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Bupropion for Major Depressive Disorder User Reviews (Page 3)

Brand names: Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR, Aplenzin, Budeprion Forfivo XL Budeprion SR

Bupropion has an average rating of 6.9 out of 10 from a total of 400 reviews for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. 60% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 23% reported a negative experience.

Reviews for Bupropion

  • orang...
  • May 8, 2015

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I've had severe depression and increasing anxiety since I was 18 (23 soon going on 24 now!) but was only officially diagnosed last summer, a few months after I graduated college. I started taking Wellbutrin SR in September 2014, and eventually went up to 300 mg x day. At first it just gave me headaches, worsened my chronic insomnia, and gave me an immediate burst of way too much energy. Now I no longer experience any of these effects. One of my biggest issues before was total lack of motivation, but Wellbutrin has fixed this almost entirely. I'm actually able to leave the house now and I finally have a job that I enjoy going to and am actually able to focus on. I really wish I had started taking this sooner, but I'm glad I'm on it now."

10 / 10
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106 Report
  • Alway...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • November 25, 2023

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "My experience with Wellbutrin is very positive! I was suffering from major depression (horrible mood, pessimistic, could not enjoy anything, really bad thoughts) with panic/stress disorder. I was in a dark place for many months. I tried multiple SSRIs, gave them time but none worked. Then, my doctor suggested 150mg of Wellbutrin daily. After 1 month, I was feeling a bit better but still in a depressive mood. Then, I went to 300mg. After 2 months, I saw a big difference. I could enjoy things, be present, focus on things I love, think a bit more clearly, become more optimistic about the future. I wake up happy to be alive most days. Of course, there are still some bad moments where things get dark, but it's quite easy to get through them and not let them affect my entire mood long term. Side effects: Buzzing in ears (went away), increased libido (can be a good thing), restlessness (went away), irregular heartbeats, and sweating. Give this drug a try together with therapy!"

9 / 10
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  • cntry...
  • Taken for 5 to 10 years
  • December 21, 2014

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "I was diagnosed with major depression several years back. I've been on almost everything out there. I would try the medicine and hate the side effects or how it made me feel and taper myself off. Wellbutrin came on the market and I asked to be put on it. I take 300mg everyday and up until recently it was working great. As I age other emotional problems occurred (anxiety disorder) that Wellbutrin was not helping with, and Effexor was added. Wellbutrin is the ONLY psychotropic medicine I've not had any side effects with and have stayed on as long as I have. It also helped me quit smoking after being a 25 yr /1pk a day smoker."

9 / 10
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108 Report

Frequently asked questions

  • AHano
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • September 4, 2019

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "After previously being on the common prescribed SSRI, Prozac, the enormously unhealthy weight gain and a regression in progress prompted a change in medication. My professional thought we’d give Wellbutrin a try. It’s only been two months and I’ve quickly bounced back to the best I’ve felt in over a year (compared to months later on Prozac, but could be attributed to better knowledge and expectations). But the weight loss has absolutely dramatic. I’ve lost at least 40 pounds that I’d steadily gained over the last year in no more than two months."

10 / 10
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63 Report
  • Shade
  • August 21, 2019

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "I started taking Wellbutrin XR 150MG after having major depression and tried several other medicines over 3 years. Other medicines worked well but partially & with side effects incl. sexual ones. Before Wellbutrin, I had no interest in doing LOTS basic things I used to do. After I started Wellbutrin 150mg, positive signs started just after few days after, peak was after 4-5 weeks. Wellbutrin gives energy and motivation to do things. The only drawback is that this energy sometimes continues even after midnight. So sometimes I could stay awake till morning without feeling tired or mentally exhausted when I go office which yielded to some mild anxiety. To overcome this issue, my doctor gave me another medicine to help with it. And now all is PERFECT. Note: you may not face the same side effects I had. Finally, I have no sexual side effects with Wellbutrin unlike with my old medicines."

9 / 10
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Are you taking this medicine?

  • abby
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • December 14, 2021

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I appreciate this space & every person's experience. I've been 10 days into this medicine and I'm sleeping better, depression is horrible, the crying , fear of death , losing my family, friend's, pets . I want to be happy. I read how many found happy I want to know that feeling. I pray that my outcome is like many of your stories. Thank You all for the encouragement in your personal stories you've graciously shared. Abby"

5 / 10
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37 Report
  • Horro...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • April 11, 2017

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "MY person experience may differ for others, but BEST combo for me so far, has included Wellbutin XL 300mg. Many years receiving mental health services (27 years). Had to stop SSRI's. Wellbutrin however helped increase my motivation, had none. Was so bad I laid in bed months from severe depression, so long immobile that both legs filled with blood clots and near death!! Survived on blood thinners and hospital over a week. With Wellbutrin had no weight gain, lost the 50lb other meds helped put on me! Lower cholest., quit smoking as a nice bonus and no sexual issues, in fact helped imho."

