How long do body aches last with wellbutrin
Common and Rare Side Effects for Wellbutrin XL
COMMON side effects
If experienced, these tend to have a Severe expression i
If experienced, these tend to have a Less Severe expression i
INFREQUENT side effects
If experienced, these tend to have a Severe expression i
If experienced, these tend to have a Less Severe expression i
RARE side effects
If experienced, these tend to have a Severe expression i
If experienced, these tend to have a Less Severe expression i
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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Bupropion (Wellbutrin) | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
Brand names:
- Wellbutrin SR®
- Tablets: 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg
- Wellbutrin XL®
- Tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg
- Zyban®
- Tablets: 150 mg
- Forfivo XL®
- Tablets: 450 mg
- Aplenzin®
- Tablets: 174 mg, 348 mg, 522 mg
- Bupropion hydrochloride
- Immediate release tablets: 75mg, 100 mg
- Sustained release tablets: 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg
- Extended release tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg
- Bupropion hydrobromide
- Extended release tablets: 174 mg, 348 mg, 522 mg
Generic name: bupropion (byoo PRO pee on)
All FDA black box warnings are at the end of this fact sheet. Please review before taking this medication.
What Is Bupropion And What Does It Treat?
Bupropion is an antidepressant medication that works in the brain.
It is approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and to help people quit smoking (smoking cessation).
Symptoms of depression include:
- Depressed mood - feeling sad, empty, or tearful
- Feeling worthless, guilty, hopeless, and helpless
- Loss of interest or pleasure in your usual activities
- Sleep and eat more or less than usual (for most people it is less)
- Low energy, trouble concentrating, or thoughts of death (suicidal thinking)
- Psychomotor agitation (‘nervous energy’)
- Psychomotor retardation (feeling like you are moving and thinking in slow motion)
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
SAD is a type of depression that occurs mainly during the autumn-winter season. Although the common term SAD is now referred to as Major Depression with Seasonal Pattern, this fact sheet will continue to use SAD as it is more commonly known.
Bupropion may also be helpful when prescribed “off-label” for bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, and sexual dysfunction due to SSRI antidepressants.
“Off-label” means that it hasn’t been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this condition. Your mental health provider should justify his or her thinking in recommending an “off-label” treatment. They should be clear about the limits of the research around that medication and if there are any other options.
What Is The Most Important Information I Should Know About Bupropion?
After starting bupropion, symptoms gradually decrease over a period of weeks. In MDD and SAD, sleep and other physical symptoms may improve before there is noticeable improvement in mood or interest in activities. Once symptoms are under control, MDD usually requires long-term treatment to help prevent the return of depressive symptoms. If you are using bupropion for SAD or smoking cessation, the length of your treatment may be shorter. With input from you, your health care provider will assess how long you will need to take the medicine.
Do not stop taking bupropion or change your dose without talking with your health care provider first.
Depression is also a part of bipolar illness. People with bipolar disorder who take antidepressants may be at risk for "switching" from depression into mania. Symptoms of mania include "high" or irritable mood, very high self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, pressure to keep talking, racing thoughts, being easily distracted, frequently involved in activities with a large risk for bad consequences (for example, excessive buying sprees).
Are There Specific Concerns About Bupropion And Pregnancy?
If you are planning on becoming pregnant, notify your health care provider to best manage your medications. People living with MDD who wish to become pregnant face important decisions, each with risks and benefits as they relate to how the illness, medications, and risks to the fetus may interact. Untreated MDD has risks to the fetus, as well as the mother. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor and caregivers.
Bupropion has also been evaluated for smoking cessation during pregnancy and is recommended only after other therapies have failed.
Caution is advised with breastfeeding since bupropion does pass into breast milk.
What Should I Discuss With My Health Care Provider Before Taking Bupropion?
- Symptoms of your condition that bother you most
- If you have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself
- Medications you have taken in the past for your condition, whether they were effective or caused any adverse effects
- If you experience side effects from your medications, discuss them with your provider. Some side effects may pass with time, but others may require an adjustment in the medication.
- Any other psychiatric or medical problems you have, including a history of bipolar disorder
- All other medications you are currently taking and any medication allergies you have. This will help your prescriber assess for potential drug interactions.
- Other non-medication treatment you are receiving (such as psychotherapy (i.e., talk therapy) or substance abuse treatment).
