Bupropion XR is a once-daily, extended-release antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

What Is Bupropion XR?

Bupropion XR (extended-release) is the generic name for medications sold under the brand names Wellbutrin XL, Aplenzin, and Forfivo XL. It belongs to a drug class called norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs), which makes it different from the more commonly known SSRIs (like Zoloft or Prozac) and SNRIs (like Effexor or Cymbalta).

Bupropion was originally developed by GlaxoSmithKline and has been available in various formulations since the 1980s. The extended-release (XL) formulation was designed to be taken once daily, releasing the medication slowly over 24 hours.

Key facts:

• Generic name: Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release
• Brand names: Wellbutrin XL, Aplenzin, Forfivo XL
• Drug class: NDRI (Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor)
• Manufacturer: GlaxoSmithKline (Wellbutrin XL), Bausch Health (Aplenzin)
• Generic available: Yes
• Controlled substance: No — Bupropion XR is not a DEA-scheduled controlled substance

What Is Bupropion XR Used For?

FDA-Approved Uses

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — The primary indication. Bupropion XR is approved for treating depression in adults.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — Bupropion XR is one of the few antidepressants specifically approved for preventing seasonal depression, typically started in autumn before symptoms begin.

Related Uses (Other Formulations)

Bupropion is also available in other formulations for different purposes:

• Smoking cessation — The sustained-release (SR) version is sold as Zyban for help quitting tobacco.
• Weight management — Bupropion is combined with Naltrexone in a product called Contrave for chronic weight management.
• Treatment-resistant depression — Bupropion is combined with Dextromethorphan in Auvelity, a newer medication for MDD.

Common Off-Label Uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe Bupropion XR off-label for:

• ADHD in adults
• Antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction
• Adjunctive treatment in bipolar depression
• Neuropathic pain

How Is Bupropion XR Taken?

Bupropion XR tablets are taken once daily in the morning. Here's what you need to know:

• Starting dose: 150 mg once daily
• Typical maintenance dose: 300 mg once daily (increased after about 4 days if tolerated)
• Maximum dose: 450 mg per day
• Swallow whole — Do not crush, chew, or split extended-release tablets. This can cause the entire dose to release at once, increasing side effect and seizure risk.
• Food: Can be taken with or without food
• Timing: Allow at least 24 hours between doses

Available strengths for the XL formulation include 150 mg and 300 mg tablets. The Aplenzin brand (Bupropion hydrobromide) comes in 174 mg, 348 mg, and 522 mg strengths.

Who Should Not Take Bupropion XR?

Bupropion XR is not right for everyone. It is contraindicated in people with:

• Seizure disorders — Bupropion XR lowers the seizure threshold
• Eating disorders — Current or past diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa
• Abrupt withdrawal from alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or antiepileptic drugs
• MAO inhibitor use — Must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI
• Other Bupropion products — Do not take more than one Bupropion-containing medication at a time
• Allergy to Bupropion or any ingredient in the formulation

Bupropion XR carries an FDA boxed warning about increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18–24). It is not approved for use in pediatric patients for depression.

For a full list of side effects and warnings, see our dedicated guide. For drug interactions, check our interactions article.

How Much Does Bupropion XR Cost?

Cost varies widely depending on whether you're getting brand or generic, and whether you have insurance:

• Generic Bupropion XL 150 mg: ~$15–30/month with a coupon
• Generic Bupropion XL 300 mg: ~$20–45/month with a coupon
• Retail cash price (generic): $50–150/month without a coupon
• Brand Wellbutrin XL 300 mg: ~$2,700/month without insurance

Most Medicare and commercial insurance plans cover generic Bupropion XL as a preferred generic, usually without prior authorization. Brand-name versions may require step therapy through generic first.

To save money, check out our complete guide to Bupropion XR coupons, discounts, and patient assistance programs. Manufacturer savings programs from Wellbutrin XL and Aplenzin may reduce copays to as low as $0 for commercially insured patients.

Final Thoughts

Bupropion XR is a widely prescribed, well-studied antidepressant with a unique mechanism of action. It stands out for its lower risk of weight gain and sexual side effects compared to SSRIs. Whether you're newly prescribed or considering it with your doctor, understanding the basics helps you make informed decisions about your treatment.

If you're ready to fill your prescription, use Medfinder to find a pharmacy with Bupropion XR in stock near you.