Key takeaways
Sertraline (Zoloft) and bupropion (Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR) are both medications used to treat depression, but they belong to different medication classes. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that also treats anxiety disorders like panic disorder and social anxiety disorder, while bupropion is an atypical antidepressant used for depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Sertraline is typically taken once daily as a tablet or liquid, whereas bupropion comes in various forms, including immediate-release, sustained-release, and extended-release tablets, with dosing ranging from once to three times daily. Both medications are available in generic forms. Common side effects of both medications include nausea, diarrhea, headaches and trouble sleeping. Both medications can interact with alcohol and other medications that increase serotonin levels. Both medications have a risk of seizures, especially if you have a history of seizures or eating disorders. Additionally, sertraline is sometimes used off-label for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), whereas bupropion is not.
