Wellbutrin
(Bupropion)
Wellbutrin is a unique antidepressant that works differently from SSRIs — its active ingredient, bupropion, increases dopamine and norepinephrine rather than serotonin. It is popular because it typically does not cause sexual side effects or weight gain and can improve energy and focus.
Most students with insurance pay a $25 average copay. No insurance? Sessions start at $110.
Wellbutrin is often chosen for people who have experienced unwanted sexual side effects or weight gain with SSRIs, or for those whose depression features low energy and poor concentration. Bupropion is also FDA-approved to help people quit smoking under the brand name Zyban.
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Book a free 15-minute consult
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Connect with a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider via video or in person in Texas.
Attend regular sessions
Flexible, personalized care tailored to your life and your semester.
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We connect you with a carefully curated network of psychiatrists vetted for clinical excellence and exceptional patient experience. With a wide range of specialties, backgrounds, and approaches, you’ll find a provider who understands your individual needs and can create a medication management plan tailored to you.
Your insurance questions, answered.
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Wellbutrin (bupropion) works on dopamine and norepinephrine rather than serotonin. This means it tends not to cause the sexual side effects or weight gain common with SSRIs — and it can boost energy and focus.
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It is approved for major depression, seasonal affective disorder, and smoking cessation. It is also commonly used off-label for ADHD.
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Generally no — Wellbutrin is one of the few antidepressants associated with mild weight loss rather than gain in some people.
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Common side effects include dry mouth, headache, insomnia, and increased heart rate. At higher doses, there is a small increased risk of seizures.
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Yes — Wellbutrin is sometimes combined with an SSRI to address residual symptoms or offset sexual side effects. Your psychiatrist will manage the combination carefully.
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Wellbutrin is generally not the first choice for anxiety — it can occasionally increase it. It works better for depression with low energy than for anxiety-driven depression.
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Some people notice improved energy within the first couple of weeks. Full antidepressant effects typically come by week 4–6.
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Book a free consult at Semeter Health. Our psychiatrists will assess whether Wellbutrin is the right fit for your specific symptoms and history.