Bupropion augmentation in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome with coexistent major depression episode

Pharmacopsychiatry. 2006 Jul;39(4):152-4. doi: 10.1055/s-2006-946706.

Abstract

While psychoeducational strategies and general support are always indicated for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), pharmacological strategies are yet not well established. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors have been shown to influence positively symptoms and immunological parameters. However, a considerable part of CFS patients do not satisfactorily respond to them. Bupropion, a centrally acting catecholamine-transporter blocker without classic psycho-analeptic properties, shows theoretical potential to improve fatigue symptoms. In the reported case paroxetine was augmented with bupropion at high dosage, a strategy which consecutively led to a rapid relief of CFS-symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation / therapeutic use*
  • Bupropion / therapeutic use*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / complications*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / drug therapy*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / psychology
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / complications*
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / drug therapy*
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Paroxetine / therapeutic use
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
  • Bupropion
  • Paroxetine