Wellbutrin (bupropion hydrochloride)

What is Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin is a brand-name prescription drug. It’s available in two forms, which have different FDA-approved uses:

• Wellbutrin SR. Wellbutrin SR is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. MDD is also called depression.
• Wellbutrin XL. Wellbutrin XL is used to treat MDD in adults. It’s also used to help prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in adults.

This article uses the term “Wellbutrin” to describe both forms of the drug.

Drug details

Wellbutrin contains the active drug bupropion. It’s a type of antidepressant called a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor.

Wellbutrin is available in two forms. Each form comes as an oral tablet with different strengths. For details, see “Wellbutrin SR vs. Wellbutrin XL” just below.

Wellbutrin SR vs. Wellbutrin XL

Wellbutrin comes in two forms: Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL. “SR” stands for sustained release, while “XL” stands for extended release. Both forms of Wellbutrin are long-acting and release their active drug slowly into your body over time.

In the past, Wellbutrin was available in an immediate-release (IR) form. (IR means the full dose of the drug is released into your body all at once.) However, the IR form of Wellbutrin is no longer available.

Wellbutrin SR comes in three strengths: 100 milligrams (mg), 150 mg, and 200 mg. You’ll likely take Wellbutrin SR twice per day.*

Wellbutrin XL comes in two strengths: 150 mg and 300 mg. You’ll likely take Wellbutrin XL once per day.*

If you have questions about the differences between Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

* For details about the dosages of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin dosage” section below.

Effectiveness

For information about the effectiveness of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin uses” section below.

Wellbutrin generic

Wellbutrin is a brand-name drug that contains the active ingredient bupropion. This active drug is also available as a generic medication called bupropion ER. A generic drug is an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication.

The generic is considered to be as safe and effective as the original drug. Generics tend to cost less than brand-name drugs.

If you’re interested in taking the generic version of Wellbutrin, talk with your doctor. They can tell you if it comes in forms and strengths suitable for your condition.

Wellbutrin side effects

Wellbutrin can cause mild or serious side effects. The following lists contain some of the key side effects that may occur while taking Wellbutrin. These lists do not include all possible side effects.

For more information about the possible side effects of Wellbutrin, talk with a doctor or pharmacist. They can give you tips on how to manage any side effects that may concern or bother you.

Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tracks side effects of drugs it has approved. If you would like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with Wellbutrin, you can do so through MedWatch.

Mild side effects

Below is a partial list of mild side effects of Wellbutrin. To learn about other mild side effects, talk with a doctor or pharmacist, or view the prescribing information for Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL.

Mild side effects of Wellbutrin can include:

• headache
• sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleepiness (making you tired)
• increased or decreased libido (sex drive)
• sweating, which may include night sweats
• digestive problems, such as loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation
• hot flashes
• dry mouth or sore throat
• dizziness
• ringing in the ears
• tremor
• heart palpitations (feeling that your heartbeat is fluttering, racing, or skipping)
• muscle pain
• skin rash
• changes in body weight, including weight loss* and weight gain
• mild allergic reaction†

Most of these side effects may go away within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if they become more severe or don’t go away, talk with a doctor or pharmacist.

* For details about weight loss and Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin and weight loss” section below.
† For more information about allergic reaction and Wellbutrin, see “Allergic reaction” below.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects from Wellbutrin aren’t common, but they can occur. Call a doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.

Serious side effects and their symptoms can include:

• Vision problems. Symptoms can include:
  • eye pain
  • vision changes
  • redness or swelling of the eye
• Seizures. Symptoms can include:
  • shaking, twitching, or jerking movements
  • changes in taste or smell
  • staring into space
  • rapid blinking
  • loss of consciousness
• High blood pressure, which may not cause symptoms unless it’s severe. Symptoms of severely high blood pressure can include:
  • headache
  • nosebleeds
  • shortness of breath
  • chest pain
• Mental health effects. Examples include:
  • anxiety*
  • psychosis (loss of touch with reality)
  • delusions (untrue beliefs or thoughts)
  • hypomania or mania (episodes of high energy and excitement)
  • panic attacks
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors.†
• Severe allergic reaction.‡

* For details about anxiety and Wellbutrin, see “Wellbutrin and anxiety” below.
† Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL have a boxed warning for this side effect. This is a serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Wellbutrin precautions” section below.
‡ For details about allergic reaction and Wellbutrin, see “Allergic reaction” below.