8 / 10
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81 Report
  • TDS
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • November 12, 2019

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I had been on Prozac for a year to battle some severe depression and crying daily. It worked well for the first couple of months, but then I noticed it made me feel just "blah" and negative. I couldn't get emotional either way... angry or sad. I also didn't want to do anything and gained 25 pounds, plus horrible sexual side effects. I got sick of it finally and asked my doctor for something different. He started introduce 150mg of Wellbutrin for 2 weeks while I reduced the Prozac. The Wellbutrin started working after about a week. My mood was a lot better and had more emotions. I also feel more motivated to eat right, workout, and improve my appearance. I'm now on one 10mg Prozac in the morning and 2 separate doses of Wellbutrin (300mg total). In about a week, I'll drop Prozac and see how it goes. I've only had a slight headache sometimes and a little trouble sleeping, but overall, no side effects with Wellbutrin. Very happy so far."

9 / 10
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57 Report
  • jay
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • July 3, 2014

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I have battled with Bipolar, depression for many years. And all my problems peaked now that I'm back from Afghanistan. Been on many different medicines through the years. I started taking Wellbutrin approximately 3 weeks ago. And it is now starting to take effect. The only reason it didn't get a higher score from me is because the medication just started to kick in and its not at its full effect. I work as a paramedic and have also dealt with many people with everything from bipolar to schizophrenia. Anyone that's been in this situation know that there is initial effects but the people who say it is working after a day or two are experiencing a placebo effect. These medicines affect chemicals in your brain. Therefore take time to take full effect. "

8 / 10
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103 Report
  • Lorenzo
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 15, 2023

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "I'm a 52 year old male that has suffered with long term depression for a the majority of my young and adult life. I came to terms with the fact that I must medicate in order to have a fighting chance. I called my doctor a few days ago and she recommended Wellbutrin based on my constant suicidal thoughts and battle with anxiety and depression. I was excited at the thought of "turning the page," of my life. I must say that I was absolutely surprised at how well and how fast Wellbutrin worked. I just can't express what a difference it's made in my personal life. Now I have a good chance of mending fences with family that I once ignored purposely due to my severe battle with depression. Only time will tell just how good Wellbutrin works - it's a beautiful start though! Wishing you all peace in your journey."

10 / 10
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  • tiredgi
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • April 20, 2020

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "Like most people with depression I have tried a lot of meds. But after a great deal of research I have found a great combination for myself. I refuse to take SSRI's due to zaps and sexual side effects. But when I combined Wellbutrin XL 150 mg with Sam-E 400 mg every morning, good things have happened. Depression is better and my fibromyalgia has subsided a great deal. Try it. You might like it. Just be cautioned, you may need something to help you sleep. But these two make you much more active."

8 / 10
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  • Vett
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • June 9, 2014

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "Was very depressed and hadn't slept in 4 days. Was diagnosed with manic depression and insomnia. Was put on Wellbutrin XL and trazodone for sleep. They both have been a miracle for me. No side effects from either except for dry mouth."

10 / 10
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101 Report
  • Miche...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 24, 2015

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "I had a rough time starting young with major depression and anxiety since middle school. My freshman year I started taking Lexapro. It was the worst possible thing that could've happened to me. Worst side effects ever. I gained over 40 pounds. I was tiny and petite to being around 125 to 170. Tried switching from many multiple different meds, still gained weight. Then my doctor finally put me on Wellbutrin, started off with the low dose and didn't really help much. She upped me to 150. I had hyperglycemia and finally got over it and got off of metformin. I am starting to finally lose some of that weight and about to look great for senior year. I highly recommend this medicine. It makes me not hungry anymore. I'm so happy now!"

9 / 10
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93 Report
  • Kikit
  • Taken for 10 years or more
  • November 8, 2020

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "I've lived through alot of trauma, I have been on Wellbutrin XL for 10 years and recently stopped for 10 months. Today is my 6th day back on it and I am feeling less anxious about my circumstances in life right now. It has helped me daily get out of bed, control outburst, and overall keep moving forward. I would say I am lucky to have this medication."

9 / 10
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44 Report
  • ctrou...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 4, 2020

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "After 1 week of taking Wellbutrin I developed severe intrusive tinnitus. I have been off the drug for almost a year and it has not faded at all. While obviously this side effect doesn't happen to everyone who takes Wellbutrin, it is frighteningly common. All of the doctors I've seen since then (psychs, ENTs, etc.) weren't surprised at all when I told them my tinnitus was from Wellbutrin. It has absolutely destroyed what was left of my life. I already had depression, anxiety, and insomnia, now all of these are 100x worse plus suicidal thoughts. Again, I don't want to say "don't take this drug" because all drugs have side effects and I was one of the unlucky ones. But I would highly suggest something else as I would not wish this on my worst enemy."

1 / 10
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  • Anne
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • April 15, 2020

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I started Wellbutrin after taking Zoloft for about 6 months but had to stop because I gained 30 lbs in 3 months and was retaining water like crazy. Wellbutrin definitely stopped the water retention and I’ve lost about 6 pounds since starting it about a month ago. Unfortunately I have to stop taking this one too. I was hoping this would be the one— I’ve been back and forth on a lot of meds but nothing has worked. I felt severely angry and would lash out. I’ve never been that way. I am convinced this medication has caused me to have anger problems when I never had them before. Coming off the medication hasn’t been great, super emotional, tired, lots of headaches and irritability but after day 12 I’m finally feeling better."

