Bupropion-induced erythema multiforme

The high rate of dermatologic adverse effects associated with bupropion use may extend to its sustained-release preparation, currently prescribed exte nsively for smoking cessation as well as for treatment of depressive condit ions. We report what we believe to be the first case, in a 31-year-old woma n, of erythema multiforme after administration of sustained-release bupropi on (Wellbutrin SR) for treatment of depression. This report emphasizes that prescribers must aggressively follow up their patients who have rashes or urticaria, discontinuing the medication as soon as erythema multiforme is s uspected and watching closely for the emergence of potentially life-threate ning dermatologic conditions.