Key takeaways
Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and fluoxetine (Prozac) are both used to treat depression, but they belong to different medication classes. Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that works by boosting norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain, while fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases serotonin levels. Bupropion is also used for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and is less likely to cause weight gain and sexual side effects compared to fluoxetine. However, bupropion is not suitable for people with a history of seizures or eating disorders. Fluoxetine, on the other hand, is also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia, panic disorder, and depression from bipolar 1 disorder. It can take up to 2 months to feel the full effects of fluoxetine, and it can cause side effects like difficulty sleeping and nausea. Both medications can raise the risk of suicidal thoughts in people under 24 years old and should not be stopped suddenly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
