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Abilify vs. Wellbutrin XL

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Aripiprazole (Abilify) and bupropion (Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR) are both medications used to treat mental health conditions, but they belong to different medication classes. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and as an add-on for depression, while bupropion is an atypical antidepressant used for depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Aripiprazole is available in various forms, including oral tablets, solutions, and orally disintegrating tablets, whereas bupropion is available in immediate-release, sustained-release, and extended-release tablets. Aripiprazole can be used in children as young as 6 for certain conditions, while bupropion is typically used in adults. Common side effects of aripiprazole include headache, agitation, and trouble sleeping, while bupropion may cause dry mouth, nausea, and trouble sleeping. Aripiprazole can interact with many medications, while bupropion increases the risk of seizures, especially if you have a history of seizures or eating disorders. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic.

Aripiprazole

(Abilify)

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Bupropion

 

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Summary for Abilify

Prescription only

Aripiprazole (Abilify) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat different mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. It works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain to help control thoughts, mood, and behaviors. It's available in many dosage forms, including an oral tablet, solution, and an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) that can be used in adults and children as young as 6 years old for certain conditions. Common side effects include headache, movement problems, and sleep problems.

Indications for Abilify

Pros and Cons for Abilify

Pros

Cons

  • Can make you feel restless
  • Risk of movement problems that can be permanent
  • Can raise blood sugar and cholesterol
  • Can take several weeks to see the full effects

Common Side Effects for Abilify

  • Headache (27%)
  • Agitation (19%)
  • Trouble sleeping (18%)
  • Anxiety (17%)
  • Nausea (15%)
  • Vomiting (11%)
  • Constipation (11%)
  • Dizziness (10%)
  • Trouble staying still (10%)

Note: Side effects were reported by adults who took aripiprazole in clinical studies for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Warnings for Abilify

  • Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
  • High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and weight gain
  • Difficulty controlling movements
  • Changes in blood pressure and higher risk of falls
  • Risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)
  • Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
  • Seizures
  • Impulse-control problems

Summary for Wellbutrin XL

Prescription only

Bupropion is taken by mouth to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It's available as short-acting tablets that are taken two or three times a day, as well as long-acting versions that are taken once daily. Bupropion has fewer sexual side effects compared to other antidepressants, but it's not a good choice for people with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or drink alcohol regularly.

Indications for Wellbutrin XL

  • Depression
  • Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - only bupropion HCl extended-release (Wellbutrin XL)

Pros and Cons for Wellbutrin XL

Pros

  • Works well for depression and can be used alone or in combination with other antidepressants
  • Causes fewer sexual side effects than some other antidepressants
  • Available in a lower-cost generic form
  • Less likely to cause weight gain compared to other antidepressants
  • Good option for people who haven't had success with traditional antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Cons

Common Side Effects for Wellbutrin XL

  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Dizziness
  • Sore throat
  • Constipation
  • Restlessness (agitation)

Warnings for Wellbutrin XL

  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior and abnormal mood changes
  • Mental health changes
  • Seizures
  • High blood pressure
  • Extreme enthusiasm or excitement (mania)

Prices with our coupons for Abilify vs. Wellbutrin XL

Price Card Drug Icon
Aripiprazole30 tablets / 5mg
$16.43$462.47
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Price Card Drug Icon
Bupropion30 tablets / 75mg
$7.50$7.50
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