Bupropion-Induced Dystonia: A Case Report

Abstract

Bupropion is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressant medications by physicians all over the world. Because of its favorable sexual profile, it is used as an alternative to serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Its significance in smoking cessation is also well recognized. However, it is associated with a few side effects, such as dizziness, anxiety, tremors, nausea, and insomnia. We present the case of a 54-year-old chronic smoker who developed acute facial dystonia involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) after being prescribed 300 mg of bupropion. The Naranjo scale was used to assess the probability of bupropion-induced dystonia. Following the diagnosis, the drug was stopped, and the dystonia completely resolved within one week. At her follow-ups, the patient was found to have no recurrence of dystonia.