Are you grappling with depression, seeking to quit smoking, or aiming to manage your weight? Discover if Bupropion, available as Aplenzin or Wellbutrin, is the right choice for you. This article explores the nuances of bupropion and its generic forms, particularly focusing on their effects on weight loss.
What is Bupropion?
Bupropion, marketed under the brand names Aplenzin and Wellbutrin, is an antidepressant medication. Primarily, it is prescribed for treating depression and aiding individuals in smoking cessation. Moreover, it can be used off-label, or alongside depression management, to assist in weight loss. The primary distinction between Aplenzin and Wellbutrin lies in their dosing regimens, while both share the same active ingredient and are used for similar conditions.
How Does Bupropion Work?
The precise mechanism by which bupropion facilitates weight loss remains somewhat unclear. It is thought to influence the levels of specific neurotransmitters in the brain, notably dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating appetite, cravings, and energy metabolism.
Bupropion may contribute to reducing appetite and food cravings, potentially leading to a decrease in overall calorie intake. Additionally, it might enhance energy expenditure by boosting the body's metabolic rate, although the exact processes are still under investigation.
Who Qualifies for Bupropion?
Wellbutrin and Aplenzin have received FDA approval for treating depression. However, Wellbutrin is the only one approved for smoking cessation management. Individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may be considered candidates for Wellbutrin or Aplenzin. Wellbutrin is also an option for active smokers who want to quit. Furthermore, Wellbutrin and Aplenzin can be used off-label for weight loss purposes. If you have a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol), this medication may be suitable.
Read also: The Wellbutrin weight loss timeline
Can Bupropion Be Used For Weight Loss?
Research indicates bupropion can aid in weight loss, especially when combined with lifestyle changes.
A 2012 study examined bupropion's weight loss effects on obese patients. Participants received varying doses of bupropion, combined with a calorie-restricted diet and regular exercise, for 24 weeks. Results indicated that those taking bupropion, along with diet and exercise, experienced a weight loss of approximately 7-10% of their initial body weight. This suggests bupropion can be beneficial for individuals struggling with obesity. It's important to note that bupropion, and indeed any prescription weight loss medication, should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and consistent exercise.
Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL: What’s the Difference?
Wellbutrin XL and Wellbutrin SR are different formulations of the antidepressant bupropion. The key difference lies in the dosing schedule. XL is an extended-release medication and only needs to be taken once a day, while SR is a sustained-release tablet which is released faster. Both XL and SR formulations are approved to treat major depressive disorder.
Bupropion vs Other Prescription Weight Loss Medications
When considering bupropion for weight loss, it's essential to compare it with other available prescription options.
Bupropion vs Contrave
Contrave, an FDA-approved prescription weight loss medication, combines naltrexone and bupropion. A 2013 study (COR-II trial) investigated Contrave's weight loss effects in obese individuals. Participants taking Contrave, along with diet and exercise, for 56 weeks lost about 6% of their body weight. Contrave also reduced certain cardiometabolic risk factors.
Read also: Wellbutrin XL: Understanding Its Impact on Weight
While bupropion appears to have a more significant weight loss effect in a shorter timeframe, Contrave's FDA approval for weight loss may make it easier to qualify for if you do not have depression or are not currently smoking cigarettes. Contrave should be avoided in patients with a history of opioid use disorder or who use opioids chronically. For those struggling with depression, bupropion may be a better option, as Contrave cannot be prescribed to treat depression.
Bupropion vs Qsymia
Qsymia combines phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine suppresses appetite, while topiramate, an anti-seizure drug, reduces appetite and increases feelings of fullness.
A 52-week study (CONQUER Trial) examined Qsymia's effectiveness in treating obesity. Participants lost around 8-10 kg (18-22 lbs) depending on the dose. Approximately 68% experienced at least a 5% weight reduction after one year. Based on these results, Qsymia seems more effective at reducing body weight. It is also FDA-approved for obesity management, potentially simplifying insurance approval.
Bupropion vs GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 agonist medications, initially developed for type 2 diabetes, mimic the GLP-1 hormone, regulating blood sugar and slowing food movement through the gut. Some are FDA-approved for obesity treatment (Wegovy®, Saxenda), while others may be used off-label for weight loss (Mounjaro®, Ozempic®, Rybelsus, Victoza, Trulicity).
