Comparing Wellbutrin vs. Lexapro in uses, effectiveness, and side effects. Learn which antidepressant is suitable for your needs.
Wellbutrin vs. Lexapro: Comparison of Uses, Side Effects, and Effectiveness
Depression and Anxiety are the most common mental health conditions globally. In the United States, approximately 21.0 million adults struggle with at least one Major depressive episode.
The prevalence of Depression is increasing every year.
Wellbutrin is used to treat depression and was approved by the FDA in 1985. Lexapro is used to treat depression and was approved by the FDA in 2002. Wellbutrin and Lexapro are both helpful in treating major depressive disorder, but they have different mechanisms of action, side effect profiles, and effectiveness depending on the individual.
Discussing Wellbutrin vs. Lexapro helps you to understand why your doctor may prescribe you different antidepressants based on your medical history and how your body responds to the treatment.
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Warning!
The use of antidepressants can be helpful, but in some cases, it may also lead to suicidal ideation.
Family members or caregivers should be vigilant and seek medical advice if they notice unusual behaviour or signs of suicidality.
Only your doctor can guide you on the most appropriate treatment plan for your needs and adjust the medication dosage accordingly. When you start taking Bupropion (Wellbutrin) or receive a refill, your doctor or pharmacist will provide a Medication Guide. Read it carefully, or you can access it on the FDA website. |
What Is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin is used as an antidepressant and is a brand name of Bupropion. Bupropion (FDA approved) treats:
- Major depressive disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder
Bupropion, under the brand name Zyban, helps people to quit smoking (FDA-approved).
Antidepressants are prescription-only medicines. It belongs to the class of drugs NDRIs (Norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitors). Wellbutrin is an atypical antidepressant and comes in three forms:
- Immediate Release (IR)
- Sustained release (SR)
- Extended release (XL)
How Does Wellbutrin Work?
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that belongs to the aminoketone class. It works differently from other antidepressants because it affects the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. Other antidepressants, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, affect serotonin. Wellbutrin helps to regulate chemicals (norepinephrine and dopamine) in the brain.
What Is Lexapro?
Lexapro is an antidepressant and is a brand name of Escitalopram. Escitalopram (FDA approved) treats
- Major depressive disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
Lexapro belongs to the drug class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is prescription-only. It is available in two forms.
- Tablet
- Oral solution
It is used for children, adults, and teenagers 12 years or above.
How Does Lexapro Work?
Lexapro boosts serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin plays an important role in mood and emotional regulation. This helps to control symptoms of depression.
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Uses of Wellbutrin vs. Lexapro
| Wellbutrin (Bupropion | Lexapro (Escitalopram) | Uses |
| FDA-approved | FDA-approved | Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) |
| FDA-approved | Off-label use | Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) |
| FDA-approved | Not approved | Smoking Cessation |
| Off-label use | FDA-approved | Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) |
| Off-label use | Not approved | Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) |
| Off-label use | Off-label use | Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) |
| Off-label use | Off-label use | Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) |
| Off-label use | Off-label use | Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) |
| Off-label use | Off-label use | Panic Disorder |
| Off-label use | Off-label use for other anxiety disorders (except GAD) | Anxiety Disorder (other) |
Comparing Effectiveness: Wellbutrin vs. Lexapro
Wellbutrin and Lexapro are the most commonly prescribed medications for depression. While both are effective, they differ in several ways, including their mechanism of action and side effects. Lexapro and Wellbutrin belong to different drug classes, SSRI and NDRI, respectively.
A Study has shown that Wellbutrin (Bupropion) and Lexapro (Escitalopram) are both effective for reducing depression symptoms without a placebo (treatment without an active ingredient). Bupropion is a preferable option because it is linked with fewer sexual side effects.
- Lexapro is a first-line prescription medicine for depression
- Wellbutrin may be the preferred option for those people who experience low energy
- Wellbutrin may be the preferred option for its fewer sexual side effects
- Lexapro is effective for treating anxiety
- Wellbutrin may worsen the anxiety
Wellbutrin vs. Lexapro: Comparing the Benefits
| Wellbutrin (Bupropion) | Lexapro (Escitalopram) |
| May intensify anxiety | Better for Anxiety-related disorders |
| Better for low energy | may cause drowsiness |
| Increase motivation | May cause fatigue |
| Less prone to causing weight gain | May cause weight gain (for some individuals) |
| Less prone to sexual dysfunction | High risk of sexual side effects |
| Not FDA-approved | FDA-approved for anxiety |
| FDA-approved for smoking cessation (Zyban) | Plays no role |
| Benefits to help ADHD symptoms | Plays no role |
| May cause insomnia (for some people) | It may help with sleep, but it can cause drowsiness and sleep issues. |
| Low serotonin syndrome risk | Higher risk of Serotonin syndrome |
- Wellbutrin may be a better option for people concerned about low energy, sexual side effects, or trying to quit smoking.
