Bupropion XR in 2026: Is It Still Hard to Find?

If you take Bupropion XR for depression or seasonal affective disorder, you may have noticed it's been harder to find at your local pharmacy. You're not imagining it — and you're not alone.

Bupropion Hydrochloride extended-release tablets (sold under brand names like Wellbutrin XL, Forfivo XL, and Aplenzin) have been affected by intermittent supply issues since 2023. In this update, we'll cover the current state of the shortage, what's driving it, how much Bupropion XR costs in 2026, and what you can do to find it.

Is Bupropion XR Still in Shortage?

As of early 2026, Bupropion XR continues to experience supply constraints, though the situation has improved compared to its peak in 2023-2024. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) has listed Bupropion Hydrochloride 24-hour extended-release tablets on its drug shortage list.

The shortage is not uniform across all strengths and manufacturers:

• Bupropion XL 300 mg — the most commonly prescribed strength — has been the most affected
• Bupropion XL 150 mg is generally easier to find
• Availability varies significantly by region and pharmacy
• Some generic manufacturers have restored full production, while others remain on allocation

The FDA continues to work with manufacturers to increase supply and has encouraged patients to report shortages through its drug shortage reporting system.

Why Is Bupropion XR Hard to Find?

The shortage is driven by a combination of factors we've covered in detail in our post Why Is Bupropion XR So Hard to Find?. Here's a quick summary:

• Surging demand: Mental health prescriptions have increased significantly since the pandemic. Bupropion is especially popular because of its favorable side effect profile.
• Manufacturing challenges: Several generic manufacturers have experienced production delays and raw material sourcing issues.
• Limited producers: Only a handful of companies manufacture generic Bupropion XL, so when one has a disruption, the impact ripples across the market.
• Supply chain bottlenecks: Distribution challenges between manufacturers, wholesalers, and pharmacies have compounded the problem.

How Much Does Bupropion XR Cost in 2026?

Bupropion XR pricing varies widely depending on whether you use the brand-name or generic version, your insurance coverage, and which pharmacy you use.

Brand-Name Wellbutrin XL

• Cash price: Approximately $2,700 per month for 30 tablets of 300 mg (without insurance or coupons)
• With manufacturer copay card: Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $0

Generic Bupropion XL

• Retail cash price: Approximately $50-$150 per month for 30 tablets without a coupon
• With GoodRx or SingleCare coupon: As low as $15-$30 per month for 150 mg; $20-$45 per month for 300 mg
• With GoodRx Gold: As low as $5 per fill at select pharmacies

For a complete guide to saving money, see: How to Save Money on Bupropion XR in 2026: Coupons, Discounts, and Patient Assistance.

New Options and Developments

A few developments in 2025-2026 are worth knowing about:

• New generic approvals: The FDA has approved additional generic manufacturers for Bupropion XL, which should help increase supply over time.
• Telehealth access: Bupropion XR is not a controlled substance, which means it can be prescribed through telehealth platforms without an in-person visit. This makes it easier to get a prescription if your usual provider isn't available.
• Aplenzin (Bupropion Hydrobromide): This brand-name extended-release formulation uses a different salt form and may be available when generic Bupropion HCl XL is not. Ask your doctor if it might be an option.

How to Find Bupropion XR in Stock

Here are the most effective strategies for locating Bupropion XR right now:

1. Use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have Bupropion XR available
2. Call independent pharmacies — they often have access to different wholesalers than chain pharmacies
3. Ask your pharmacist to check availability from different generic manufacturers
4. Consider mail-order pharmacies like Amazon Pharmacy, Honeybee Health, or Cost Plus Drugs
5. Request 90-day fills to reduce the frequency of refills and ensure a longer supply

For a complete walkthrough, read our detailed guide: How to Find Bupropion XR in Stock Near You.

What to Do If You Can't Find It at All

If you've exhausted your options and still can't find Bupropion XR, talk to your doctor about:

• Switching to Bupropion SR (same medication, taken twice daily instead of once)
• Trying a different antidepressant — see our guide on Alternatives to Bupropion XR
• Getting samples from your prescriber's office to bridge a gap

Never stop Bupropion XR abruptly without medical guidance. While Bupropion has less withdrawal risk than some other antidepressants, stopping suddenly can worsen depression symptoms.

Final Thoughts

The Bupropion XR shortage has been a real challenge for patients who depend on this medication. While the situation is improving, it's not fully resolved. Stay proactive: use Medfinder to monitor pharmacy stock, explore cost-saving options, and keep an open line of communication with your doctor and pharmacist.

Your mental health treatment shouldn't be disrupted by supply chain issues. With the right tools and information, you can stay on track.