3 / 10
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48 Report
  • Lori
  • November 5, 2015

Wellbutrin SR (bupropion) "I was taking 300mg every day the generic for years along with zanex for anxiety. My dr upped the dosage to 450mg every day. I just got the name brand and it's completely different!!!! My life has new meaning the generic is not half as good. I no longer need the zanex and have no problems going out or living my life now. This medication ( name brand Welbutrin) should be available to anyone that needs it. The generic is horrible loaded with side effects shaking, headache, nausea, and extream bouts of anxiety that do not occur with the name brand!!! I am shocked the generic for this medication is permitted to mascrade as the equivalent is not even close!!!"

10 / 10
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83 Report
  • eyede...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • July 11, 2016

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "Wellbutrin XL has been great for me. I have been on it for a few months and have completely noticed the difference in my lifestyle and my libido. My doctor was giving me samples of the brand name but she ran out and my insurance wouldn't cover the brand. My Copay for the brand was $1300.00 I could NOT afford that so she reluctantly put me on the generic. It was HORRIBLE. Worst experience of my life. Worst side effects ever. Luckily I came across another Pharmacy and they fill your Wellbutrin brand name for $50 a month. It's been great! Back on Wellbutrin and feeling amazing!!"

9 / 10
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77 Report
  • Linds
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • June 9, 2019

Wellbutrin SR (bupropion) "Once I started taking Wellbutrin, it was wild. I forgot what it was like to feel anger and lust. I forgot what it was like to not feel exhausted for no real reason. Even small things like listening to music became wonderful again. I was very manic when I first started taking the medication. I could feel myself being reckless and putting myself in dangerous situations. I'm also more aggressive on Wellbutrin, but it's just something I have to be aware of and learn to control. I stopped taking my anti-anxiety meds after taking Wellbutrin, too, because they made me wildly dizzy when I took them with Wellbutrin. Additionally, I can be anxious/have irrational thoughts now, but it's nothing from which I can't talk myself down. Overall, my self-esteem and sense of wellbeing has vastly improved. I'd highly recommend Wellbutrin to anyone whose family has a history of mental illness. I think the boost of dopamine and norepinephrine really helps with MDD."

8 / 10
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  • BVan
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • June 13, 2019

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "Wellbutrin worked very well for me and did so in a matter of weeks. I started at 150mg SR per day and felt somewhat better. When increased to 300mg XL I felt virtually normal. I don't know if it saved my life, but it certainly let me feel life was worth living. The only side effects I have had are slight weight loss and somewhat more energy. Both of these side effects are actually welcome."

10 / 10
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  • Impre...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 2, 2016

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "This has been a life saver! Totally changed my life. I have tried SSRI many kinds to deal with my MDD with horrible side effects/ only slight headaches with wellbutrin;) I am very pleased with the results. It's been almost 2 months no sludge on the brain!!! THANK YOU!! I am GRATEFUL!!"

10 / 10
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79 Report
  • Pura
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • July 24, 2019

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) "It took a month or so but honestly the best medication I've ever been on. I tried over 15 different things before and finally wellbutrin allows me to feel happy and depression is much more manageable. I will say side effect wise I have a decrease in appetite and have lost around 12 pounds in 4 months. I am also more easily angered based on my menstrual cycle."

9 / 10
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  • Tacob...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • November 24, 2019

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I started this a month ago, first it made me very hostile but after a few days I evened out, I am taking it having bulimia and anorexia alternating as well as major depressive disorder It has actually helped me control my eating and almost fully stopped the binge purge cycle. However it does have it's drawbacks, I have a fast heart rate not really fast but noticeable, less suicidal thoughts but when they do come they are stronger impulses and the urge to self harm has been lowered but I still have moments I lose control but it has definitely helped me a lot and I choose the side effects over wanting to commit suicide constantly. This has saved my life 100% for sure because before I had planned to end my life but this made me reconsider it and I want to live."

8 / 10
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  • BrianAZ
  • November 20, 2014

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I'm male, 54 years old and weigh about 180 LBS. The first time I tried Wellbutrin, it was 150mg twice a day. It was too much for me. Side effects: Jitters, hyperactive, constant bouncing of knee when sitting, clenching teeth, weight loss, tinnitus, insomnia, dull headache in back of head. I decided to quit Wellbutrin but recently resumed using it. I only take 75mg in the morning (5 AM) then 75mg at 11 AM. They are the "SR" type. I will continue using this dose until my body adjusts and then I may up the dose to 150 twice a day. For me, starting at 300mg a day was far too much. I believe starting lower, I will be able to remain on this."

7 / 10
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84 Report
  • Key
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • June 13, 2023

Wellbutrin (bupropion) "I tried this after Prozac, Lexapro, Celexa, zoloft, and cymbalta. Worst one. The worst. I've been on 150xl for a month and a half and I can't eat without my stomach tensing up and bile going to my stomach. My menstrual cycle is all messed up, I am tired and spacey, I have horrible diarrhea and anxiety, I feel like utter trash. I think I'm done with antidepressants."

1 / 10
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14 Report

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

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