, explaining wide variation in bupropion response and tolerability.
Used for
- depression/smoking cessation (metabolite of bupropion)
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskLittle in its own right; see the parent drug
Classes and tags
Open Hydroxybupropion in the interactive console ↗
Self-check
- Which enzyme forms hydroxybupropion?
CYP2B6. - Are hydroxybupropion concentrations lower or higher than bupropion’s?
Far higher.