Depression can look and feel different for everyone, and so can the treatments that help. Two options you might be considering are Auvelity® and Wellbutrin® (bupropion). Both are prescription antidepressants that work on brain chemicals linked to mood, motivation and energy — but they aren’t the same.

Here’s what to know about how they compare, how they work and what to expect.

• Auvelity is a newer antidepressant that combines two medicines — bupropion and dextromethorphan — to combat depression. It was FDA approved in 2022.

• Wellbutrin (bupropion) has been around since the 1980s and is available as a low-cost generic.

• Both help treat depression, but Auvelity may start working a little faster for some people.

• They both pose potential side effects, but the risks for each are unique.

What is Auvelity?

Auvelity is a prescription tablet for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD). It combines two active ingredients to help balance mood:¹

• Dextromethorphan, which belongs to a class of medications called NMDA (N-Methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonists.

• Bupropion, an NDRI (norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor) that increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels to support focus and motivation.

Auvelity was FDA approved in 2022² and is taken once daily for the first three days, then twice a day starting on day four.³

What is Wellbutrin (bupropion)?

Wellbutrin (generic bupropion) was FDA approved in 1985 and has been trusted for decades to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

The medication is an antidepressant that belongs to a drug class called NDRIs (norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors).⁴ It works by boosting dopamine and norepinephrine to help improve mood, energy and concentration.

Wellbutrin is available in suspended release (SR) or extended release (XL) tablets. Dosage can depend on the condition of the patient and what type of depression is being treated.

What are the differences between Auvelity and Wellbutrin?

While both contain bupropion, Auvelity includes an extra ingredient, dextromethorphan, that treats depression by blocking NMDA receptors and stimulating sigma-1 receptors.⁵

Here’s a quick breakdown of how Auvelity and Wellbutrin differ:

How effective are Auvelity and Wellbutrin for depression?

Both medications can be effective for treating depression.

• Auvelity was shown in clinical trials to reduce symptoms of depression faster than a placebo, with some people noticing improvements in about a week.⁹

• Wellbutrin is backed by decades of research. Many people begin to see improvement in one to two weeks, with greater improvement setting in after six to eight weeks.¹⁰

Everyone responds differently to antidepressants. A medical professional can help you decide which option is best based on your health history, other medications and cost considerations.

How do side effects and safety compare for Auvelity and Wellbutrin?

Both medicines are generally well-tolerated when taken as prescribed, but they can cause side effects. Because both contain bupropion, they share some risks, with Auvelity having additional risks from other ingredients. Always talk to a medical professional before starting, stopping or combining antidepressants.

Common side effects of Auvelity include:¹¹

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Diarrhea

• Drowsiness

• Dry mouth

• Sexual problems

• Increased sweating

Common side effects of Wellbutrin include:¹²

• Anxiety

• Aches or pain

• Chills

• Cough or sore throat

• Difficulty breathing

• Difficulty sleeping

• Dry mouth

• Ear congestion

• Fever

• Hyperventilation

• Irregular heartbeats

• Irritability

• Loss of voice

• Restlessness

• Shaking

• Sneezing

• Stuffy or runny nose

• Tiredness or weakness

With both medications, there is a risk for other more serious side effects, so consult a health care provider to see which treatment is right for you.

What are common drug interactions for Auvelity and Wellbutrin?

Both medications can interact with other drugs. These interactions include but are not limited to:

• Auvelity: Avoid taking with certain antidepressants, migraine medicines or drugs that affect brain chemicals like serotonin or dopamine. It should also not be used with older types of antidepressants called MAO inhibitors. Avoid using with drugs that lower the seizure threshold (like certain antipsychotics or stimulants) or other products containing bupropion.¹³

• Wellbutrin: Avoid using with drugs that lower the seizure threshold (like certain antipsychotics or stimulants) or other products containing bupropion.¹⁴

Always tell your provider about all medications and supplements you take, including any over-the-counter products.

How do costs and insurance coverage compare for Auvelity and Wellbutrin?

Auvelity is a newer drug and only available as a more expensive brand-name medication. It costs $583 for 30 tablets without insurance.¹⁵

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is available in generic form, making it much more affordable without insurance coverage. Redbox Rx offers generic bupropion at $25 per month with the purchase of a three-month supply.

How RedBox Rx can help

Get personalized depression treatment online when you need it. Take a five-minute assessment and schedule a 20-minute video consult with one of our experienced, licensed providers in as little as one hour.

• No membership or subscription fees.

• Low-cost $35 telehealth consult with a licensed medical provider.

• Medications for $25 per month (with purchase of three-month supply).

• Confidential, private and secure.

• Free standard shipping or expedited/overnight available.

If you have immediate thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, call 911, go to the nearest emergency room or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-8255 anytime 24/7.