ALLERGIC REACTION

As with most drugs, some people can have an allergic reaction after taking Wellbutrin. This was a rare side effect in clinical trials of Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL.

Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can include:

• skin rash
• itchiness
• flushing

A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include:

• swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
• swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat
• trouble breathing
• chest pain

Call a doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to Wellbutrin, as the reaction could become severe. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.

Common questions about Wellbutrin

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Wellbutrin.

How does Wellbutrin compare with Lexapro and Zoloft?

Below are a few ways Wellbutrin compares with Lexapro and Zoloft.

To learn more about how Wellbutrin compares with Lexapro and Zoloft, talk with a doctor or pharmacist.

Is Wellbutrin an SSRI?

No, Wellbutrin is not a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Instead, it belongs to a class of drugs called norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs).

Both SSRIs and NDRIs are antidepressants. However, they work differently in the body. SSRIs work by increasing levels of a brain chemical called serotonin. NDRIs work by increasing levels of brain chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine. Both of these drug types can help improve mood, which helps treat conditions such as depression.

To learn more about Wellbutrin and SSRIs, talk with a doctor or pharmacist.

Could my doctor prescribe Wellbutrin for bipolar disorder, smoking cessation, or other uses?

Possibly. However, Wellbutrin is not approved to treat bipolar disorder or help with smoking cessation. (Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects mood and energy. Smoking cessation refers to the process of quitting smoking.)

Wellbutrin is only approved to treat major depressive disorder and help prevent seasonal affective disorder. (For more information, see the “Wellbutrin uses” section below.)

However, Wellbutrin may be used off-label for other conditions. Off-label drug use is when a drug that’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is prescribed for a purpose other than what it’s approved for. These conditions may include bipolar disorder or smoking cessation.

If you have questions about Wellbutrin and bipolar disorder, smoking cessation, or other uses, talk with your doctor. They can recommend the right treatment option for your condition.

What’s Wellbutrin’s half-life?

The half-life of Wellbutrin is about 21 hours. (A drug’s half-life is the amount of time it takes for half of a drug’s dose to leave your system.) So, it takes about 21 hours for your body to get rid of half of a dose of Wellbutrin.

It takes about five half-lives for a drug to leave your system entirely. For Wellbutrin, this means the drug will stay in your system for about 105 hours, which is around 4 days.

If you have questions about how long Wellbutrin will stay in your system, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Wellbutrin and weight loss

Wellbutrin is not approved for use as a weight loss drug.* However, weight loss is a common side effect of Wellbutrin.† To find out how often this side effect occurred in clinical trials, view the prescribing information for Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL.

Bupropion (the active drug in Wellbutrin) can be used for weight loss. If your doctor prescribes bupropion for weight loss, they may prescribe it in combination with naltrexone (Contrave).

If you have questions about Wellbutrin and weight loss, talk with your doctor.

* For details about the approved uses of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin uses” section below.
† To learn about the side effects of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin side effects” section above.

Wellbutrin dosage

The Wellbutrin dosage your doctor prescribes will depend on several factors. These include:

• whether you take Wellbutrin SR or Wellbutrin XL
• other medical conditions you may have
• other medications you may be taking

Typically, your doctor will prescribe you a low dosage when starting Wellbutrin treatment. Then they’ll adjust it over time to reach the amount that’s right for you. Your doctor will ultimately prescribe the lowest dose of Wellbutrin that provides the desired effect.

