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Compare Trazodone vs. Wellbutrin XL

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

Key takeaways

Trazodone (Desyrel) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) are both atypical antidepressants used to treat depression. Trazodone is sometimes used off-label for insomnia, while bupropion is also approved for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI), while bupropion works by boosting norepinephrine and dopamine levels. Trazodone is typically taken in divided doses throughout the day, whereas bupropion is available in immediate-release, sustained-release, and extended-release forms, and is usually taken 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the dosage form. Both medications are available as generics, but trazodone is not a first-choice option for depression. Common side effects of trazodone include sleepiness and dizziness, while bupropion may cause headache, dry mouth, or nausea. Trazodone can interact with other medications affecting serotonin levels, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome, while bupropion can increase the risk of seizures, especially in those with a history of seizures or eating disorders.

  • Trazodone
    Bupropion
  • Trazodone
    Bupropion

  • Summary of Trazodone vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it isn't a first-choice option. In addition, trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label for difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This medication is taken by mouth, typically once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Brand name Desyrel has been discontinued.

    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 Trazodone vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)
    Indications for
    •Depression
    •Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - only bupropion HCl extended-release (Wellbutrin XL)

  • Pros and Cons of Trazodone vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Fewer sexual side effects than some other antidepressants
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Starts to work within a week for treating depression
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice medication for depression
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
    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 Trazodone vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (up to 41%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 34%)
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness (up to 28%)
    •Headache (up to 20%)
    •Blurred vision (up to 15%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (up to 13%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Dizziness
    •Sore throat
    •Constipation
    •Restlessness (agitation)

  • Warnings of Trazodone vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Dizziness from lower blood pressure
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Glaucoma
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Withdrawal
    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 Trazodone vs. Wellbutrin XL

    Learn more about Trazodone
    Learn more about Bupropion

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