Wellbutrin vs. Prozac: Differences, Similarities, & Which Is Best for You

What Is Wellbutrin?

Wellbutrin is an FDA-approved medication for major depressive disorders and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It works by decreasing the reuptake of these two neurotransmitters, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These chemicals are responsible for positively influencing the brain’s center for pleasure. The medication is usually not a first-line treatment for depression.^1,2

Wellbutrin Uses

Wellbutrin is a brand name for the medication bupropion. It comes in two extended-release forms, Wellbutrin XL and SR. The FDA has approved Wellbutrin’s use for the disorders below. This means the agency has approved its usage as its benefits outweigh the risks in its intended use.

Wellbutrin is FDA-approved as a treatment for the following disorders: ^1,2

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)*

*Only Wellbutrin XL is approved for this indication.

What Is Prozac?

Prozac is an FDA-approved treatment for depression, obsessive-compulsive behavior (OCD), panic attacks, and bulimia nervosa. It increases the levels of serotonin in the body which helps in mood regulation, energy, and focus. The medication can be used in adults and children ages eight and older. It may be a good option for a person using an antidepressant for the first time.

Prozac Uses

An FDA-approved medication is approved as a treatment for one or more specific conditions. Prozac is FDA-approved for several mental health conditions and is given in different forms, including an oral tablet, delayed-release capsule, liquid or solution, or capsule.

 Prozac is FDA-approved as a treatment for the following disorders³:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Bulimia nervosa
• Panic disorder (PD)

How Are Wellbutrin & Prozac Similar?

Wellbutrin and Prozac are drugs that have been effective in treating depression. They both target neurotransmitters by increasing the level in the brain, which improves moods and energy. These medications are only available through prescriptions given by a qualified healthcare provider.

Off-label use is when the medication is used for disorders and their use has not been approved by the FDA. However, a medical provider may prescribe it to patients if, based on their professional judgment, the medication may benefit the patient. They are both taken orally as depression medication and are popular antidepressants with similar side effects. Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL both come as tablets while Prozac is only available as a capsule. Generic Prozac, known as fluoxetine, is also available as an oral solution and a tablet.

Key Differences Between Wellbutrin & Prozac

Although these two drugs are antidepressants known to treat depression, they are quite different and cannot be used interchangeably. The differences vary from the condition they treat to the side effects they have on individuals taking the medication.

The key differences between Wellbutrin and Prozac include:

Conditions Treated

Both Prozac and Wellbutrin can be used to treat major depression. Prozac also treats panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bulimia nervosa. Other than depression, the only other condition Wellbutrin is FDA-approved to treat is seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in adults. Wellbutrin XL is used to treat SAD.

Off-label* (non-FDA-approved) uses for Wellbutrin may include:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Depressive episodes of bipolar disorder
• Smoking cessation

Off-label* (non-FDA-approved) uses for Prozac may include:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Body dysmorphia
• Premature ejaculation
• Sleep disorders
• Social phobia or social anxiety disorder
• Phobias

*Off-label use is when the medication is used for disorders and their use has not been approved by the FDA. However, a medical provider may prescribe it to patients if, based on their professional judgment, the medication may benefit the patient.

Standard Dosages & Forms

When you compare Prozac and Wellbutrin, their forms and dosage differ. Wellbutrin is given in two forms including extended and sustained-release tablets. The Wellbutrin XL extended-release is available in dosages of 150 mg and 300 mg, while the SR is available in 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg. Prozac is only available as a capsule. The medication is taken orally, and is available in dosages of 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg.⁴

Side Effects

Side effects may occur when taking any medication. Some common side effects while taking Prozac include nausea, headache, sleeping problems, nervousness or anxiety, and loss of appetite. Common side effects of Wellbutrin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, tremor, and anxiety symptoms.

The table below summarizes the key differences between Wellbutrin vs Prozac:

What Are Wellbutrin & Prozac Used to Treat?

Wellbutrin and Prozac both have FDA- approved uses and non-FDA-approved uses. FDA-approved means that the agency has evaluated the pros and cons of medication for the specific disorders listed and has confirmed that the benefits exceed the cons.

The table below compares the medical and mental health conditions Wellbutrin and Prozac are used to treat:

Side Effects of Wellbutrin & Prozac

Wellbutrin and Prozac cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting. The side effects are mild in most cases although some may require medical attention to prevent complications.

The table below compares a few of the most common side effects of Wellbutrin and Prozac:

Severe Side Effects & Allergic Reactions for Wellbutrin & Prozac

Although not very common, there is a chance of experiencing severe side effects or allergic reactions when taking Wellbutrin and Prozac. Contact your healthcare provider in case you start experiencing severe side effects and they will advise you on what to do.

