OBJECTIVE: To review in a systematic way the use of bupropion in the treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). SOURCE OF DATA: literature review from 1990 to 2003 using Medline e Lilacs. RESULTS: Four studies with children and adolescents were obtained, one of them evaluating a sample in which there was comorbidity with depression. Five studies with adults were obtained; one with a sample in which there was comorbidity with substance abuse, another with depression and another one with Bipolar Disorder. CONCLUSION: Methodological limitations of all presently available studies in literature do not allow conclusions on the bupropion degree of efficacy when compared to first-line medication (stimulants), besides the significant difference to placebo. Yet, there is some evidence of a lower effect size. Studies indicate a quite satisfactory profile of adverse events.