Your provider can explain how these different treatments work with the medication. - If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
- If you drink alcohol or use drugs
How Should I Take Bupropion?
Bupropion hydrochloride is available in 3 different forms: immediate release (IR), sustained release (SR), and extended release (XL).
Bupropion IR is usually taken 2 or 3 times per day with 4-6 hours between doses. The dose usually ranges from 100 mg twice daily to 150 mg three times daily, with the last dose taken mid-afternoon.
Bupropion SR is usually taken twice daily in the morning and mid-afternoon. The dose usually ranges from 100 mg twice daily up to 200 mg twice daily.
Bupropion XL is usually taken once daily in the morning. The dose ranges from 150 mg to 450 mg.
Bupropion hydrobromide (Aplenzin®) is usually taken once daily in the morning. The dose ranges from 174 mg to 522 mg.
While there are dose ranges for each form, your health care provider will determine the form and dose that is right for you based on your response.
The dose for SAD is bupropion XL 150 mg once daily in the morning. The dose may be increased to 300 mg once daily.
The dose for smoking cessation is bupropion SR 150 mg once daily for 3 days and then twice daily for 7 to 12 weeks.
You should not take more than one product that contains bupropion, including the products that are used to quit smoking. Do not take more than your prescribed dose since higher doses may increase your risk of having a seizure. Since quickly increasing the dose of bupropion can cause seizures in some people, your doctor will slowly increase your dose.
You can take bupropion on an empty stomach or with food. The SR and XL forms should be swallowed whole — not chewed, crushed, or broken — so that the medication can work correctly in your body and to reduce the risk of serious side effects. The tablet shell from the SR and XL forms may appear in your feces.
Consider using a calendar, pillbox, alarm clock, or cell phone alert to help you remember to take your medication.
You may also ask a family member or friend to remind you or check in with you to be sure you are taking your medication.
What Happens If I Miss A Dose Of Bupropion?
For bupropion IR or SR, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Take the remaining doses for the day at evenly spaced times at least 4 hours apart. DO NOT take 2 doses at once. You should not take more than your prescribed dose and doing so may increase your risk of having a seizure.
For bupropion XL, do not take an extra tablet to make up for the dose you forgot. Wait and take your next dose at your regular time the next day.
What Should I Avoid While Taking Bupropion?
Avoid drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs while you are taking bupropion because the beneficial effects of the medication may be decreased and the risk of seizures may be increased. If you are dependent on drugs or alcohol and would like to stop, consult your healthcare provider for help. Abruptly stopping these substances can result in a seizure, especially when taking bupropion.
What Happens If I Overdose With Bupropion?
If an overdose occurs, call your doctor or 911. You may need urgent medical care. You may also contact the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Bupropion?
Common side effects
Headache, weight loss, dry mouth, trouble sleeping (insomnia), nausea, dizziness, constipation, fast heartbeat, and sore throat. These will often improve over the first week or two as you continue to take the medication.
Rare/serious side effects
Less than 10% of patients will experience skin rash, sweating, ringing in the ears, shakiness, stomach pain, muscle pain, thought disturbances, anxiety or angle closure glaucoma (symptoms of angle closure glaucoma may include eye pain, changes in vision, swelling or redness in or around eye).
Unlike many antidepressants, bupropion does not commonly cause sexual side effects and may be selected as an alternative treatment when antidepressant-induced sexual side effects are problematic.
Sexual side effects include such problems as difficulty achieving orgasm or ejaculatory delay.
In general the risk of seizures due to bupropion is low. The risk of having a seizure increases with higher than recommended doses of bupropion, a history of seizures or head injury, tumor in the brain, severe liver disease, an eating disorder, alcohol or drug dependence, or taking other drugs that can also increase your risk of having a seizure.
There is a low risk of cardiovascular adverse events associated with stimulating agents, including bupropion. This risk increases if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, previous heart attack, or irregular heartbeat, or when used with transdermal nicotine replacement products. In these cases, a thorough cardiovascular evaluation is recommended before starting this medicine.
Are There Any Risks For Taking Bupropion For Long Periods Of Time?
To date, there are no known problems associated with long term use of bupropion.
It is a safe and effective medication when used as directed.
What Other Medications May Interact With Bupropion?
Bupropion should not be taken with or within two weeks of taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These include phenelzine (Nardil®), tranycypromine (Parnate®), isocarboxazid (Marplan®), and selegiline (Emsam®).
