Find patient medical information for Bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban, and others) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a prescription drug that treats depression. Its exact mechanism of action isn’t known, but it affects certain chemical messengers in your brain involved in mood and energy. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) treats depression. It helps regulate your mood by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine hormones in your brain. Wellbutrin (bupropion) may cause headaches, dry mouth, and insomnia in some people. Here’s how you can manage Wellbutrin side effects. What is Wellbutrin, and how does it work? Used to treat depression, Wellbutrin is also known as the generic name bupropion. Learn more here. What is Bupropion? Bupropion (brand names include Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, and others) is a medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) [15]. It works differently from many other antidepressants because it affects norepinephrine and dopamine instead of serotonin [1]. Wellbutrin XL®: At first, 150 mg once a day in the morning. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 300 mg per day. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor. For seasonal affective disorder: Adults— Aplenzin®: At first, 174 milligrams (mg) once a day in the morning. Easy-to-read patient tips for wellbutrin covering how it works, benefits, risks, and best practices. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an atypical antidepressant used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder. Online healthcare providers make it easy to get evaluations and prescription consultations for treatments like Wellbutrin. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. Includes Wellbutrin side effects, interactions and indications.