What is difference between Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, and XL?

9 Aug 2009

Wellbutrin - immediate release pills taken three times daily for the treatment of major depressive disorder.

Wellbutrin SR - sustained-release pills taken twice daily for the treatment of major depressive disorder.

Wellbutrin XL - extended-release pills taken once daily for the treatment of major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder.

All Wellbutrin formulations contain the same active ingredient, bupropion.

Sorry I couldn't find any information comparing the side effect profiles for each of the types of Wellbutrin. In general the longer acting medicines have fewer side effects because the blood levels of the drug remain steadier.

see http://www.drugs.com/wellbutrin.html

17 Feb 2010

You should also note that there can be come confusion between the SR and XL generics, so be certain to double check with your pharmacist that you have the right one (once a day or twice a day) when you fill it for the first time or change generics.

10 May 2011

I started with wellbutrin100 mg., It did not make a diffrence, than the doctor increased the dosage gradually untill finally the medication that worked for me was the Wellbutrin XL. it has had no side effects, and I am content to use this drug, for the time being.

25 Mar 2012

Both products contain the same active ingredient bupropion. Wellbutrin SR (Sustained Released) is formulated to release slowly from the tablet and is taken twice daily. Wellbutrin XL (Extended Release) has a slower release over 24 hours and is taken once daily.