Wellbutrin® for weight loss: How it works and what to expect

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is often prescribed for depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It’s made its way into the conversation about medications for weight loss because it’s different from many antidepressants. While many antidepressants are associated with weight gain, Wellbutrin^® isn’t; it has been shown to help some people lose weight. 

First approved by the FDA in 1985 to treat depression, Wellbutrin^® works by influencing two key brain chemicals—dopamine and norepinephrine—that affect mood, focus, and energy. Over time, it also gained approval for seasonal affective disorder and as a support for quitting smoking.

Researchers also noticed another effect people taking Wellbutrin^® experienced: modest weight loss. That finding led to further studies and eventually to the development of Contrave^®, a combination of bupropion and another medication called naltrexone, approved by the FDA for weight management.

Today, many people research Wellbutrin^® and bupropion for weight loss. Here’s how it works for weight loss off-label, what to expect when taking it, costs, and side effects and safety details to know before discussing it with your healthcare provider. Plus, whether Contrave or another medication might be right for you instead. 

What is Wellbutrin^®? 

Wellbutrin^® is a prescription medication made with the active ingredient bupropion that helps improve mood, focus, and energy. It’s approved to treat major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and smoking cessation under the brand name Zyban^®.

Because it acts differently from most antidepressants, many people find it helpful when they’re looking for mental health support without the side effects like fatigue or weight gain. Wellbutrin^® is available in several forms, each designed to release the medication at a different rate:

• Wellbutrin^® SR^® (sustained-release): Taken twice daily for steady symptom control throughout the day. The generic version of Wellbutrin^® SR^® is also available as bupropion sustained-release.
• Wellbutrin^® XL^® (extended-release): Taken once daily for convenience and all-day coverage. Wellbutrin^® XL^® is also available as a generic, under the name bupropion XL.
• Bupropion IR (immediate release): Bupropion IR is a generic medication that is usually taken 2-3 times per day (with 4-6 hours between doses).

How Wellbutrin^® works and when it’s typically used

Wellbutrin^® works by increasing the levels of two brain chemicals—dopamine and norepinephrine—that help regulate mood, energy, and focus. It does this by preventing the reuptake of those chemicals, which makes more of them available in the brain, and this medication is therefore classified as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). Because it targets these pathways instead of serotonin, it works differently from the most commonly prescribed antidepressants, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

It’s often prescribed in specific situations, such as:

• Major depressive disorder: Wellbutrin^® helps lift mood, boost energy, and improve concentration.
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): It can reduce fatigue and low motivation that often occur during darker months.
• Smoking cessation (as Zyban^®): It eases withdrawal symptoms and cravings by balancing brain chemistry.
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Wellbutrin® can also be prescribed off-label for the management of ADHD.
• Managing fatigue or weight-related side effects from other antidepressants: Its stimulating effect can help restore energy and motivation, so it is often prescribed alongside SSRI medications or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

How can Wellbutrin^® help with weight loss?

While Wellbutrin^® isn’t FDA-approved for weight loss, research shows it can lead to modest weight loss for some people. 

Wellbutrin^® (bupropion) can influence how your brain responds to hunger and reward signals. By increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels it helps reduce appetite, control cravings, and improve energy. This makes it easier to maintain healthy habits like balanced eating and regular activity—key factors for sustainable weight loss.

Unlike medications that mimic hormones, such as GLP-1 medications like Wegovy^® and Zebound®, the bupropion in Wellbutrin^® acts directly on the brain’s appetite and motivation centers. 

This connection led to the development of Contrave^®, a combination of bupropion and naltrexone that received FDA approval in 2014 for weight management. Contrave^® builds on Wellbutrin^®’s effect on appetite and reward signals in the brain. While the bupropion in Contrave^® helps reduce hunger and improve energy and mood, the naltrexone blocks certain opioid receptors involved in the brain’s “reward” response to food. Together, they help lower cravings, make overeating less rewarding, and support more balanced eating habits over time.

How much weight can I lose by taking Wellbutrin^®?

Research shows that weight changes with bupropion are usually modest but meaningful. In a clinical trial, participants taking bupropion lost an average of 5% of their body weight (which could be 8-12 pounds for someone weighing 200 pounds) over 8 weeks. People who lost at least 5% of their body weight during the 8-week trial also participated in a continuation trial and were able to lose an average of 13% of their body weight over 24 weeks.

How much weight can I lose with Contrave?

In clinical studies, people taking Contrave® lost an average of about 8 to 12% of their starting body weight over a year, along with healthy eating and exercise.

