What is the brand name for Bupropion?
The brand name for Bupropion is Wellbutrin.
PTCB TOP 200 · #17
Bupropion
Wellbutrin
Bupropion is the generic name for the brand-name drug Wellbutrin. It is an antidepressant (ndri) used to treat depression, smoking cessation. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Bupropion ranks #17 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Bupropion |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Wellbutrin |
| Drug class | Antidepressant (NDRI) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression, smoking cessation |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Bupropion used for?
Atypical antidepressant for major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder; some products are used for smoking cessation.
What drug class is Bupropion?
Bupropion is an Antidepressant (NDRI) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Bupropion
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightInsomnia
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightAgitation
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated)
- arrow_rightDrugs that lower seizure threshold (e.g., antipsychotics, tramadol) ↑ seizure risk
- arrow_rightCYP2D6 substrates (bupropion inhibits CYP2D6) → ↑ levels of some antidepressants/antipsychotics/beta‑blockers
- arrow_rightAlcohol: may increase neuropsychiatric effects; avoid heavy use
Is Bupropion a controlled substance?
No. Bupropion is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
BOXED WARNING: Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults—monitor closely.
How to remember Bupropion (PTCE mnemonic)
WELLbutrin = WELL for mood + smoking quit — bupropion is an NDRI. No sexual SE/weight gain BUT seizure risk; avoid in eating disorders.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant also sold as Zyban for smoking cessation — same drug, two brands, a frequent exam point.
Bupropion FAQ
What is Bupropion used for?
Bupropion is used to treat depression, smoking cessation. Atypical antidepressant for major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder; some products are used for smoking cessation.
What drug class is Bupropion?
Bupropion is an Antidepressant (NDRI) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Bupropion a controlled substance?
No. Bupropion is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Study guides that cover Bupropion
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
Pharmacy math cheat sheetthe five calculation types the PTCE asks
What changed on the 2026 PTCB examthe new domain weights for 2026See all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Bupropion the way the PTCE asks it
RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).