Zyban vs. Wellbutrin XL for Smoking Cessation and Depression: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Bupropion (Zyban) and bupropion hydrochloride (Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR) are both medications that contain the same active ingredient, but they are used for different purposes. Zyban is specifically prescribed to help you quit smoking, while Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR are used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Both medications work by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce withdrawal symptoms. Zyban is typically taken twice daily for 7 to 12 weeks, whereas Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR can be taken once daily or multiple times a day depending on the formulation. Zyban is not recommended for people who drink alcohol regularly due to the risk of seizures, while Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR are not ideal for those with a history of seizures or eating disorders. Both medications can cause mood changes and suicidal thoughts, so it's important to monitor for these side effects. Additionally, both medications are available as lower-cost generics.

Bupropion

(Zyban)

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Bupropion

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Summary for Zyban

Prescription only

Bupropion extended-release (SR), brand name Zyban, is an atypical antidepressant. It's taken by adults for smoking cessation (quitting smoking) only. It works by easing symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and lowering your cravings for nicotine. Bupropion (Zyban) isn't interchangeable with other forms of bupropion that are prescribed for mental health conditions. It comes as 150-mg tablets that are taken by mouth, typically twice per day. Side effects include trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and dizziness. This medication is only available as a generic; brand name Zyban has been discontinued.

Indications for Zyban

Smoking cessation (quitting smoking) in adults

Pros and Cons for Zyban

Pros

Taken by mouth
Can take with or without food
Can be combined with nicotine patch (Nicoderm CQ) for better results

Cons

Taken twice per day
Drinking alcohol at the same time can raise the risk of seizures and mood changes
Commonly causes trouble sleeping

Common Side Effects for Zyban

Trouble sleeping (40%)
Runny nose (12%)
Dry mouth (11%)
Dizziness (10%)
Nausea (9%)
Trouble concentrating (9%)
Anxiety (8%)
Constipation (8%)
Joint pain (5%)
Strange dreams (5%)

Warnings for Zyban

Suicidal thoughts or behavior and mood changes
Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
Seizures
High blood pressure
Glaucoma
Severe allergic reaction and skin reaction

Summary for Wellbutrin XL

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 for Wellbutrin XL

Depression
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) - only bupropion HCl extended-release (Wellbutrin XL)

Pros and Cons for Wellbutrin XL

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