Key takeaways
Atomoxetine (Strattera) and bupropion (Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR) are both medications that can affect norepinephrine levels in the brain, but they are used for different primary conditions. Atomoxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in people 6 years and older. Bupropion, on the other hand, is an atypical antidepressant used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Atomoxetine is taken once or twice a day, while bupropion can be taken in different forms, including immediate-release, sustained-release, and extended-release, with varying dosing schedules. Both medications are available as a generic and are not controlled substances. Common side effects of atomoxetine include nausea, dry mouth, and sleepiness, while bupropion can cause headache, dry mouth, and trouble sleeping. Both medications carry a risk of suicidal thoughts, but bupropion also has a risk of seizures, especially if you have a history of seizures or eating disorders. Both medications interact with certain antidepressants and should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
