Wellbutrin vs Prozac: side-by-side comparison
Wellbutrin (Bupropion) and Prozac (Fluoxetine) 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 | Wellbutrin | Prozac |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Bupropion | Fluoxetine |
| Manufacturer | GlaxoSmithKline | Eli Lilly |
| Class | Anti-Depressants | Anti-Depressants |
| Strengths | 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg | 10mg, 20mg, 40mg |
| Forms | tablet | capsule, tablet |
What's the same
Wellbutrin and Prozac both belong to the Anti-Depressants class and are used for partially overlapping indications. The active ingredients — Bupropion vs Fluoxetine — share the same therapeutic approach, so many safety and management points carry across both.
Key differences
Meaningful differences are in active ingredient (Bupropion vs Fluoxetine), strengths (75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg vs 10mg, 20mg, 40mg), forms (tablet vs capsule, tablet), and the mechanism, half-life and side-effect nuances that distinguish members of the class.
Mechanism and action
Wellbutrin: Wellbutrin inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, with much weaker effect on serotonin. Prozac: Fluoxetine selectively inhibits the serotonin reuptake transporter, increasing synaptic serotonin availability.
When Wellbutrin is preferred
Wellbutrin is approved for major depressive disorder and prevention of seasonal affective disorder recurrence (Wellbutrin XL).
When Prozac is preferred
Prozac is approved for major depressive disorder (adult and paediatric from age 8), obsessive-compulsive disorder (paediatric from age 7), bulimia nervosa, panic disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wellbutrin or Prozac better? ▾
There is no single answer. Wellbutrin and Prozac 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 Wellbutrin to Prozac? ▾
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 Wellbutrin and Prozac 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.