Antidepressant (NDRI)Conditionally Approved

Bupropion

Brand names: Wellbutrin, Zyban|Last verified: 2026-09-12

FAA Pathway: Special Issuance (FAA Antidepressant Protocol) — SR/ER formulations only; IR and first-course Zyban not acceptable

Bupropion's FAA status depends on the formulation and why you take it. Sustained-release (SR) and extended-release (ER/XL) Wellbutrin were added to the FAA's conditionally acceptable antidepressants on May 31, 2023, and are considered case by case through Special Issuance with a HIMS AME evaluation. Immediate-release (IR) bupropion is unacceptable. For smoking cessation (Zyban), the FAA does not issue a medical during a first treatment course and requires a 7-day no-fly after the last dose. Bupropion combined with naltrexone (Contrave) for weight loss is on the Do Not Issue list.

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Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.

Certification Details

FAA Status

Conditionally acceptable with Special Issuance (FAA Antidepressant Medications table)

Stability Period

At least 3 continuous months on a stable dose, clinically stable, with no aeromedically significant side effects

Monotherapy

Single agent only — not combined with other antidepressants or psychiatric medications

Evaluation

HIMS AME evaluation and neuropsychological testing per FAA specifications

Disqualifying History

Psychosis, suicidal ideation, electroconvulsive therapy, or treatment with multiple antidepressants at once

Wellbutrin SR / XL (ER)

Conditionally acceptable — Special Issuance under the Antidepressant Protocol

Wellbutrin IR

Unacceptable

Zyban (smoking cessation)

First course: do not issue during treatment; 7-day no-fly after the last dose. For recurrent treatment or extended therapy over 6 months, the FAA refers AMEs to its Anxiety, Depression, and Related Conditions table

Contrave (with naltrexone)

Do Not Issue — weight loss medication

Certificate Classes

1st, 2nd, and 3rd class via Special Issuance

Sources

FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Antidepressants (faa.gov/ame_guide/pharm/antidepressants)
FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Antidepressant Medications (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Antidepressant_Medications.pdf)
FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Smoking Cessation (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Smoking_Cessation_Medications.pdf)
FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Weight Loss (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Weight_loss_pharm.pdf)
FAA Do-Not-Issue/Do-Not-Fly Table (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/DNI_DNF_tables.pdf)
FAA Anxiety, Depression, and Related Conditions Disposition Table (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/Anxiety_Depression_Disposition_Table.pdf)

Last verified: 2026-09-12

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bupropion allowed for pilots?

The FAA considers Bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Bupropion's FAA status depends on the formulation and why you take it. Sustained-release (SR) and extended-release (ER/XL) Wellbutrin were added to the FAA's conditionally acceptable antidepressants on May 31, 2023, and are considered case by case through Special Issuance with a HIMS AME evaluation. Immediate-release (IR) bupropion is unacceptable. For smoking cessation (Zyban), the FAA does not issue a medical during a first treatment course and requires a 7-day no-fly after the last dose. Bupropion combined with naltrexone (Contrave) for weight loss is on the Do Not Issue list.

What is the FAA status of Bupropion?

Bupropion has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Special Issuance (FAA Antidepressant Protocol) — SR/ER formulations only; IR and first-course Zyban not acceptable.

Can I fly while taking Bupropion?

Flying while taking Bupropion may be possible through the FAA's Special Issuance process. You will need to meet specific requirements and obtain approval before exercising pilot privileges. Consult an experienced AME for guidance.

Important Notice

The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.

The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.