There are several products with the active ingredient bupropion. Do not take more than one product that contains bupropion since this may increase your risk of having a seizure.
Certain medications may increase your risk of having a seizure when combined with bupropion. These include other antidepressants, antipsychotics, theophylline, isoniazid, tramadol, stimulants, steroids, hypoglycemic agents (including insulin), certain antibiotics (e.g., Cipro®), and abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines (e.g., Ativan®).
Notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of the following medications: phenytoin (Dilantin®), carbamazepine (Tegretol®, Equetro®), phenobarbital, cimetidine (Tagamet®), ritonavir (Norvir®), lopinavir (Kaletra™), nelfinavir (Viracept®), or efavirenz (Sustiva®).
These medications can change the way your body reacts to bupropion.
Notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of the following medications: atomoxetine (Stratterra®), codeine, tamoxifen, tetrabenazine, thioridazine (Mellaril®), tramadol (Ultram®), or a tricyclic antidepressant. Bupropion can change the way your body reacts to these medications.
How Long Does It Take For Bupropion To Work?
Sleep, energy, or appetite may show some improvement within the first 1-2 weeks. Improvement in these physical symptoms can be an important early signal that the medication is working. Depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may need up to 6-8 weeks to fully improve.
Summary of FDA Black Box Warnings
Suicidal thoughts or actions in children and adults
Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), both adult and pediatric, may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressant medications.
This risk may persist until significant remission occurs.
In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidality in children, adolescents and young adults when compared to placebo. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24. Adults ages 65 and older taking antidepressants have a decreased risk of suicidality. Patients, their families and caregivers should be alert to the emergence of anxiety, restlessness, irritability, aggressiveness and insomnia. If these symptoms emerge, they should be reported to the patient’s prescriber or healthcare professional. All patients being treated with antidepressants for any indication should watch for and notify their healthcare provider for worsening symptoms, suicidality and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the first few months of treatment.
Provided by
(December 2020)
©2020 The College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists (CPNP) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
CPNP and NAMI make this document available under the Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivatives 4.0 International License. Last Updated: January 2016.
This information is being provided as a community outreach effort of the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists. This information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. This information contains a summary of important points and is not an exhaustive review of information about the medication. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding medications or medical conditions. Never delay seeking professional medical advice or disregard medical professional advice as a result of any information provided herein. The College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists disclaims any and all liability alleged as a result of the information provided herein.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Adult Medication
Share Provided by Lexicomp ® , this document contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.
Trade names: USA
Aplenzin; Forfivo XL; Wellbutrin SR; Wellbutrin XL; Zyban[DSC] nine0003
Trade names: Canada
MYLAN-BuPROPion XL [DSC]; ODAN Bupropion SR; TARO-Bupropion XL; TEVA-Bupropion XL; Wellbutrin SR; Wellbutrin XL; Zyban
Warning
- Drugs like this have increased the likelihood of suicidal thoughts or actions in children and young people. This risk may be higher in people who have tried or had suicidal thoughts in the past. All people taking this drug must be closely monitored. If you develop or worsen disorders such as depression, nervousness, anxiety, grouchiness, panic attacks, and changes in mood or behavior, contact your doctor immediately. Contact your doctor immediately if you have suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts. nine0006
What is this drug used for?
- Used to treat depression.
- Used to prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
- Used to stop smoking.
- This drug may also be used for other indications.
Consult your doctor.
What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?
- If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested. nine0006
- If you have ever had seizures.
- If you abuse alcohol and suddenly stopped using it.
- If you are taking certain other drugs, such as anticonvulsants or tranquilizers, and you stop taking them abruptly.
- If you have ever had an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia.
- If you have any of the following health conditions: kidney disease or liver disease. nine0006
- If you have taken medications for depression or Parkinson's disease in the past 14 days. These include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline. An episode of very high blood pressure may occur.
- If you are taking any of the following drugs: linezolid or methylene blue.
- If you are taking another drug that contains the same medicine.
This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive. nine0003
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (both prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor's advice. nine0003
What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?
For all patients taking this drug:
- Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
- Avoid driving or doing other tasks or jobs that require alertness or keen eyesight until you know how this drug affects you. nine0006
- This drug may affect the results of some lab tests.
Tell all your health care workers and laboratory staff that you are taking this drug.
