Wellbutrin 75 mg 100 mg SR 100 mg 150 mg 200 mg XL 150 mg 300 mg

What is Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin is the brand name for bupropion, a prescription medicine used to treat major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and as part of a program to help people quit smoking. It is available as immediate release 75 mg and 100 mg tablets, sustained release (SR) 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg tablets taken twice daily, and extended release (XL) 150 mg and 300 mg tablets taken once daily. The different forms allow flexibility in dosing schedules and help maintain steady blood levels to improve tolerability.

People often choose bupropion when they want an antidepressant that is less likely to cause sexual side effects or weight gain. It can also help counteract fatigue and low motivation. For smoking cessation, a specific brand and dosing schedule is used alongside behavioral support. Many compare prices for generic bupropion or buy refills online from licensed U.S. pharmacies to lower costs. Cheap options are fine when labeling is clear, the strength matches the prescription, and a pharmacist is available for questions.

How It Works

Bupropion inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, increasing their levels in the brain. These neurotransmitters influence mood, focus, and reward pathways. For depression, this mechanism can help restore normal brain signaling patterns that support interest, pleasure, and energy. In smoking cessation, bupropion’s dopamine effect reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while its norepinephrine action helps stabilize mood and attention.

Unlike SSRIs, bupropion does not directly affect serotonin reuptake, which explains its lower incidence of sexual side effects and weight gain. It also tends to be activating rather than sedating, which can be helpful for people with low energy but may cause insomnia in sensitive users.

What to expect

Some people feel an improvement in energy and concentration within 1 to 2 weeks, with mood benefits typically building over 4 to 6 weeks. For smoking cessation, cravings often lessen within the first week of treatment, especially when combined with a quit date and support plan.

Dosage Information

Dosing depends on the condition, formulation, and your individual response. Always follow the prescription label and never exceed the total daily maximum, as this increases seizure risk.

• Depression adults SR: Start 150 mg once daily in the morning for 3 days, then 150 mg twice daily at least 8 hours apart. Maximum 400 mg per day split into two doses.
• Depression adults XL: Start 150 mg once daily in the morning; may increase to 300 mg once daily after several days. Some need 450 mg once daily under specialist guidance.
• Seasonal affective disorder XL: Common start is 150 mg once daily in early fall, increasing to 300 mg once daily if tolerated. Continue through winter and taper in spring per plan.
• Smoking cessation SR: 150 mg once daily for 3 days, then 150 mg twice daily. Set a quit date during the second week of treatment.

How to take it

Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush, split, or chew sustained or extended release forms. Take in the morning to reduce insomnia risk. If you miss a dose, skip it and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not double up. For SR, keep doses at least 8 hours apart.

Cost and access tips

Generic bupropion is widely available and often less expensive. Buying online from a licensed pharmacy can lower cost, but verify U.S. licensure, strength, and expiration date. Cheap pricing is fine when those checks are met.

Side Effects

Common side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, headache, nausea, constipation, and mild anxiety. Many improve as your body adjusts over 1 to 2 weeks. Insomnia can often be reduced by taking doses earlier in the day.

Less common but important

• Seizures: Risk increases with higher doses, eating disorders, heavy alcohol use, abrupt alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal, or certain medical conditions. Follow dose limits strictly.
• Blood pressure changes: May cause mild increases. Monitor if you have hypertension.
• Mood changes: Report any new or worsening depression, agitation, or suicidal thoughts promptly.
• Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing require urgent care.

Most side effects are manageable with timing adjustments, hydration, and steady routines.

Warnings & Interactions

Bupropion is contraindicated in people with a seizure disorder, current or prior bulimia or anorexia nervosa, those undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol or sedatives, or those with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should be used with caution in people with hypertension, liver disease, kidney disease, or a history of bipolar disorder due to the risk of mood switching.

Drug interactions

• MAO inhibitors: Contraindicated within 14 days of use due to risk of severe hypertension.
• Drugs that lower seizure threshold: Certain antipsychotics, antidepressants, theophylline, systemic steroids; risk is additive.
• Nicotine replacement: Can increase blood pressure; monitor closely if combined for smoking cessation.
• CYP2B6 inhibitors/inducers: May affect bupropion levels. Examples include ritonavir, lopinavir, and efavirenz.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Decisions should be individualized. Bupropion is sometimes used in pregnancy when benefits outweigh risks. Small amounts pass into breast milk. Discuss with your clinician before starting or continuing during breastfeeding.

Practical safety tips

Take doses in the morning, keep tablets intact, and avoid alcohol binges. Track mood, sleep, and cravings if quitting smoking. If you buy online, choose licensed pharmacies with clear labeling and expiration dates. Cheap pricing is acceptable when those checks are met.