bupropion (Wellbutrin)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore an antidepressant medication like bupropion (Wellbutrin) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

What is an NDRI?

A norepinephrine–dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) is a class of medication commonly used to treat mental health conditions like depression.

How does an NDRI work?

NDRIs increase the availability of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Norepinephrine is a naturally-occurring brain chemical that supports focus, attention, and energy; dopamine is also a naturally occurring brain chemical that plays an important role in our brain's reward center and in motivation.

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FAQs about bupropion (Wellbutrin)

What is bupropion (Wellbutrin) used for?

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant medication used to treat a variety of mental health disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Does bupropion (Wellbutrin) cause weight gain or loss?

Changes in weight are a common side effect of antidepressant medication — bupropion (Wellbutrin) is more likely to cause weight loss than gain. If you have concerns about managing your weight while taking antidepressant medication, consult with your provider.

Is bupropion (Wellbutrin) a controlled substance or stimulant?

No, bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) and is not classified as a controlled substance.

Does bupropion (Wellbutrin) help with anxiety?

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is most often prescribed to treat depression, but in some cases may be used to treat symptoms of anxiety or other mental health conditions.

How long does bupropion (Wellbutrin) take to work?

Unlike some other medications, which can take 4 to 8 weeks to have a full effect, bupropion is often effective within days of starting the medication.

Does bupropion (Wellbutrin) make you sleepy?

As with all medications, side effects can occur (or not) for everyone differently. With bupropion (Wellbutrin), fatigue is uncommon. In fact, it’s usually recommended to take bupropion (Wellbutrin) in the morning due to its common activating effects.

How long does bupropion (Wellbutrin) stay in your system?

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) has a half-life of approximately 21 hours — this means that your body will have processed half of the medication’s dosage within 21 hours of taking it. It will take close to 5 days for bupropion to be fully out of your system.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published October 3, 2024
Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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