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Wellbutrin (bupropion)
Mental Health Depression Wellbutrin
Mental Health Depression Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin (bupropion) online prescription available

Wellbutrin (bupropion) can help if you are suffering from depression or trying to quit smoking. Get a same-day prescription or refill of Wellbutrin (bupropion) from a caring, board-certified doctor online.*

Mood disorder management Short-term depression relief Take control of your mental health
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
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About Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid that is available only by prescription. Wellbutrin works as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which functions by blocking receptors that norepinephrine and dopamine use to get from the brain into the neuron.

Like any norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitor, Wellbutrin (bupropion) addresses symptoms of depression and can only be used for a short period of time as part of your mental health treatment plan.

Some conditions that Wellbutrin is known to treat include depression, seasonal affective disorder, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-induced (SSRI) sexual dysfunction, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used for patients to help with smoking cessation.

Wellbutrin is available in a generic formulation known as Bupropion or Bupropion Hydrochloride. Bupropion can also be marketed under other brand names, including Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL and Zyban.

Wellbutrin may be prescribed as a daily or twice-a-day pill. It can be prescribed as a monotherapy or in combination with another antidepressant. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions when taking the medication, to ensure that the medication is working as intended. It is important to note that the typical usage of Wellbutrin is prescribed for a fixed time period that varies based on your doctor's evaluation of your health. For longer treatments, some may choose to work with an extended-release oral tablet instead of a generic daily pill.

If you are prescribed Wellbutrin, be sure to complete the full course of the antidepressant medication unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the medication may not fully treat your conditions like depression, ADHD, or any other mental health issues. Check with your healthcare provider before you stop using Wellbutrin.

Wellbutrin uses

There are many FDA-approved uses for Wellbutrin (bupropion), but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons.

It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist. Let’s discuss a few common but effective Wellbutrin uses on several medical conditions: 

Mood disorder

Wellbutrin is prescribed for major depressive disorder (MDD), seasonal affective disorder, and other mood disorders. Wellbutrin is FDA-approved for depression, and it’s one of the more popular uses due to its mood-stabilizing properties.

Smoking cessation

Wellbutrin can also help with smoking cessation. The active ingredient in Wellbutrin, buproprion, is FDA-approved for smoking cessation. This may be used as a monotherapy by itself or in combination with nicotine replacement therapy. If successful, patients are on Wellbutrin for smoking cessation for at least 12 weeks.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Wellbutrin may be prescribed off-label for ADHD. While it is not a first line medication for ADHD, it may be a good option for patients that have not had success with or have contraindications to taking stimulant medications. 

What are the pros and cons?

Wellbutrin

Pros

Does not usually cause weight gain Can help individuals quit smoking Effectively treats depression, including seasonal depression Sexual side effects less likely, compared to other antidepressants

Cons

  • Can cause sleep issues
  • May increase anxiety
  • Potential to trigger seizures for patients with a history of seizures
  • Not for people with a history of eating disorders
     

Wellbutrin side effects

Wellbutrin side effects are typically mild and do not lead to serious medical problems. In most cases, it's completely safe to take Wellbutrin for at least a year or more before any problems arise. Most Wellbutrin side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, dry mouth, insomnia, and constipation. 

Even though side effects from Wellbutrin can be mild, it’s important to address these symptoms and make sure that they don’t keep recurring.

However, because of Wellbutrin's effectiveness and long-term usage, most side effects are not serious enough to cause issues. Here are the most common side effects experienced by patients: 
Fast heart rate
Nausea
Bad taste in your mouth/dry mouth
Headache Insomnia High blood pressure
Cold hands and feet

More serious side effects, which are less common, could include:

Stomach problems
Restlessness
Mania
Seizures
Anxiety
Frequent sweating
Headaches
Sweating or shivering
Unusual colored urine
You should seek medical care if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.

Use of Wellbutrin in young children under age 18 is not advised.
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How to take Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin comes in three different types and the dose varies for each type:

 

  • Wellbutrin is a regular formation that is an immediate-release medication. This type of medication acts quickly and can be taken up to three times a day.

  • Wellbutrin SR is a sustained-release version and can be taken once or twice a day.

  • Wellbutrin XL is an extended-release version that is taken once a day.