These medications can lead to a 10-20% reduction in body weight, especially when combined with diet and exercise. For instance, the SURMOUNT-1 Trial showed an average 15% weight reduction in people taking Mounjaro® over 72 weeks. While highly effective, GLP-1 medications often cost more than bupropion. Although GLP-1 medications may have potential benefits for depression and anxiety, they are not primarily used for treating depression. Bupropion remains a viable option for individuals with depression seeking weight loss.
Read also: Weight Loss and ADHD Medication Options
Bupropion Side Effects
Bupropion can cause side effects, which may vary among individuals. Common side effects include:
- Insomnia (45%)
- Vivid Dreams (~13%)
- Decreased libido or sexual drive (~10%)
- Dry Mouth (27%)
- Constipation (26%)
- Nausea and vomiting (22%)
- Headache (34%)
- Seditation (20%)
- Dizziness (22%)
Bupropion Dosage and Administration
Bupropion is available under the brand names Aplenzin and Wellbutrin, with different dosing schedules.
Wellbutrin is typically administered as a twice-daily tablet, starting at 100mg (200mg per day). After three days, the dose may be increased to 300mg per day (three 100mg tablets taken six hours apart). The maximum dosage for Wellbutrin is 450 mg per day.
Aplenzin's dosing schedule depends on the condition being treated (MDD or SAD). For MDD, Aplenzin starts at 174mg once daily, increasing to 348mg after four days. For SAD, Aplenzin also starts at 174mg, increasing to 348mg after seven days and continued throughout the winter, then gradually tapered off in the spring.
Bupropion Contraindications and Warnings
Certain conditions and warnings are associated with bupropion use:
- Severe Allergic Reaction: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, breathing or swallowing difficulties, severe rash or itching, fainting, dizziness, or a very rapid heartbeat.
- History of Seizures: Bupropion may increase the risk of seizures, particularly in individuals with a history of seizure disorders.
- Anorexia or Bulimia: Individuals with eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia may have a higher risk of seizures when taking bupropion.
- Suicidal Thoughts and Psychiatric Symptoms: Bupropion may worsen suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm and may induce psychosis in those at high risk of developing psychiatric disorders.
- Drug Interactions: Avoid bupropion if you are taking other bupropion-containing products (Contrave, Wellbutrin, Aplenzin) or Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs).
Bupropion Coverage and Cost
Wellbutrin is generally less expensive than Aplenzin. Wellbutrin's monthly cost ranges from $6 to $13, with potential payment assistance programs available. Aplenzin can cost upwards of $2500 per month, with no generic versions available. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be eligible for an Aplenzin CoPay Coupon to reduce costs.
Generic Bupropion: What to Know
Yes, there is a generic for Wellbutrin. Wellbutrin’s generic name is bupropion HCl, and the FDA approved it for use in 2006. Generic versions of medications are generally cheaper and are more likely to be covered by your health insurance. One main difference between brand-name Wellbutrin and generic Wellbutrin is that only the generic version offers an “immediate release” version. Both generic and brand-name Wellbutrin offer sustained-release tablets and extended-release formulations. But while some inactive ingredients may differ between generic Wellbutrin and brand-name Wellbutrin, both medications contain the same active ingredient. Still, while the medications should work the same way, some people notice dissimilarities, including in the side effects of bupropion.
It’s usually simple and easy to switch from Wellbutrin to generic Wellbutrin. “Switching from brand to generic usually does not require tapering because the active drug is the same,” Dr. McClure explains. What matters most is that you stay consistent with whatever formulation you’ve been taking, whether an immediate-release, sustained-release (SR), or extended-release (XL) dosage, according to Dr. It’s also important not to miss doses as you switch from one version of Wellbutrin to another. “If doses are missed, some people can experience withdrawal-like symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, or sleep changes,” Dr. McClure describes. These symptoms are not life-threatening, according to Dr.
Monitoring Weight on Wellbutrin
Monitoring weight on Wellbutrin takes a well-defined plan that combines a healthy lifestyle, nutrition, and mindfulness. Being mindful of your portion sizes and eating regular, consistent meals will help stabilize your metabolism and make maintaining weight easier. A healthy diet is vital to maintaining a healthy weight for your body size and type. Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Studies show that working out regularly is great for establishing a healthy weight long-term. If you’re struggling with your weight or with making healthy lifestyle and diet changes, consider working with a dietician. Mindfulness simply means being aware of what you’re doing in the present. It’s an effective form of meditation that offers positive results, including weight loss. Paying attention to what - and how much - you’re eating can be a game changer in your weight loss journey.