- Lexapro may be a better option if you are dealing with anxiety or looking for relief from constant tension and worry.
Always consult your doctor and discuss the risks and benefits to determine which medication is right for you.
Side Effects of Wellbutrin
Common side effects of Bupropion ( Wellbutrin) include:
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Headache
- Fatigue
- insomnia
- Constipation
- Agitation
- Tremors
Serious Side Effects
- Mania/hypomania (people with bipolar disorder)
- Seizures
- Suicidal thoughts/behavior
- Severe allergic reaction
- Hallucinations/Delusions
- High blood pressure
Side Effects of Lexapro
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Constipation/diarrhea
- Appetite changes
- Sexual dysfunction
Serious Side Effects
- Mania/hypomania (people with bipolar disorder)
- Suicidal thoughts/behaviour
- Seizures
- Severe allergic reaction
- Risk of abnormal bleeding
- Abnormal heart rhymes
- Low sodium level
- Serotonin syndrome
When you start taking medications, you may notice some side effects. If you feel any side effects or unusual reactions, call your doctor or seek emergency medical help.
Can I Take Wellbutrin and Lexapro Together?
Wellbutrin and Lexapro should be taken and monitored under medical supervision. A study explored whether both medications could be taken together. According to the findings, the combination of Bupropion and Escitalopram is safe. (It was a pilot study, so further research is required to validate the results.)
Its example is like vehicles, if it’s a car or a motorbike. Both have the same destination, with different routes and different experiences along the way. Similarly, Bupropion and Escitalopram treat depression, but both have different mechanisms of action and affect differently.
Combining these medications may be effective and safe, but it’s crucial to consult your doctor first. Both drugs have benefits but carry potential risks. Your doctor will evaluate your medical and health history to determine if this combination is appropriate.
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Drug Interaction
Due to the potential for interaction, combining Bupropion and Escitalopram is not a common practice. It may be done under the supervision of healthcare professionals to avoid any potential risks, incorrect dosage of wellbutrin or Lexapro, or adverse reaction.
Always inform your doctor if you are taking antidepressants or over-the-counter anxiety or other drugs. Some drug combinations can cause serious side effects and may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
Reach out now at Therapy Fleet to book an online appointment and receive guidance towards a healthier future.
Conclusion
Wellbutrin and Lexapro are effective for depression, but they work differently. Remember, not one size fits all. So, choosing between Wellbutrin or Lexapro depends on individual medical history, symptoms, and how the body reacts to medications. If you are struggling with a lack of energy or sexual side effects, Wellbutrin may be a better option. If you are dealing with anxiety, Lexapro may be a better option.
Always ask your doctor if you are combining both medications or facing side effects. Therapy Fleet offers personalized mental health care tailored to your needs. Our professionals can help you choose the right option. We are just a click away. Book your online appointment now!
Medical Disclaimer:
At Therapy Fleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to Therapy Fleet’s qualified staff.
Choosing the right antidepressant isn’t about finding the ‘best’ one—It’s about finding the one that fits you best.
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FAQs
1. Which has fewer side effects, Wellbutrin or Lexapro?
Wellbutrin has fewer side effects of weight and sexual dysfunction, while Lexapro may have fewer sleep issues. But every individual is unique. If someone is having side effects of sexual dysfunction or weight-related problems, it does not mean that everyone experiences the same. So it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of the medications.
2. Does Lexapro work better for anxiety?
Lexapro may be the better choice because it is one of the most prescribed SSRIs (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) medications for anxiety.
3. Who is not a good candidate for Wellbutrin?
Individuals who have a history of
- Seizures
- Eating disorder (Bullemia nervosa/Anoroxia Nervosa)
- Glaucoma
- Heart problems
- Suicidal ideation
- Hepatic impairment
- Recent use of MAOI
- Severe head injury
- Brain tumor
4. Can depression get worse with Lexapro (Escitalopram)?
Escitalopram may cause a tendency to suicidal ideation in some cases during the start of the treatment.
5. Does Wellbutrin have fewer sexual side effects?
Wellbutrin has fewer sexual side effects. Antidepressants with fewer sexual side effects are:
- Atypical antidepressants
- SNRIs
- MAOI
Sources
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470212/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557734/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11543228/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2778329/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants/faq-20058104#:~:text=Antidepressants%20with%20the%20lowest%20rate,
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC99232/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/escitalopram-oral-route/description/drg-20063707
Additional Sources
- https://www.therapyfleet.com/a-guide-to-wellbutrin-dosage-for-depression-and-anxiety/
- https://www.therapyfleet.com/side-effects-of-bupropion-can-wellbutrin-cause-anxiety/
- https://www.therapyfleet.com/over-the-counter-anxiety-medicines-supplements-herbs/
- https://www.therapyfleet.com/a-guide-to-wellbutrin-dosage-for-depression-and-anxiety/