Severe side effects that may occur from taking Wellbutrin include:⁵

• Elevated blood pressure
• Blurry vision
• Heart palpitations
• Seizures
• Suicidal ideation

Severe side effects that may occur from taking Prozac include:

• Serotonin syndrome, characterized by shaking, vomiting, and hallucinations
• Seizures
• Abnormal bleeding
• Manic episodes
• Allergic reactions characterized by swelling and rashes
• Suicidal ideation

Warnings & Precautions for Wellbutrin & Prozac

Before taking any antidepressants, including Prozac and Wellbutrin, it is important to inform your doctor of any health conditions. Sharing your medical history can help your doctor to understand how to reduce interactions due to allergies, pregnancies, and other prescriptions.

Risks to consider when taking Wellbutrin and Prozac include:

• Interactions with alcohol: The risk of consuming alcohol with antidepressants is reducing the efficiency of the medication and worsening depression symptoms.
• Use while pregnant or breastfeeding: Some drugs are safe to take while either pregnant or breastfeeding. Medications such as Wellbutrin or Prozac can be used for depression during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Antidepressant withdrawal: This involves stopping the medication suddenly which may cause antidepressant withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms include dizziness, headaches, nausea, and anxiety which may lead to discontinuation syndrome.
• Serotonin syndrome: This is when the level of serotonin in the blood is higher than usual due to drug intake.This is a dangerous and sometimes fatal syndrome.

Potential Drug Interactions With Wellbutrin & Prozac

Before the doctor shares the prescription, you should talk to them about the potential interactions between the medication and other drugs. Therefore, please inform your doctor each time before receiving a new prescription for a different medication or any you plan to take. Other medications can affect the working of the drugs increasing side effects risks.

Disclaimer: Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Wellbutrin and Prozac can change how these medications work in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please inform your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Examples of medications and substances that may have harmful interactions with Wellbutrin and Prozac include:

Wellbutrin Vs. Prozac: Insurance Coverage and Cost Effectiveness

Medication cost is an important factor, especially if you are to take the medication for several weeks. It is available in its generic form and covered by many health insurance plans, as is Prozac. The cost of each medication can vary depending on your prescription and your insurance plan.

Wellbutrin Vs. Prozac: Key Pros & Cons

All the medications prescribed have their pros and cons. Therefore, a healthcare provider will decide based on the medication that provides more value to the patient. The advantage of both medications is that they are covered by insurance and Medicare.

Pros & Cons of Wellbutrin

The medication is effective in treating depression, less likely to cause weight gain, and may be available at a lower cost using the generic form. It is also a good option for people without success with SSRIs and with fewer sexual side effects. The cons are that the medication can cause sleeping problems, takes several weeks to take full effect, and can interact with some medications.

Pros & Cons of Prozac

Prozac is used to treat depression and other disorders. The medication is less likely to make you sleepy than other antidepressants. The dosages are taken orally and can be taken with or without food. Some of the cons include increased suicidal thoughts, can interact with other medication, and can take up to 2 months for you to get the full effect of the medication. ⁶

Which Is Right for You: Wellbutrin & Prozac?

A qualified healthcare provider is the best person to share a prescription with you or help you determine which medication is best for you. Consider online psychiatry services if seeing a doctor in person is a challenge due to your busy schedule. The service quality matches those in-person visits as a licensed provider will help you consider the benefits and risks of each medication.

How to Get a Prescription for Wellbutrin & Prozac

For some, understanding how to get antidepressants is a key step for addressing depression symptoms. A doctor or other healthcare provider with the authority to prescribe medication can evaluate you for the most appropriate treatment, which may include medication. During your visit, you and your doctor will discuss your health history, the impact of your mental health symptoms, and your interest in taking medication. This discussion can help them determine if medication may be a helpful treatment for you.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Wellbutrin & Prozac

Having open conversations with your doctor and having questions ready can help you understand how medication may affect you as a treatment.

Questions to ask your prescriber about Wellbutrin and Prozac include:

• Is it safe to take Wellbutrin or Prozac with my other medications?
• Will Wellbutrin or Prozac be covered by my insurance?
• Which one has the best results as a treatment for depression?
• Does my medical history increase my risk of side effects for either?
• How long can I expect side effects to last?
• Which one is the best for my treatment of anxiety?
• How often should I see you for checkups while taking Wellbutrin or Prozac?
• What should I do if I am unsure if antidepressants are right for me?
• Wellbutrin vs Prozac anxiety side effects, which ones are worse?
• Can I combine Prozac vs Wellbutrin for weight loss?
• Should I trust Wellbutrin vs Prozac reviews?
• Which is better Prozac or Wellbutrin for mood regulation?
• Do these medications cause a placebo effect in the brain?
• Are there some alternatives to Wellbutrin?

In My Experience

In my experience, both of these medications are effective for FDA-approved uses. Therefore, a healthcare provider will assess your condition before prescribing medication to ensure you get what works best. Remember to only start or change a medication with your healthcare provider’s approval.

For Further Reading

• Lexapro Vs. Prozac: Choosing Which Is Right for You
• Prozac Vs. Zoloft: Choosing the Best for You
• Wellbutrin (Bupropion) Withdrawal: Symptoms, Duration, & How to Cope
• Medication for Depression: Types, Side Effects, and Management
• Does Prozac Cause Weight Loss? Everything You Need to Know