Bupropion

Bupropion is a popular antidepressant that comes in three different forms: bupropion, bupropion SR and bupropion XL.

They also have brand names. Bupropion is the same as Wellbutrin. Bupropion SR is the same as Wellbutrin SR. And bupropion XL is the same as Wellbutrin XL.

All 3 medications have the same active ingredient, bupropion. But they work differently in the body. You can’t substitute one for another without calculating the correct dosage changes.

Bupropion is an immediate-release medication. When you take it, all the drug enters your body at one time. You typically take Wellbutrin two or three times a day.

Bupropion SR is a sustained-release form. You usually take it twice a day.

Bupropion XL is an extended-release form. The drug enters your body more slowly and stays in your body longer. You only need to take it once a day.

All forms of bupropion are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs). They help increase levels of chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain.

These chemicals help you feel well and can improve symptoms of depression like insomnia, lack of interest, loss of appetite, and depressed feelings.

Once you start bupropion, bupropion SR, or bupropion XL, poor sleep, energy, and appetite should improve within the first 1 to 2 weeks.

Symptoms like depressed mood and low interest in activities you once enjoyed can take 4 to 6 weeks to improve.

You should notice the full effects of bupropion within 6-8 weeks of taking the medication consistently- sometimes it works sooner.

Yes—bupropion, bupropion SR, and bupropion XL are approved to treat depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD).

Bupropion XL is also approved for the prevention of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Bupropion SR is available in 150 and 200 mg sustained-release tablets. You take Bupropion SR twice a day.

Bupropion XL is available in 150 and 300 mg extended-release tablets. Usually you will take 150 mg or 300 mg of bupropion XL once a day.

Bupropion is an effective antidepressant, but like all medications, there are potential side effects. In all of its forms, bupropion can cause diarrhea or constipation, agitation, dizziness, anxiety, dry mouth, or tremors. Potential seizures are also a risk.

You should only take bupropion, bupropion SR, or bupropion XL under the care and direction of a medical team.

Our Lemonaid doctors and nurse practitioners are ready to chat with you by video. If you’re a good candidate, they can write a prescription for bupropion right away.