Bupropion: What It Is, How It Works, and What Alternatives You Should Know

When you hear Bupropion, a non-SSRI antidepressant that affects dopamine and norepinephrine instead of serotonin. Also known as Wellbutrin, it’s one of the few antidepressants that doesn’t usually cause weight gain or sexual side effects—making it a go-to for people who’ve had bad reactions to other meds. Unlike SSRIs like Zoloft or Prozac, Bupropion doesn’t slam the brakes on serotonin. That’s why it’s often chosen for folks who feel sluggish or emotionally flat on other drugs. It’s also one of the few prescriptions approved by the FDA for helping people quit smoking, under the brand name Zyban.

Bupropion doesn’t just treat depression—it’s used off-label for ADHD, especially in adults who can’t tolerate stimulants like Adderall. It’s also common in people with seasonal affective disorder, because it seems to boost energy and motivation better than other antidepressants. But it’s not for everyone. If you have a seizure disorder, an eating disorder like bulimia, or are on certain other meds, Bupropion can be risky. The dose matters a lot—too high too fast, and you might trigger a seizure. That’s why doctors start low and go slow.

People often compare it to Wellbutrin, the brand-name version of Bupropion, which comes in immediate, sustained, and extended-release forms. The generic version works the same but costs way less. Then there’s varenicline, a smoking cessation drug that targets nicotine receptors directly, unlike Bupropion, which works more broadly on brain chemistry. For depression, some switch to sertraline, an SSRI that’s gentler on energy levels but often causes more sexual side effects. Each has trade-offs. Bupropion keeps you alert; sertraline might make you sleepy. Bupropion helps you quit smoking; varenicline might work better for that alone.

You’ll find posts here that compare Bupropion to other antidepressants, look at real side effects people report, and break down how it stacks up against smoking aids like Chantix. Some explain why it’s used for ADHD when stimulants aren’t an option. Others dive into how it affects sleep, weight, and mood over time. There’s no fluff—just straight talk on what works, what doesn’t, and who it’s really for.