Cymbalta vs Wellbutrin: side-by-side comparison
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) and Wellbutrin (Bupropion) both belong to the Anti-Depressants class. They share clinical context but use different active ingredients. The choice between them depends on mechanism nuances, side-effect profile and individual response.
| Property | Cymbalta | Wellbutrin |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Duloxetine | Bupropion |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | GlaxoSmithKline |
| Class | Anti-Depressants | Anti-Depressants |
| Strengths | 20mg, 30mg, 60mg | 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg |
| Forms | capsule | tablet |
What's the same
Cymbalta and Wellbutrin both belong to the Anti-Depressants class and are used for partially overlapping indications. The active ingredients — Duloxetine vs Bupropion — share the same therapeutic approach, so many safety and management points carry across both.
Key differences
Meaningful differences are in active ingredient (Duloxetine vs Bupropion), strengths (20mg, 30mg, 60mg vs 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg), forms (capsule vs tablet), and the mechanism, half-life and side-effect nuances that distinguish members of the class.
Mechanism and action
Cymbalta: Cymbalta inhibits the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine at the synapse. Wellbutrin: Wellbutrin inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, with much weaker effect on serotonin.
When Cymbalta is preferred
Cymbalta is approved for major depressive disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia and chronic musculoskeletal pain.
When Wellbutrin is preferred
Wellbutrin is approved for major depressive disorder and prevention of seasonal affective disorder recurrence (Wellbutrin XL).
Frequently asked questions
Is Cymbalta or Wellbutrin better? ▾
There is no single answer. Cymbalta and Wellbutrin both belong to the Anti-Depressants class but differ in mechanism nuances, half-life and side-effect profile. Preference depends on the patient, the prescriber and prior response to other therapies.
Can I switch from Cymbalta to Wellbutrin? ▾
Switching within the Anti-Depressants class is done under supervision, typically using equivalent doses and a follow-up period to confirm response and tolerance. It is not a self-directed decision.
Do Cymbalta and Wellbutrin have the same side effects? ▾
They share many of the Anti-Depressants class side effects, with differences from mechanism and dose. Each medication's prescribing information lists specifics.
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The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.