The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Drug forms and strengths

Wellbutrin comes as an oral tablet. It’s available in the following forms and strengths:

• Wellbutrin SR: 100 milligrams (mg), 150 mg, and 200 mg
• Wellbutrin XL: 150 mg and 300 mg

“SR” stands for sustained release, while “XL” stands for extended-release. Both forms of Wellbutrin are long-acting and release their active drug slowly into your body over time.

Note: In the past, Wellbutrin was available in an immediate-release (IR) form. (IR means the full dose of the drug is released into your body all at once.) The IR form of Wellbutrin is no longer available. However, the active drug in Wellbutrin IR is available in a generic version called bupropion. It comes in strengths of 75 mg and 100 mg.

Dosage for depression

Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL treat major depressive disorder (MDD). This condition is also called depression.

When used to treat depression, the typical starting dosage of Wellbutrin SR is 150 mg once per day. After 3 days, your doctor may increase your dosage to 150 mg twice per day. The maximum recommended dosage of Wellbutrin SR is 200 mg twice per day.

The typical starting dosage of Wellbutrin XL for depression is 150 mg once per day. After 4 days, your doctor may increase your dosage to 300 mg once per day. The maximum recommended dosage of Wellbutrin XL is 450 mg once per day.

Your doctor may prescribe a different dosage of Wellbutrin SR or Wellbutrin XL, depending on several factors. These include whether you have kidney or liver disease. If you have questions about the dosage that’s right for you, talk with your doctor.

Dosage for seasonal affective disorder

Wellbutrin XL is used to help prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Wellbutrin SR is not approved for this use. (For details about the approved uses of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin uses” section below.)

When used to treat SAD, the typical starting dosage of Wellbutrin XL is 150 mg once per day. After 7 days, your doctor may increase your dosage to 300 mg once per day. The maximum recommended dosage of Wellbutrin XL is 450 mg once per day.

Your doctor may prescribe you a different dosage of Wellbutrin XL, depending on several factors. These include whether you have kidney or liver disease. If you have questions about the dosage that’s right for you, talk with your doctor.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Wellbutrin SR or Wellbutrin XL, wait until your next scheduled dose is due. Do not take any extra doses to make up for a missed dose. Doing so can increase your risk of side effects, particularly seizures. (For information about side effects, see the “Wellbutrin side effects” section above.)

To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.

Will I need to take this drug long term?

For depression, Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL are meant to be used as long-term treatments. If you and your doctor determine that Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL are safe and effective for you, you’ll likely take them long term.

For SAD, you may take Wellbutrin XL for short periods during the year. For example, you may take the drug from autumn to spring and stop treatment during the summer. Then, you may begin taking the drug again during autumn. This is because the symptoms of SAD typically occur during the winter months and get better in springtime. Your doctor can tell you how long you may expect to take Wellbutrin XL for SAD.

Wellbutrin for ADHD

Wellbutrin is not approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, Wellbutrin may be used off-label for this condition. Off-label drug use is when a drug that’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is prescribed for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.

ADHD is a condition that may cause problems controlling behaviors or paying attention. Symptoms of this condition can include:

• squirming or fidgeting
• talking excessively
• being easily distracted
• having disruptive behaviors, such as angry outbursts

If you have questions about taking Wellbutrin for ADHD, talk with your doctor. They can recommend the right treatment for this condition.

Wellbutrin and anxiety

Wellbutrin is not approved to treat anxiety. However, the drug may be used off-label for this condition. Off-label drug use is when a drug that’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is prescribed for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.

Anxiety is a mental health condition that may cause excessive worry or fear about everyday situations. Its symptoms often overlap with another condition called obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If you have bothersome thoughts that interfere with everyday life, talk with your doctor. They can help determine whether you may have anxiety, OCD, or another mental health condition.

Keep in mind that Wellbutrin may cause anxiety as a side effect.* So, it’s possible that Wellbutrin could make anxiety worse for some people. For this reason, your doctor may recommend a treatment other than Wellbutrin that doesn’t increase your risk of anxiety.