- Do not stop taking this drug abruptly without consulting your doctor. This can increase the risk of side effects. If necessary, taking this drug should be stopped gradually, in accordance with the recommendations of the doctor.
- High blood pressure has happened with this drug. Monitor your blood pressure as directed by your doctor. nine0006
- This drug may increase the risk of seizures. The risk may be increased in people who take higher doses of the drug, who have certain health problems, or who use certain other drugs. People who abruptly stop drinking large amounts of alcohol or abruptly stop taking certain medications (such as drugs used for anxiety, insomnia, or seizures) are also at higher risk. Talk to your doctor to find out if you have an increased risk of seizures. nine0006
- Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.
- Check with your doctor before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can slow you down.
- It may take several weeks to achieve full effect.
- This drug is not approved for use in children. Consult your doctor.
- If you are 65 years of age or older, use this drug with caution. You may experience more side effects. nine0006
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.
If you smoke:
- Not all drugs are approved for use to help you quit smoking. Check with your doctor to make sure you get the right drug.
- When using bupropion for smoking cessation, the appearance of new or aggravation of existing disorders of the psyche, mood or behavior was noted. These disturbances include suicidal or homicidal thoughts, depression, violent acts, rage, anxiety and anger. These disorders have been observed in people with and without mental and mood disorders in the past. Consult your doctor. nine0006
What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?
WARNING.
In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be associated with serious side effects:
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly in combination with fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat. nine0006
- Signs of high blood pressure, such as a very severe headache, or dizziness, or loss of consciousness, or blurred vision.
- Feelings of confusion, inability to concentrate, or changes in behavior.
- Hallucinations (a person sees or hears something that is not in reality).
- If, after starting the medication, seizures become more frequent or severe.
- Chest pain, angina pectoris, tachycardia, or abnormal heart rhythm.
nine0006 - Inflammation.
- Dyspnea.
- Hearing change.
- Tinnitus.
- Frequent urination.
- Swelling of the gland.
- Violation of motor functions.
- Some patients may be at increased risk of eye problems when using this drug. Your doctor may order an eye examination to see if you are at increased risk for these eye problems. Call your doctor right away if you have eye pain, vision changes, swelling or redness around the eye. nine0006
- Possible severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis). This can lead to severe health problems, which can be permanent, and sometimes death. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as redness, swelling of the skin with blistering or peeling (with or without fever), redness or irritation of the eyes, and sores in the mouth, throat, nose, or eyes. nine0006
What are some other side effects of this drug?
Any medicine can have side effects.
However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention if these or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
All formulations:
- Dizziness or headache.
- Constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite. nine0006
- Shiver.
- Nervous tension and agitation.
- Strange or unusual dreams.
- Gas formation.
- Dry mouth.
- Sleep disorders.
- Pain in the joints or muscles.
- Irritation of the nose or throat.
- Excessive sweating.
- Unexplained fluctuations in weight.
Extended release tablets:
- The tablet shell of some brand name drugs can sometimes be seen in the stool. For drugs of these brands, this is normal and does not cause concern. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor. nine0006
This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive.
If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.
You can report side effects to the National Health Board.
You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. nine0003
What is the best way to take this drug?
Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.
For all uses of this drug:
- Do not take the drug more often than prescribed. This may increase your risk of developing seizures. Make sure you know at what intervals you need to use the drug.
- Take in the morning if you are taking this drug once a day. nine0006
- Take this drug with or without food.
- If you cannot sleep, do not take this drug at bedtime. Consult your doctor.
- Swallow whole. Do not chew, break or crush.
- Keep taking this drug as instructed by your doctor or other health care professional, even if you feel well.
- If you have difficulty swallowing, check with your doctor. nine0006
For smoking cessation:
- You can take this drug for 1 week before you stop smoking.
- Nicotine replacement and psychological help can be done at the same time for best results.
- If you have not been able to stop smoking after 12 weeks of taking this drug, talk with your doctor.
- When you try to quit smoking, you may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms even if you use quit smoking drugs like this drug. There are many signs of nicotine withdrawal. People who are trying to quit smoking have occasionally experienced depression and suicidal thoughts. Consult with your physician. nine0006
What if I miss a dose of a drug?
- Skip the forgotten dose and return to your regular schedule.
- Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.
How do I store and/or discard this drug?
- Store at room temperature, protected from light.
