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
- Mental Health
- Depression
Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin (bupropion) prescription available online
If you are suffering from depression or trying to quit smoking, Wellbutrin (bupropion) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Wellbutrin (bupropion) from a board-certified doctor online.*
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Mood disorder management
Short-term depression relief
Take control of your mental health
*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.
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 chronic anorexia, sleep disturbances, chronic anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), stress, and anxiety.
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 weekly pill, or it can be taken as a single daily dose 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 anxiety, insomnia, depression, and 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:
Anxiety disorders
Wellbutrin is prescribed to treat the anxiety disorder known as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). This is a common anxiety disorder that has a wide variety of symptoms that may require both prescription medication with therapies (e.g., talk therapy) as part of the treatment plan.
Mood disorder
Wellbutrin is prescribed for bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), seasonal affective disorder, panic disorder, and other mood disorders. This is another common Wellbutrin use. It’s one of the more popular uses due to the mood-stabilizing properties of Wellbutrin.
What are the pros and cons?
Wellbutrin
Cons
Can cause sleep issues
May increase anxiety
Potential to trigger 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:Mild to moderate heartburn (GERD)
Loss of appetite
A bad taste in your mouth
Weight gain (though some experience weight loss)
Frequent urinary tract infections
Low blood pressure
Cold hands and feet
More serious side effects, which are less common, could include:Stomach problems
Restlessness
Anxiety
Frequent sweating
Headaches
Sweating or shivering
Unusual colored urine
You should call your doctor or nurse practitioners 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 12 is not advised.
It has been found that sexual dysfunction does happen as often as a side effect when using Wellbutrin (bupropion) compared to other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
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. This is usually in the morning.
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.
What to avoid while taking Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin 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, such as Chantix or Zyban, or an antidepressant in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternative medications based on your health issue:
Drugs and smoking addiction
This medicine decreases your cravings for tobacco and alcohol. It is not addictive and comes in the form of an oral tablet.
Nicotine addiction and mood disorders
Bupropion (Zyban)
This medicine helps you stop smoking as a nicotine replacement therapy. It is not addictive, and it does not affect your mood or emotions.
Anxiety and depression
This medicine can help with your depression and anxiety by acting on the brain’s serotonin system.
Depression, mania, insomnia, and panic attacks
Wellbutrin with venlafaxine and olanzapine
This medication combination is an FDA-approved combination for people who suffer from major depressive disorder or mania, as well as with anxiety.
Wellbutrin prescription FAQs
How much does Wellbutrin cost?
Wellbutrin costs about $280 per month, per doctor’s prescription. This medication is available in 1-month and 3-month supply options at a cost of about $800 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 medical history of substance abuse
Those with seizure disorder
Those who are pregnant or nursing
Children who are less than 15 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.
How do you feel when you first start taking Wellbutrin?
You may feel drowsy. If this is your first dose of Wellbutrin, your doctor may start you on a smaller dose than the normal adult dose. You may experience improvement in energy level, appetite or daily outlook within a week or two of taking Wellbutrin (XL).
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.
3 simple steps to request your Wellbutrin prescription today
Step 1
Book a Wellbutrin (bupropion) prescription request appointment.
Book a same-day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Wellbutrin prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up your Wellbutrin prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Wellbutrin prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Wellbutrin (bupropion) prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
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$14.99/month
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Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
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Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
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
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
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Wellbutrin prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). "Bupropion (Wellbutrin)." NAMI, accessed on October 5, 2023, https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Bupropion-(Wellbutrin).
MedlinePlus. "Bupropion." U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, accessed on October 5, 2023, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695033.html.
Ethical Doctor. "America's Most Popular Drugs: Wellbutrin." Ethical Doctor, accessed on October 5, 2023, www.ethicaldoctor.org/medical-ethics/articles/americas-most-popular-drugs/wellbutrin/.
Rx Outreach. "Wellbutrin." Rx Outreach, accessed on October 5, 2023, https://rxoutreach.org/monograph/wellbutrin/
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.