Bupropion: What It Is, How It Works, and What Alternatives Exist

When you hear bupropion, a non-SSRI antidepressant that affects dopamine and norepinephrine instead of serotonin. Also known as Wellbutrin, it stands out because it doesn’t cause the same sexual side effects or weight gain as many other antidepressants. That’s why doctors often turn to it when SSRIs like sertraline or escitalopram don’t work—or when patients want to avoid those common downsides.

Bupropion isn’t just for depression. It’s also one of the few FDA-approved drugs for smoking cessation, a treatment that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by targeting brain reward pathways. Also known as Zyban, the same pill used for depression helps people quit cigarettes without nicotine patches or gum. And while it’s not officially approved for ADHD, a condition often treated with stimulants like Adderall or methylphenidate. Also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, it sometimes gets prescribed off-label when stimulants cause anxiety or insomnia. That’s because it boosts focus without the jitteriness or crash you get from stimulants.

Unlike SSRIs, bupropion doesn’t raise serotonin levels—so it’s less likely to cause emotional blunting or weight gain. But it does carry a seizure risk, especially at high doses or if you have an eating disorder. That’s why doctors check your history before prescribing it. It’s also not a good fit if you’re on other medications that lower your seizure threshold, like antipsychotics or certain antibiotics.

The posts below cover real-world uses and comparisons. You’ll find how bupropion stacks up against clomipramine for OCD, why some people switch from SSRIs to it, and how it fits into broader treatment plans for depression and addiction. You’ll also see how patient perception affects outcomes—something that matters just as much as the science.