Serum bupropion levels in 2 breastfeeding mother-infant pairs

Background. These are the first reported data on bupropion and hydroxybupropion levels in infants whose treated mothers were breastfeeding. The information will assist physicians and parents in the risk-benefit decision-making process for bupropion treatment during breastfeeding. Method: Serum samples were obtained by venipuncture from 2 mother-infant pairs. The serum was assayed for levels of bupropion and its most active metabolite, hydroxybupropion. Results: Neither infant had quantifiable serum levels of bupropion or its metabolite at steady state. Neither infant had medical problems during the time of maternal therapy. Conclusion: We recommend obtaining and publishing additional serum level findings for breastfeeding mother-infant pairs since data for bupropion are favorable but limited.