For example, buspirone is another treatment option for anxiety. In the past, buspirone was available under the brand name Buspar. While the generic version of buspirone is still available, its brand-name version has been discontinued. If you have anxiety, your doctor can advise whether buspirone is the right treatment option for you.

If you have other questions about Wellbutrin and anxiety, talk with your doctor.

* For information about side effects, see the “Wellbutrin side effects” section above.

Alternatives to Wellbutrin

Other treatments are available that can be used for your condition. Some may be a better fit for you than others. If you’re interested in finding an alternative to Wellbutrin, talk with your doctor. They can tell you about other options that may work well for you.

Note: Some of the drugs listed here are used off-label to treat these specific conditions. Off-label drug use is when a drug that’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is prescribed for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.

To learn about Wellbutrin’s off-label uses and alternatives for these conditions, talk with a doctor. For example, Wellbutrin may be prescribed off-label for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). (For details, see the “Wellbutrin and ADHD” section above.) Your doctor can tell you more about alternatives for ADHD, such as amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Adderall XR).

Alternatives for depression

Examples of other drugs that may be used to treat depression include:

• other antidepressants, such as:
  • escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • sertraline (Zoloft)
  • fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • duloxetine (Cymbalta)
  • paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)
  • venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
• atypical antipsychotics, such as:
  • aripiprazole (Abilify, Abilify Mycite, others)
  • brexpiprazole (Rexulti)
  • quetiapine (Seroquel, Seroquel XR)
  • cariprazine (Vraylar)

Alternatives for seasonal affective disorder

Examples of other drugs that may be used to treat or help prevent seasonal affective disorder include:

• other antidepressants, such as:
  • escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • sertraline (Zoloft)
  • fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • duloxetine (Cymbalta)
  • paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)
  • venlafaxine (Effexor XR)

Wellbutrin interactions

Wellbutrin can interact with several other medications and lab tests. However, it’s not known to interact with supplements or foods.

Different interactions can cause different effects. For instance, some interactions can interfere with how well a drug works. Other interactions can increase side effects or make them more severe. Drug-condition interactions can also cause certain effects. For information about these interactions, see the “Wellbutrin precautions” section below.

Wellbutrin and other medications

Below is a list of medications that can interact with Wellbutrin. This list does not contain all drugs that may interact with Wellbutrin.

Before taking Wellbutrin, talk with your doctor and pharmacist. Tell them about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also, tell them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this information can help you avoid potential interactions.

Doctors typically will not prescribe Wellbutrin with the following drugs:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These medications are used to treat depression, certain infections, and certain blood disorders. Taking Wellbutrin with MAOIs could cause severely high blood pressure. Examples of these drugs include:
  • linezolid (Zyvox)
  • methylene blue (Provayblue)
  • selegiline (Emsam)
  • isocarboxazid (Marplan)
  • phenelzine (Nardil)

Other drugs that may interact with Wellbutrin include the following:

• Certain antiplatelet drugs. These drugs are used to help prevent blood clots in certain situations. Taking Wellbutrin with antiplatelet drugs could increase the risk of side effects from Wellbutrin. Examples of these drugs include:
  • ticlopidine
  • clopidogrel (Plavix)
• Certain antiviral drugs. These medications are used to treat HIV. Taking Wellbutrin with antivirals could make Wellbutrin less effective. Examples of these drugs include:
  • efavirenz (Sustiva)
  • lopinavir (Kaletra)
  • ritonavir (Norvir)
• Certain antiseizure drugs. These drugs are used to treat and help prevent seizures. Taking Wellbutrin with antiseizure drugs could make Wellbutrin less effective. Examples of these drugs include:
  • phenobarbital
  • phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek)
  • carbamazepine (Epitol, Tegretol, others)
• Certain antidepressants. These medications are used to treat depression. Taking Wellbutrin with antidepressants could increase the risk of side effects from antidepressants. Examples of these drugs include:
  • escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • sertraline (Zoloft)
  • fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • duloxetine (Cymbalta)
  • paroxetine (Paxil)
• Certain antipsychotics. These drugs are used to treat mental health conditions. Taking Wellbutrin with antipsychotics could increase the risk of side effects from antipsychotics. Examples of these drugs include:
  • thioridazine
  • risperidone (Risperdal)
  • haloperidol (Haldol)
• Certain heart rhythm drugs. These medications are used to treat irregular heart rhythms. Taking Wellbutrin with heart rhythm drugs could have different effects, depending on the exact heart rhythm drug. Wellbutrin may either increase the risk of side effects from heart rhythm drugs or make them less effective. Examples of these drugs include:
  • flecainide
  • propafenone
  • digoxin (Lanoxin)
• Certain beta-blockers. These drugs are used to treat high blood pressure. Taking Wellbutrin with beta-blockers could increase the risk of side effects from beta blockers. Examples of these drugs include:
  • metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL)
  • propranolol (Inderal LA, Innopran XL, others)
  • nebivolol (Bystolic)
• Certain corticosteroids. These medications are used to treat inflammation. Taking Wellbutrin with corticosteroids could increase the risk of seizures with Wellbutrin. Examples of these drugs include:
  • methylprednisolone (Medrol)
  • prednisone (Rayos)
  • prednisolone (Orapred ODT, Prelone)
• Certain dopamine agonists. These medications are used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Taking Wellbutrin with these drugs could increase the risk of side effects from Wellbutrin and dopamine agonists. Examples of these drugs include:
  • amantadine (Gocovri)
  • levodopa-containing drugs
• The cancer drug tamoxifen (Soltamox). Tamoxifen is used to treat certain cancers. Taking Wellbutrin with this drug could make tamoxifen less effective.
• The xanthine drug theophylline (Theo-24). Theophylline is used to treat asthma. Taking Wellbutrin with this drug could increase the risk of seizures with Wellbutrin.

If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Wellbutrin and herbs and supplements

There aren’t any herbs or supplements that have been specifically reported to interact with Wellbutrin. However, you should still check with a doctor or pharmacist before using any of these products while taking Wellbutrin.

Wellbutrin and foods

There aren’t any foods that have been specifically reported to interact with Wellbutrin. If you have any questions about eating certain foods with Wellbutrin, talk with a doctor.

Wellbutrin and lab tests

Wellbutrin may interact with certain urine drug tests for amphetamines, such as Adderall and Adderall XR.

Specifically, Wellbutrin may cause a false-positive test result for amphetamines in the urine. A false-positive result happens when a test shows a positive result for a substance that is not present. In this case, the urine drug screen shows a positive result for amphetamines even though Wellbutrin is not an amphetamine.

Before having a urine drug test for amphetamines, be sure the healthcare professional giving you the test knows if you’re taking Wellbutrin. They may give you a different type of drug test that isn’t affected by Wellbutrin.

Wellbutrin and alcohol

You may wonder if you can drink alcohol while taking Wellbutrin. The drug is known to interact with alcohol.

It’s recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin. There have been reports of mental health changes in people who drank alcohol while taking Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL. These medications could also make your body more sensitive to the effects of alcohol.

If you have questions about avoiding alcohol while taking Wellbutrin, talk with your doctor.

In addition, be sure to tell your doctor if you have suddenly stopped drinking alcohol during Wellbutrin treatment. Doing so could increase your risk of seizures as a side effect of Wellbutrin. (For information, see the “Wellbutrin precautions” section below.)

Wellbutrin withdrawal and dependence

Wellbutrin isn’t known to cause drug dependence. (With dependence, your body relies on a drug to feel as you usually do.)

Medications that cause dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms after a person stops taking the drug. (With withdrawal symptoms, you have uncomfortable effects after you stop taking a substance.) However, withdrawal symptoms weren’t reported in clinical trials of Wellbutrin SR or Wellbutrin XL.

Still, it’s important that you do not stop Wellbutrin treatment “cold turkey” (suddenly). If you’d like to stop taking the drug, talk with your doctor.