Store in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom. - Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets. nine0006
- Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.
General information about medicines
- If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor. nine0006
- Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people's medicines.
- Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
- A separate instruction for patients is attached to the drug. Please read this information carefully. Reread it each time you refill your supply. If you have any questions about this drug, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
nine0006 - If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.
Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability
This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient's specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications.
This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its subsidiaries disclaim any warranties or liabilities related to this information or its use. The use of this information is subject to the Terms of Use found at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms. nine0003
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Wellbutrin vs Prozac: Key Differences and Similarities - Drug Vs. Friend
Home >> Drug Vs. Friend >> Wellbutrin vs Prozac: Differences, Similarities & Which One Is Best for You
Anti-drug Wellbutrin and Prozac are prescription drugs that treat depression
Key differences | Conditions of treatment | Efficiency | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug Interactions | Warnings | Frequently Asked Questions
Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Prozac (fluoxetine) are medicines that can treat: depression.
In particular, these drugs are prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Symptoms of major depressive disorder may include feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in daily activities, and trouble sleeping. nine0003
Wellbutrin and Prozac are only available with a prescription from a doctor or health care provider. Although they have similar uses, Wellbutrin and Prozac work differently and have different side effects. Keep reading to learn more about the similarities and differences between Wellbutrin and Prozac.
What are the main differences between Wellbutrin and Prozac?
Wellbutrin is an aminoketone antidepressant, also known by the generic name bupropion. The exact mode of action of Wellbutrin is not well understood. However, it is thought to increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters called norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
People with depression may have an imbalance of these neurotransmitters. Unlike other commonly prescribed antidepressants, Wellbutrin does not affect serotonin levels. nine0003
Wellbutrin is available in three different formulations: immediate release (IR), sustained release (SR) and extended release (XL). Depending on the dosage form, Wellbutrin can be taken once, twice or three times a day. The active ingredient in Wellbutrin, bupropion, is also sold as Zyban to support smoking cessation.
Prozac is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants. It is also known by the generic name fluoxetine. Prozac belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These drugs work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin to help relieve symptoms of depression. nine0003
Prozac is available as daily oral capsules. The exact dosage depends on the condition being treated. Prozac is also available as a delayed-release capsule that is taken once a week.
| Differences between Vellbutrin and Prozak | ||
|---|---|---|
| Wellbutrin 9030 | Prozak | Grade0300 Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor |
| Brand/generic status | Brands and generics available | Brands and generics available |
| Bupropion | Fluoxetine | |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Oral tablet | Oral capsule, Expired |
| What is the standard dosage? | 100 mg thrice daily Dosage dependent on condition | 20 mg once daily Dosage dependent on condition |
| How long does typical treatment last? | Long term depending on the condition being treated | Long term depending on the condition being treated |
| Who usually takes this medicine? | Adults | Adults; children 8 years and older (depression) |
Conditions treated by Wellbutrin and Prozac
All forms of Wellbutrin are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of major depressive disorder, also known as major depression .
Wellbutrin XL, an extended-release form of Wellbutrin, is also approved to prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that develops during seasonal changes. Wellbutrin is sometimes used off-label to treat bipolar disorder. nine0003
Prozac is FDA approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Also approved for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic disorder, as well as an eating disorder called bulimia nervosa. When used with an antipsychotic called Zyprexa (olanzapine), Prozac is used to treat depressive episodes in people with bipolar disorder. Some people with depression may not respond to other medications, so they may be given Prozac and Zyprexa (olanzapine). Prozac is marketed under the different brand name Sarafem for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. nine0300 not for the purpose of
Is Wellbutrin more effective than Prozac?
Wellbutrin and Prozac are effective prescription drugs for treating depression.
The best antidepressant will depend on a number of factors such as cost, individual response to treatment, and possible side effects. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for your condition. nine0003
According to one double-blind comparative study, bupropion and fluoxetine were found to be similar in efficacy for treating depression. The study was conducted over a period of seven weeks using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, among other tools to assess the effectiveness of treatment. Both bupropion and fluoxetine helped relieve symptoms of depression without serious side effects.
One systematic review found Wellbutrin to be an effective and safe drug compared to other antidepressants. Wellbutrin may have fewer side effects compared to SSRIs. It also causes fewer sexual side effects and weight gain than other antidepressants. nine0003
A systematic review found Prozac to be an effective treatment for several mental health conditions, including depression, bulimia, and OCD.
