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Compare Wellbutrin XL vs. Xanax

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

Key takeaways

Bupropion (Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR) and alprazolam (Xanax) are both prescription medications used for mental health conditions, but they have important differences. Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), while alprazolam is a benzodiazepine used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. Bupropion is available in various forms, including immediate-release, sustained-release, and extended-release tablets, and is not a controlled substance. In contrast, alprazolam is a V controlled medication, typically taken three times a day, and is meant for short-term use due to the risk of dependence. Bupropion can cause side effects like headaches and trouble sleeping, and it has a risk of seizures, especially if you have a history of seizures or eating disorders. Alprazolam can cause drowsiness and memory problems and should not be mixed with alcohol or opioids due to the risk of severe sedation and breathing problems. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic.

  • Bupropion
    Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • Bupropion
    Alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Summary of Wellbutrin XL vs. Xanax

    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.

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. It's approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks in adults. It's taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day or as directed by your healthcare team. To avoid the risk of dependence, alprazolam (Xanax) is meant for short-term treatment only. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include drowsiness and memory problems. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam (Xanax) because this can lead to serious interactions.

  • Indications of Wellbutrin XL vs. Xanax

    Indications for
    •Depression
    •Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - only bupropion HCl extended-release (Wellbutrin XL)
    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder

  • Pros and Cons of Wellbutrin XL vs. Xanax

    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
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can start to work in 30 minutes
    •Available as quick-dissolving tablets or liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •Can cause memory problems, drowsiness, and confusion
    •Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms
    •Not preferred during pregnancy

  • Common Side Effects of Wellbutrin XL vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Dizziness
    •Sore throat
    •Constipation
    •Restlessness (agitation)
    Common Side Effects for

    Generalized anxiety disorder:

    •Drowsiness (41%)
    •Lightheadedness (21%)
    •Dry mouth (15%)

    Panic disorder:

    •Drowsiness (77%)
    •Fatigue (49%)
    •Poor coordination (40%)
    •Memory issues (33%)
    •Irritability (33%)
    •Appetite changes (28-33%)
    •Thinking problems (29%)
    •Constipation (26%)

    Side effects listed are for the immediate-release forms. Side effects for extended-release form might differ.

  • Warnings of Wellbutrin XL vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Suicidal thoughts or behavior and abnormal mood changes
    •Mental health changes
    •Seizures
    •High blood pressure
    •Extreme enthusiasm or excitement (mania)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Potential for misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies
    •Interactions with other medications
    •Use with caution in people with depression

  • Prices with our coupons for Wellbutrin XL vs. Xanax

    Learn more about Bupropion
    Learn more about Alprazolam

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