If they advise it’s safe to stop, they may lower your dosage* slowly over time. Your doctor may also prescribe a different treatment for your condition. Taking these steps could help prevent a return of symptoms of the condition you’re taking Wellbutrin to treat.

* To learn about the dosages of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin dosage” section above.

Wellbutrin uses

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as Wellbutrin to treat certain conditions. Wellbutrin may also be used off-label for other conditions. Off-label drug use is when an FDA-approved drug is prescribed for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.

Wellbutrin for depression

Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL are FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. MDD is also called depression.

Depression explained

With depression, you have persistent and intense feelings of sadness that interrupt daily life.

Symptoms of depression can vary from person to person. Examples may include:

• mood changes
• sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleepiness
• weight changes
• loss of appetite
• trouble concentrating

You can learn more about this condition by visiting our depression hub.

Effectiveness for depression

Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL have been found effective in treating depression. These medications are included as treatment options for depression in guidelines from the American Psychological Association.

To find out how these drugs performed in clinical trials, see the prescribing information for Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL.

Wellbutrin for seasonal affective disorder

Wellbutrin XL is used to help prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in adults. However, Wellbutrin SR is not approved for this use.

Seasonal affective disorder explained

With SAD, you have symptoms of depression that occur during certain times of the year. These typically occur during the winter months and get better in springtime.

The symptoms of SAD are the same as those for depression. For details, see “Wellbutrin for depression” above.

You can learn more about SAD by visiting our depression hub.

Effectiveness for seasonal affective disorder

Wellbutrin XL has been found effective in preventing SAD in clinical trials.

For more information on how Wellbutrin XL performed in clinical trials, see the drug’s prescribing information.

Wellbutrin and children

Wellbutrin is not FDA-approved for use in children. Clinical trials of the drug only included adults. It’s not known for sure whether Wellbutrin is safe or effective for children.

Wellbutrin use with other drugs

Wellbutrin is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and help prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD). (To learn more, see the “Wellbutrin uses” section above.)

For these uses, your doctor may prescribe Wellbutrin alone or in combination with other medications. Your doctor can recommend whether additional treatment for MDD or prevention of SAD is right for you.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help manage the side effects of Wellbutrin. (To learn more, see the “Wellbutrin side effects” section above.)

For example, if you have insomnia as a side effect, your doctor may prescribe medications to help you sleep. Examples of these drugs include trazodone, zolpidem (Ambien, Edluar, others), or eszopiclone (Lunesta).

If you have questions about taking Wellbutrin with other drugs, talk with a doctor or pharmacist.

Wellbutrin overdose

Taking more than the recommended dosage of Wellbutrin can lead to serious side effects. Do not take more Wellbutrin than your doctor recommends. (For information on the recommended dosages of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin dosage” section above.)

Overdose symptoms

Symptoms of an overdose can include:

• seizures
• loss of consciousness
• hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
• irregular heart rhythm
• overactive reflexes

In rare cases, an overdose of Wellbutrin may lead to death.

What to do in case of overdose

If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor. You can also call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. However, if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Wellbutrin and pregnancy

It’s not known whether Wellbutrin is safe to take during pregnancy.

Reports* of Wellbutrin’s use during pregnancy have not shown a risk of congenital anomalies (commonly known as birth defects). Animal studies have shown problems with fetal development in offspring born to animals that were given the drug during pregnancy. However, animal trials don’t always predict what happens with humans.

If you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy, talk with your doctor before taking Wellbutrin. They can recommend whether it’s safe to take Wellbutrin while pregnant.

The National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants is currently collecting information about the effects and safety of Wellbutrin when used during pregnancy. To learn more, visit the registry website or talk with your doctor.

* For more details, view the prescribing information for Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL.

Wellbutrin and birth control

It’s unknown if Wellbutrin is safe to take during pregnancy. If you’re sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs while you’re taking Wellbutrin.

For more information about taking Wellbutrin during pregnancy, see the “Wellbutrin and pregnancy” section above.

