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Compare Modafinil vs. Wellbutrin XL

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

  • Modafinil (Provigil)
    Bupropion
  • Modafinil (Provigil)
    Bupropion

  • Summary of Modafinil vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Summary for Wakefulness-promoting agent
    Prescription only

    Modafinil (Provigil) is a prescription medication used to improve wakefulness in people who have extreme sleepiness due to narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, or shift work disorder. It's considered a controlled substance since this medication has a potential to cause misuse. You should avoid alcohol while taking modafinil (Provigil), as well as certain other medications to avoid any serious interactions and side effects. Common side effects of modafinil (Provigil), however, include headache and nausea.

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    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 of Modafinil vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Indications for
    •Excessive sleepiness due to narcolepsy, shift work disorder, or obstructive sleep apnea
    Indications for
    •Depression
    •Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - only bupropion HCl extended-release (Wellbutrin XL)

  • Pros and Cons of Modafinil vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Pros and Const for Wakefulness-promoting agent
    Pros
    •Convenient once-daily dosing
    •Can help you feel awake without feeling overstimulated
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Doesn't usually interfere with falling asleep when taken as recommended
    •Can help with attention as well as fatigue
    Cons
    •Interacts with many medications, including hormonal birth controls, warfarin (Coumadin), and omeprazole (Prilosec)
    •Older adults and people with severe liver problems might need a lower dose
    •Not known whether it's safe or works well for children
    •Generally not recommended if you're pregnant or breastfeeding
    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    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
    •Can take several weeks to feel the full effects
    •Not the best option if you have a history of seizures or eating disorders like as anorexia or bulimia
    •Might need to limit or avoid using alcohol during treatment
    •Can cause trouble sleeping if you take it later in the day

  • Common Side Effects of Modafinil vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (34%)
    •Nausea (11%)
    •Feeling nervous (7%)
    •Runny nose (7%)
    •Back Pain (6%)
    •Diarrhea (6%)
    •Anxiety (5%)
    •Dizziness (5%)
    •Upset stomach and indigestion (5%)
    •Trouble sleeping (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Dizziness
    •Sore throat
    •Constipation
    •Restlessness (agitation)

  • Warnings of Modafinil vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious allergic reactions
    •Serious skin reactions
    •Driving impairment
    •Heart problems
    •Mental health disorder symptoms
    Common Side Effects for
    •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 Modafinil vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Learn more about Modafinil
    Learn more about Bupropion

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