How long does it take to lose weight on Wellbutrin^®?

It’s possible to see changes within a few weeks, but noticeable progress usually appears after two to three months of consistent use, according to studies.  For the best results, it’s ideal to combine Wellbutrin^® with diet and exercise changes. In one study, those who combined Wellbutrin^® with a healthy diet and exercise habits lost an average of 10% of their body weight.

Next, let’s take a closer look at how much Wellbutrin^® costs, what insurance typically covers, and the savings options that can make treatment more affordable.

Wellbutrin^®: Cost and insurance considerations

One of the advantages of Wellbutrin^® is that it’s widely available as a generic medication.

Generic vs. brand-name pricing

• Generic bupropion can cost as little as $7 to $20 for a 30-day supply at many major pharmacies. 
• Brand-name versions: 
  • Wellbutrin^® XL^® : (150 mg, 30 tablets) This extended-release version costs approximately $2,000 without insurance
  •  Wellbutrin^® SR^® :(150 mg, 60 tablets) This sustained-release version costs around $500 without insurance.

Does insurance cover Wellbutrin^®?

Coverage depends on your plan and the reason it’s prescribed.

• Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover generic bupropion when prescribed for depression or seasonal affective disorder.
• Coverage for weight management is unlikely because medication for weight loss isn’t typically covered by insurance.
• Contact your insurance provider to confirm whether bupropion appears on your plan’s preferred drug list.

What does Contrave cost?

The cost of Contrave^® can vary depending on dosage, insurance coverage, location, pharmacy, and available discounts. 

• With insurance: The total cost depends on your specific plan and provider. If your insurance does cover Contrave^®, you can use the Contrave^® Savings Card to lower the price to as little as $20 per month. The maximum you will pay with the savings card program is $199, depending on your pharmacy and coverage.
• Without insurance: Contrave^® can cost as much as $500-$700 per month without insurance. However, the manufacturer’s CurAccess™ Patient Support Program can help you lower that cost. This program offers Contrave^® for $99 per month with free shipping for people living in the United States. It’s available to those whose prescriptions are processed as cash-paying customers, including Medicaid, Medicare Part D, and people with TRICARE benefits. In order to be eligible, you can’t be using those benefits to cover a portion of medication costs.

Wellbutrin^®: How to take it and dosage for weight loss

Wellbutrin^® (bupropion) is taken by mouth and comes in two main forms: sustained-release (SR) and extended-release (XL). Both gradually release medication into your system to help maintain steady levels throughout the day. The main difference between Wellbutrin^® SR and XL is how long they last in your system. The SR version is usually taken twice a day, while the XL version releases more slowly, so you only need one dose daily.

Available dosage options

It’s important to note that since Wellbutrin^® isn’t FDA-approved for weight loss, the doses below represent the typical doses for treating depression, and doses for weight loss may vary.

• Wellbutrin^® SR^® (Sustained-Release):
  • Starting dose: 150 mg once daily.
  • After 3 days: The dose may increase to 300 mg per day, taken as 150 mg twice daily, at least 8 hours apart.
  • Usual target dose: 300 mg per day (150 mg twice daily).
  • Maximum dose: 400 mg per day, given as 200 mg twice daily, for those not responding to 300 mg/day.
  • The dose should be increased gradually to reduce the risk of seizures.
    
• Wellbutrin^® XL^® (Extended-Release):
  • Starting dose: 150 mg once daily in the morning.
  • After 4 days: The dose may increase to 300 mg once daily if tolerated.
  • For seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Treatment often starts in the fall and continues through the winter months, beginning at 150 mg daily and increasing to 300 mg after one week.
  • As with SR, the dose should be increased slowly to reduce seizure risk.

Wellbutrin^®: Dosage adjustments and personalization

Your healthcare provider will adjust the dose of Wellbutrin® based on how your body responds, your overall health, and how well you tolerate the medication.

How providers personalize your dosage

Your healthcare provider will begin with a low starting dose—often 150 mg daily—and gradually increase it once you’ve adjusted well. This approach helps minimize side effects and allows your provider to find the lowest effective dose that still supports your goals.

They’ll also review other medications you take, since bupropion can interact with certain antidepressants, ADHD medications, or substances that lower seizure threshold. Regular check-ins allow them to fine-tune your dosage as your progress continues.

Signs you may need a dose adjustment

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent mood changes or low energy after several weeks
• Ongoing side effects like insomnia, nausea, or restlessness
• Little or no change in appetite or weight despite consistent use (when using for off-label weight loss).