Wellbutrin and breastfeeding

Wellbutrin is known to pass into breast milk. However, it is unknown whether the drug may cause side effects in a breastfed child.

If you’re breastfeeding or considering it, talk with your doctor before taking Wellbutrin. They can advise on the risks and benefits of breastfeeding during Wellbutrin treatment. They can also recommend other healthy ways to feed your child.

Wellbutrin cost

As with all medications, the cost of Wellbutrin can vary. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.

Keep in mind that you may be able to get a 90-day supply of Wellbutrin. If approved by your insurance company, getting a 90-day supply of the drug could reduce your number of trips to the pharmacy and help lower the cost. If you’re interested in this option, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company.

Before approving coverage for Wellbutrin, your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization. This means that your doctor and insurance company will need to communicate about your prescription before the insurance company will cover the drug. The insurance company will review the prior authorization request and decide if the drug will be covered.

If you’re not sure if you’ll need to get prior authorization for Wellbutrin, contact your insurance company.

Financial and insurance assistance

If you need financial support to pay for Wellbutrin, or if you need help understanding your insurance coverage, help is available.

Wellbutrin XL has a savings and support program. For more information and to find out if you’re eligible for support, call 855-330-1963 or visit the program website.

You can search Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds to find programs that may help decrease the cost of Wellbutrin SR. To learn more, visit their websites.

For more information about saving money on prescriptions, check out this article.

Mail-order pharmacies

Wellbutrin may be available through a mail-order pharmacy. Using this service may help lower the drug’s cost and allow you to get your medication without leaving home.

If recommended by your doctor, you may be able to receive a 90-day supply of Wellbutrin, so there’s less concern about running out of the medication. If you’re interested in this option, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company. Some Medicare plans may help cover the cost of mail-order medications.

If you don’t have insurance, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist about online pharmacy options.

Generic version

Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL are available in generic versions called bupropion ER. A generic drug is an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. The generic is considered to be as safe and effective as the original drug. And generics tend to cost less than brand-name drugs. To find out how the cost of bupropion compares to the cost of Wellbutrin SR or Wellbutrin XL, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

If your doctor has prescribed Wellbutrin SR or Wellbutrin XL and you’re interested in taking bupropion instead, talk with your doctor. They may have a preference for one version or the other. You’ll also need to check your insurance plan, as it may only cover one or the other.

Wellbutrin precautions

This drug comes with several precautions. These are considered drug-condition interactions.

FDA warning: Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

This drug has a boxed warning. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A boxed warning alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This risk affects children and young adults ages 24 years or younger. However, Wellbutrin isn’t approved for use in people younger than 18 years.

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors weren’t reported in clinical trials of Wellbutrin SR or Wellbutrin XL. However, they were reported when another form of bupropion was used for smoking cessation. (Bupropion is the active drug in Wellbutrin.)

It isn’t known for certain whether Wellbutrin increases the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors when used to treat depression or help prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Still, while you’re taking the drug, it’s important to watch for the following symptoms:

• feeling sad or hopeless
• mood changes, such as irritability or agitation (restlessness)
• thoughts of death
• panic attacks

Keep in mind that suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be symptoms of depression. Wellbutrin is used to treat depression and help prevent SAD, which is a type of depression. It may be difficult to tell if your symptoms are related to Wellbutrin or the condition you’re taking the drug to treat or prevent.

If you have symptoms of suicidal thoughts or behaviors while taking Wellbutrin, tell your doctor right away. They may change your treatment plan or prescribe a different medication for you. However, if you have thoughts of harming yourself, call 911 or your local emergency number.

Other precautions

Before taking Wellbutrin, talk with your doctor about your health history. Wellbutrin may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. These include:

Seizure disorder. Wellbutrin may cause seizures as a side effect. Before taking the drug, be sure to tell your doctor if you have a seizure disorder, such as epilepsy. Your risk for seizures may be higher if you already have a seizure disorder. In this case, your doctor may prescribe a drug other than Wellbutrin for you.

