eMedExpert Home > Products Advertisement

• Active ingredient: Bupropion hydrochloride
• Brand names: Wellbutrin®, Wellbutrin SR®, Wellbutrin XL®, Budeprion XL®
• Class: Amino ketone Antidepressant, Norepinephrine and Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor
• Legal status: Prescription (RX)

Wellbutrin XL® (GlaxoSmithKline) is an extended-release formulation of bupropion hcl, a prescription antidepressant with unique action on noradrenaline and dopamine.

Wellbutrin® is used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder (winter blues). Zyban® (bupropion SR) is licensed for smoking cessation.

Budeprion XL (manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals) is a generic version of Wellbutrin XL.

Product	Quantity	Price	More info
Bupropion SR 150 mg	60 tablets	$155
Bupropion SR 150 mg	180 tablets	$245
Budeprion XL 300 mg	30 tablets	$155
Budeprion XL 300 mg	90 tablets	$245

The main difference is that the SR (sustained release) lasts for 12 hour and is taken twice daily, while the XL (extended release) lasts for 24 hour and is taken once daily. Also, XL formulation is less likely to cause seizures.

Some people notice a difference in how different brands of bupropion perform. Wellbutrin XL may work better than the generic equivalent Budeprion XL.

Bupropion is the most stimulating antidepressant due to its dopaminergic activity.

Bupropion is the best antidepressant for depression with symptoms of fatigue, low energy, lack of motivation and interest 2. Bupropion may help to boost energy, motivation, and eliminate fatigue. This allows a depressed person to refocus the attention and become more engaged in meaningful life.

Bupropion does not work as good when depression is accompanied by prominent anxiety or agitation.

How long does it take for Wellbutrin to work?

It takes about 2 weeks to notice an improvement, and may require 4-6 weeks to get the full benefit.

Sustained-release (SR): Initially, 150 mg once daily; may increase to 150 mg twice daily by day 4. Maximum dose 400 mg daily.

Extended-release (XL): Initially, 150 mg once daily in the morning; may increase on day 4 to 300 mg/day. Maximum dose 450 mg daily.

Prescription for Wellbutrin XL is inappropriate and you may need to discuss with your doctor an alternative treatment if you:

• have seizure disorder, bulimia or anorexia nervosa
• are abruptly discontinuing alcohol or sedatives
• are taking MAO inhibitors.

Bupropion should be used with caution in people taking levodopa or amantadine, as these agents can potentially enhance dopamine neurotransmission and be activating; and in people with bipolar disorder.

Wellbutrin XL allows to treat depression without sexual dysfunction and weight gain.

The most common undesirable effects, particularly in the first few weeks, are insomnia, headache, dry mouth, nausea, agitation, anxiety, and decreased appetite.

Buying Wellbutrin XL (Bupropion)

US customers can purchase Budeprion XL or Bupropion SR from a real U.S. based pharmacy located in Pittsburgh, PA which offers free medical consultation and online prescription. Bupropion hcl is not available without a prescription.

• 1. Lacy CF, Armstrong LL, Goldman MP, Lance LL. Drug Information Handbook, 18th ed. Hudson, Ohio, Lexi-Comp, Inc.; 2010: 223-6.
• 2. Jefferson JW, Rush AJ, Nelson JC, VanMeter SA, Krishen A, Hampton KD, Wightman DS, Modell JG. Bupropion SR for patients with major depressive disorder presenting with symptoms of reduced energy, pleasure, and interest. J Clin Psychiatry. 2006 Jun;67(6):865-73.

Last updated: April 24, 2012