Your provider can decide whether a higher, lower, or slower-adjusted dose makes sense. The goal is always to find a level that balances safety, comfort, and effectiveness without unnecessary side effects.

Wellbutrin^®: Tips for best weight loss results

Taking Wellbutrin^® the right way can help you get the most from your treatment—both in how much weight you lose and how comfortable you feel along the way. Here are some helpful guidelines to keep in mind:

• Timing your dose: Take Wellbutrin® in the morning to avoid trouble sleeping later in the day. It can be taken with or without food, but not with a high-fat meal. Try linking your dose to a daily routine—like breakfast or your first cup of coffee—to help you remember consistently.
• If you miss a dose: Skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time. Never double up to “catch up,” as this increases the risk of side effects such as jitteriness or seizures. If you forget often, setting a reminder on your phone can help you stay consistent.
• Managing side effects: Mild side effects like dry mouth, restlessness, or nausea often improve within a few weeks. If they persist, try taking your dose with food or at a slightly different time of day. Avoid taking it close to bedtime, since Wellbutrin® can be stimulating.
• Supporting your results: Combine your medication with balanced nutrition, regular movement, and consistent sleep. Track your meals and energy levels during the first few weeks to notice patterns. These small adjustments make the biggest difference over time.

Wellbutrin^®: Side effects and safety

Like many prescription medications, Wellbutrin^® can cause side effects—most are mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts. 

Common side effects

It’s normal to notice some side effects when starting Wellbutrin^®, especially during the first few weeks. Since the medication works by increasing certain brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine, your body needs time to adjust to those changes in energy and mood. That’s why things like dry mouth, trouble sleeping, or feeling a bit jittery can show up at first. The good news is that these effects are usually mild and fade as your system gets used to the medication.

You might experience:

• Trouble sleeping
• Dry mouth
• Feeling anxious
• Constipation
• Stuffy nose
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Joint aches

These symptoms are usually short-term and tend to improve after the first couple of weeks. If something doesn’t feel right or seems to persist, talk with your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dose, change timing, or suggest strategies to make side effects easier to manage.

Rare but serious side effects

Serious reactions to Wellbutrin^® are uncommon, but it’s important to recognize them early and get medical help right away if they appear.

• Boxed Warning – Suicidal thoughts and behaviors: Like many antidepressants, Wellbutrin^® can sometimes increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, teens, and young adults—especially during the first few months of treatment or after a dose change. It’s important to keep an eye out for mood changes, agitation, or any unusual behavior, and reach out to your healthcare provider right away if you notice anything concerning.

Other rare but serious side effects include:

• Seizures – Signs include sudden convulsions or loss of awareness. Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention.
• Severe allergic reactions – Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, or throat; rash; fever; or difficulty breathing. Call 911 for immediate medical assistance.
• Mania or mood changes – Unusual excitement, extreme energy, racing thoughts, or agitation, especially in people with bipolar disorder. Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor.
• High blood pressure – Headaches, chest pain, or blurred vision may indicate elevated blood pressure. Contact your doctor for medical assistance.
• Visual problems – Eye pain, redness, or vision changes could signal increased eye pressure (angle-closure glaucoma). See a doctor as soon as possible. With any sudden vision loss, get immediate medical attention.

If you experience any new or worsening mental health symptoms, physical changes, or side effects that concern you, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Who shouldn’t take Wellbutrin^®?

Wellbutrin^® isn’t suitable for everyone, and your healthcare provider will carefully review your health history before prescribing it.

You shouldn’t take Wellbutrin^® if:

• You have or have ever had a seizure disorder or epilepsy.
• You have or have ever had an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia.
• You are abruptly stopping alcohol, sedatives, or anti-seizure medications, as this can increase the risk of seizures.
• You are taking other medications containing bupropion, such as Zyban^®, Aplenzin^®, Auvelity^®, or Forfivo XL^®.
• You are currently taking or have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), including linezolid or methylene blue.
• You have a known allergy to bupropion or any of the ingredients in Wellbutrin^®.

Your provider may also recommend avoiding or using extra caution with Wellbutrin^® if you:

• Have liver or kidney problems.
• Have a history of head injury, tumor, or seizure risk factors.
• Have high blood pressure or heart disease.
• Have a history of bipolar disorder, mania, or psychotic symptoms.
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

It’s important to share your full medical history before starting Wellbutrin^®. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether it’s the right choice for your mental health and weight management goals.

