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Wellbutrin XL vs. Sertraline

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

Bupropion

 

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Sertraline

(Zoloft)

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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)

Summary for Sertraline

Prescription only

Sertraline (Zoloft) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's used to treat different mental health conditions, including depression and certain types of anxiety disorder, such as panic disorder. It's typically taken by mouth once per day. This medication is available as both a tablet and liquid. Common side effects of sertraline (Zoloft) include nausea, diarrhea, and dry mouth. It's best to avoid alcohol while taking sertraline (Zoloft) because this combination can worsen side effects of sertraline (Zoloft).

Indications for Sertraline

Pros and Cons for Sertraline

Pros

Cons

  • Can take up to 2 months before you feel the full benefits
  • More likely to cause diarrhea compared to other SSRIs
  • Might make it more difficult for you to fall asleep
  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
  • The liquid form contains alcohol

Common Side Effects for Sertraline

  • Nausea (26%)
  • Diarrhea (20%)
  • Difficulty sleeping (20%)
  • Dry mouth (14%)
  • Sleepiness (12%)

Warnings for Sertraline

  • Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Risk of bleeding
  • Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
  • Glaucoma
  • Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
  • Low blood sodium levels

Prices with our coupons for Wellbutrin XL vs. Sertraline

Price Card Drug Icon
Bupropion30 tablets / 75mg
$7.50$7.50
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Price Card Drug Icon
Sertraline30 tablets / 50mg
$9.26$33.63
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