Be sure to follow the instructions on your prescription. It is typically prescribed as a one-time tablet or oral capsule per day. Some specific instructions may include:

 

  • It must be taken 2 times daily at the same time each day.

  • Wellbutrin can be taken with food as directed on the label.


Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your prescription medication. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or nurse practitioners if you have any questions.

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What to avoid while taking Wellbutrin (buproprion)

Wellbutrin (buproprion) has 484 drug interactions involved in it. Make sure you check with your doctor or pharmacist on the possible drug interactions. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. 

It is important to follow the labels when taking Wellbutrin.

Some research shows that regular alcohol consumption may decrease the effectiveness of Wellbutrin. Alcohol can also cause your blood pressure to drop, especially if you are taking Wellbutrin with other drugs. This may increase your risk of passing out or falling. 

Alcohol may also reduce the medication’s ability to do its job, making it harder to get well. Some research also shows that when taken with other medicines or herbal supplements, it may decrease the effectiveness of Wellbutrin and increase the risk of Wellbutrin-associated side effects.

Medication alternatives to Wellbutrin

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another medication or an antidepressant in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternative medications based on your health issue:

Smoking cessation

This medicine decreases your cravings for tobacco. While brand name Chantix has been recalled, generic varenicline is still available. It is not addictive and comes in the form of an oral tablet.

Chantix (varenicline)

Nicotine addiction and mood disorders

This medicine helps you stop smoking as a nicotine replacement therapy. It is not addictive, and it does not affect your mood or emotions.

Bupropion (Zyban)

Depression

This medicine can help with your depression by acting on the brain’s serotonin system.

Zoloft (Sertraline) Prozac Celexa Lexapro (escitalopram)

Wellbutrin prescription FAQs

How much does Wellbutrin cost?

Wellbutrin costs about $30-100 per month, per doctor’s prescription. This medication is available in 1-month and 3-month supply options at a cost of about $30-100 per month. Some insurance plans and some pharmacy benefit programs will cover a portion of the cost. 

How can I refill my Wellbutrin prescription?

Follow the instructions for refilling your Wellbutrin prescription from your healthcare provider. You can also buy Wellbutrin online or refill your Wellbutrin prescription with one of our top-rated board-certified doctors.

Our doctors can refill your prescription online if you qualify. Simply book an appointment with one of our doctors, attend the visit with one of our clinicians on your phone or computer, and then they can electronically send a refill to your nearest pharmacy.

Who should not take Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin may be prescribed to anyone as treatment, but it is not recommended for:

  • Those with a medical history of eating disorders

  • Those with seizure disorder

  • Those who are pregnant or nursing

  • Children who are less than 18 years age 

What should you avoid when taking Wellbutrin?

You should avoid taking Wellbutrin with alcohol and other drugs. In addition, consult your doctor for medical advice if you are currently prescribed other medications to avoid any possible drug interactions.

How long does it take to get used to taking Wellbutrin?

It takes a few weeks to adjust to Wellbutrin. Consult with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing side effects from the medication.

What happens if I miss a dose of Wellbutrin?

If you miss a dose of Wellbutrin, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Avoid double doses.

What happens if I take too much Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin should be taken according to your prescription. Never take more than one dose of Wellbutrin at once as you may experience seizure or an accidental overdose. Please call your local poison control center if you accidentally ingested more than your prescribed dose.

Is Wellbutrin (bupropion) available over the counter?

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is available by prescription only and can't be purchased over the counter. While it can be effective, it's important to be aware of the potential side effects and contraindications before using it. While it's a popular medication that is helpful for treating depression and other conditions, Wellbutrin is not suitable for everyone. Some of the reasons a doctor might not prescribe it include the risk of seizures in someone with a history of them, the possibility of making an existing eating disorder worse, a history of bipolar disorder (it can trigger manic episodes), and if a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding. Wellbutrin can also interact with certain medications that you may already be taking.

Wellbutrin also has the risk of other serious side effects. Only a qualified doctor can decide if Wellbutrin is the right prescription medication for you. Schedule a doctor appointment online or talk to your local healthcare provider if you have questions about Wellbutrin.

3 simple steps to request your Wellbutrin prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a Wellbutrin (bupropion) prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Wellbutrin prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Wellbutrin prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Wellbutrin prescription pricing details

To get a new or refill on your Wellbutrin (bupropion) prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

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Paying without insurance

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Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.