Current or past eating disorder. If you have bulimia or anorexia or had them in the past, tell your doctor before taking Wellbutrin. These conditions may increase your risk of seizures as a side effect of Wellbutrin. Your doctor can recommend whether it’s safe to take this medication.

Mental health conditions. Before taking Wellbutrin, tell your doctor if you have any mental health conditions. Examples include bipolar disorder and anxiety. Wellbutrin may cause certain mental health side effects. For example, the drug may cause hypomania or mania (episodes of high energy and excitement, usually related to bipolar disorder).

Your risk of these side effects may be higher if you already have bipolar disorder. In addition, Wellbutrin could make anxiety worse for people who already have anxiety before starting treatment. If you have a mental health condition, your doctor can recommend whether it’s safe to take Wellbutrin.

Narrow eye angles. Before starting Wellbutrin treatment, tell your doctor if you have narrow eye angles. Wellbutrin may cause dilated pupils, which could lead to closed-angle glaucoma in people with narrow eye angles. Closed-angle glaucoma is a medical emergency that can cause severe eye pain and vision loss. Your doctor may suggest you have an eye exam to check for narrow angles before taking Wellbutrin.

Stopping treatment with certain drugs or use of alcohol. Before taking Wellbutrin, tell your doctor if you’ve recently stopped taking certain medications. These include epilepsy drugs, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates. Also, tell them if you’ve recently stopped drinking alcohol. Stopping taking these medications or using alcohol suddenly can increase your risk of seizures with Wellbutrin. Your doctor can tell you whether it’s safe to take Wellbutrin.

Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Wellbutrin or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Wellbutrin. Ask your doctor what other medications may be better options for you.

Pregnancy. It’s not known whether Wellbutrin is safe to take during pregnancy. For more information, see the “Wellbutrin and pregnancy” section above.

Breastfeeding. Wellbutrin passes into breast milk. However, it is unknown whether the drug is safe to take while breastfeeding. For more information, see the “Wellbutrin and breastfeeding” section above.

Note: For more information about the potential negative effects of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin side effects” section above.

How to take Wellbutrin

You should take Wellbutrin according to the instructions your doctor gives you.

Wellbutrin comes as a tablet that you swallow.

When to take

You’ll take Wellbutrin SR twice per day. Try to take your doses around the same time each day. You can take them any time of day as long as you take each dose at least 8 hours apart.

You’ll take Wellbutrin XL once per day, usually in the morning.

Taking your doses around the same time of day helps keep a steady level of the drug in your body. This helps Wellbutrin work effectively.

To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.

Accessible labels and containers

If your prescription label is hard to read, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies offer labels that have large print, braille, or a code you scan with a smartphone to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn’t have these options, your doctor or pharmacist may be able to direct you to one that does.

If you have trouble opening medication bottles, ask your pharmacist if they can put Wellbutrin in an easy-open container. They also may be able to recommend tools that can make it simpler to open lids.

Taking Wellbutrin with food

You can take Wellbutrin with or without food. However, if you have nausea as a side effect of Wellbutrin, taking your dose with food could help relieve the nausea. (For information about the side effects of Wellbutrin, see the “Wellbutrin side effects” section above.)

Can Wellbutrin be crushed, split, or chewed?

No, you should not crush, split, or chew Wellbutrin tablets. You’ll swallow Wellbutrin tablets whole.

If you have trouble swallowing the tablets, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

How Wellbutrin works

Wellbutrin is approved to:*

• treat major depressive disorder (MDD), also called depression
• help prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Wellbutrin is an antidepressant. It belongs to a drug class called norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors. The drug works by increasing levels of brain chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals are thought to help regulate mood. By increasing levels of these chemicals, Wellbutrin can help treat MDD and prevent SAD.

* To learn more about these conditions, see the “Wellbutrin uses” section above.

How long does it take to work?

Wellbutrin starts working right after your first dose. However, it may take several weeks for the symptoms of your condition to ease.