Overdose risks and symptoms

Taking more than your prescribed dose of Wellbutrin^® (bupropion) can lead to serious side effects. Possible signs of an overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, muscle twitching or stiffness, rapid heartbeat, or seizures.

Overdoses are uncommon but can be dangerous. Always follow your prescribed dosing schedule and talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes. If you think you’ve taken too much, contact your healthcare provider, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

For full prescribing information and detailed dosing guidance, visit the official FDA and manufacturer resources: Wellbutrin^® SR and Wellbutrin^® XL.

Wellbutrin^® vs. Other weight loss medications: Weight loss potential

Studies show that bupropion-based treatments can support modest weight loss when paired with healthy habits. Here’s how Wellbutrin^® compares to other commonly prescribed options:

Medication	Study length	Average weight loss
Bupropion – 300 mg (Wellbutrin®) (off-label)	8–24 weeks	5-13%
Bupropion + Naltrexone (Contrave®)	56 weeks	8-12%
Semaglutide – 2.4 mg (Wegovy®)	68 weeks	15%
Tirzepatide – 15 mg (Zepbound®)	72 weeks	21%
Liraglutide – 3 mg (Saxenda®)	56 weeks	6%

Wellbutrin^® alone tends to produce moderate results—5-13% of body weight lost. GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy^® and Zepbound^® are generally more effective but differ in cost, form (injections vs. oral), and side effect profiles.

Frequently asked questions about Wellbutrin^®

Starting a new medication often comes with questions about how it fits into your daily routine. Below are some of the most common questions people have about using Wellbutrin^® for weight management—covering everything from dosing and timing to lifestyle tips and safety.

What is the normal dose of Wellbutrin^® for weight loss?

The target dose is usually 300 mg per day, though some may increase to 400 mg per day under medical supervision. Since Wellbutrin^® is only used for weight loss off-label, these dosages may vary, and your provider will personalize your dose to balance results and minimize side effects.

Can you have caffeine while on Wellbutrin^®?

Yes, but in moderation. Both caffeine and Wellbutrin^® can increase alertness and, for some people, cause trouble sleeping. If you notice restlessness or anxiety, try reducing caffeine or avoiding it later in the day.

Can you drink alcohol while taking Wellbutrin^®?

Alcohol should be limited or avoided. Drinking while on Wellbutrin^® can raise your risk of side effects such as dizziness, mood changes, or seizures. If you drink occasionally, discuss safe limits with your provider before starting treatment.

What happens if I miss a dose of Wellbutrin^®?

If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the usual time. Don’t double up—taking doses too close together increases seizure risk. Always keep at least 8 hours between SR doses and 24 hours between XL doses.

How long can you safely take Wellbutrin^®?

Wellbutrin^® is safe for long-term use when monitored by a healthcare provider. Many people take it for several months to over a year. However, since weight loss is not an FDA-approved use for Wellbutrin^®, your provider will best be able to determine how long you should take this medication. Regular check-ins help ensure your dose stays effective, side effects remain manageable, and you’re able to continue taking the medication without any negative impacts.

What kind of diet and exercise plan works best with Wellbutrin^®?

The best results come from pairing medication with a balanced lower-calorie diet and regular movement. One study showed that people who took Wellbutrin^® alongside diet and exercise changes were able to lose 10% of their body weight after 24 weeks. Focus on lean proteins, fiber-rich foods, fruits, and vegetables while limiting processed sugars and refined carbs. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days—like walking, cycling, or resistance training—to support metabolism and mood.

The bottom line: Wellbutrin^® can lead to moderate weight loss off-label

Wellbutrin^® can be prescribed off-label to support modest, steady weight loss—5-13% of body weight over 8-24 weeks—but it works best when combined with lasting lifestyle changes. Pairing the medication with balanced eating, regular movement, and mindful habits creates a stronger foundation for long-term success. A medication like Contrave^® may also be a good bet, since it combines bupropion with naltrexone to better curb cravings.

Because it isn’t designed as a standalone weight loss treatment, consistent medical supervision is important. Your provider can help determine whether it’s a good fit, especially if you have conditions like seizure disorders or eating disorders that may affect safety.

For many, the most sustainable results come from combining medical care with behavioral guidance and ongoing support. If you qualify for Noom Med, we’ll connect you with a clinician who can assess your current weight loss needs, prescribe medication, if needed, and develop a plan to help you reach those goals. Our personalized coaching can help you build healthier habits that last. 

Note: Wellbutrin® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.