Some of the studies included in the review found Prozac to be more effective than placebo. It has also been found to be as effective as Anafranil (clomipramine) for treating OCD.
Wellbutrin vs. Prozac Coverage and Cost Comparison
The average cost of Wellbutrin XL without insurance is about $194 dollars. Wellbutrin XL is available in generic form, which is usually covered by most Medicare and health insurance plans. With a SingleCare Prescription Discount Card, you can reduce the cost of your generic drug. Wellbutrin XL up to about $5, depending on dosage and amount prescribed.
Prozac is available in generic form. This is usually covered by most insurance plans. The average cash price for Prozac is about $300. However, the price may vary depending on the prescribed dosage and quantity. A SingleCare prescription discount card for generic Prozac is available, which can help bring the cost down to $4. nine0003
| Wellbutrin | Prozac | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Usually covered? | yes | yes | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Usually covered by Medicare Part D? | yes | yes | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amount | 30 tablets | 30 capsules | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Medicare type0003 The most common side effects of Prozac include sexual dysfunction, decreased sex drive, diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and drowsiness. Serious side effects of Wellbutrin and Prozac include increased depression and suicidal thoughts or behavior. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of depression worsen. You should also seek medical attention if you have an allergic reaction to Wellbutrin or Prozac. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat. nine0003
*Consult your doctor about interactions with other medicines. Wellbutrin and Prozac WarningsWellbutrin and Prozac have black box warnings on labels for suicidal thoughts and behavior. There may be an increased risk of worsening depression when taking Wellbutrin or Prozac. Seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms do not improve or if you experience suicidal thoughts and behavior. nine0003 There may be an increased risk of seizures with Wellbutrin, especially at higher doses. Wellbutrin use has also been associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, mania, psychosis, and glaucoma in some people. Talk to your doctor if you had a history of these conditions prior to taking Wellbutrin. Like Wellbutrin, Prozac is also associated with a risk of seizures, mania and glaucoma. In addition, the use of Prozac may also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome include confusion, palpitations, and muscle stiffness, among others. Talk to your doctor before starting treatment with Wellbutrin or Prozac. Frequently Asked Questions about Wellbutrin and ProzacWhat is Wellbutrin?Wellbutrin is an aminoketone antidepressant that is FDA approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It is available in immediate release, sustained release, and extended release forms. In addition to treating major depressive disorder, Wellbutrin XL is also approved for the prevention of seasonal affective disorder. Wellbutrin's generic name is bupropion. nine0003 What is Prozac? Prozac is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder. As an SSRI antidepressant, Prozac can also treat depression associated with bipolar disorder. Prozac is also approved for other mental illnesses, including OCD, panic disorder, bulimia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (like Sarafem). Are Wellbutrin and Prozac the same thing?Both Wellbutrin and Prozac are antidepressants, but they work differently. Wellbutrin is an aminoketone that increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Prozac is an SSRI that increases serotonin levels in the brain. A doctor who specializes in psychiatry can prescribe these prescription drugs to treat a variety of mental illnesses, primarily depression. Is Wellbutrin or Prozac better? nine0017 Wellbutrin and Prozac are equally effective in treating depression. The best antidepressant is the one that causes the fewest side effects and is the most economical, depending on the situation. Wellbutrin causes fewer sexual side effects and weight gain than SSRIs such as Prozac. Other SSRIs include Paxil (paroxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), Lexapro (escitalopram), and Celexa (citalopram). Prozac may be more suitable than Wellbutrin for treating depression in a person with bipolar disorder, bulimia, or OCD.    Copyright © · The Wright Initiative · Articles · Site Map 
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Prozac can also cause rashes, flu-like symptoms, and tremors. Changes in weight have also been reported with Prozac. 
Taking Wellbutrin with an MAOI may increase your risk of high blood pressure. The use of Prozac with MAOIs should also be avoided. Combining Prozac with an MAOI may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a condition that may require hospitalization. Wellbutrin or Prozac should also not be taken within 14 days of stopping an MAOI. 
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Low sodium levels (hyponatremia), heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation), and abnormal bleeding have also been observed with Prozac in some people. nine0003 
Prozac is available as oral capsules for daily or weekly use. The generic name for Prozac is fluoxetine. nine0003 
