NDRIs and psilocybin - Can magic mushrooms or truffles be taken together with bupropion (Zyban, Voxra, Budeprion, Aplenzin, Forfivo XL, Welbutrin)

The combination of psilocybin (as in a psilocybin session) and bupropion (also known under brand names as Wellbutrin, Voxra, Zyban, Aplenzin and Budepronis generally not dangerous, but it can affect the intensity and emotional depth of the experience.

Pharmacological interaction

Bupropion is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) and affects the serotonin system to a lesser extent. Psilocybin acts primarily on 5-HT2A serotonin receptors. Because bupropion does not strongly affect serotonergic transmission, the risk of serotonin syndrome with this combination is very low. Nevertheless, bupropion can slightly flatten the depth of the psychedelic experience. Users sometimes report reduced visual intensity or a more cognitive, less emotional trip.

Effect on the experience

When someone uses bupropion during a psilocybin or truffle ceremony, A less profound introspective effect is often described. This is because bupropion increases dopaminergic and noradrenergic activity, which keeps consciousness slightly more “alert” and can therefore make letting go during a psychedelic session more difficult.

Scale down or continue?

According to user experiences on the Triptherapie forum, tapering off bupropion is usually not strictly necessary for a safe psilocybin experience. Nevertheless, some participants choose to stop temporarily (in consultation with their doctor) to maximize therapeutic depth.
The half-life of bupropion is 21 to 37 hours, depending on the formulation. On average, it takes 5 to 8 days for it to completely disappear from the body. This can be taken into account when planning a session.

Conclusion

1. The combination is safe, but can slightly reduce the intensity of psilocybin.

2. Serotonin syndrome is highly unlikely due to the low serotonergic effect of bupropion.

3. For those who wish to experience the full therapeutic depth, temporarily tapering off in consultation with a doctor may be beneficial.

4. Never stop taking bupropion on your own initiative, especially not for depression or ADHD, without medical supervision.

Sources for this explanation come from, among others, the forum discussions. “Do Voxra and psilocybin go together?” and “Welbutrin (bupropion) and psilocybin, truffles or magic mushrooms”.