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Fifteen years ago we received a message from J. in Danville, New York about her antidepressant–generic Wellbutrin (bupropion). She said:
“I have been taking Budeprion XL 300 mg for three months instead of Wellbutrin XL 300 mg. I find that I am easily upset and cry very easily. Sometimes I feel aggressive. I also have short, stabbing pains in my head. Taking the brand-name drug (Wellbutrin) helped me feel the best I have felt in twenty years–not depressed and able to enjoy being with my family and friends.”
That letter started a saga of woe and intrigue with the Food and Drug administration. When we published J’s message in our syndicated newspaper column, we started hearing from other people with similar stories. At first it was dozens of letters. Then scores. Eventually hundreds of people wrote to say that Budeprion XL 300 and some other generic bupropion products were not working as well as brand name Wellbutrin.
Not only were the generic antidepressants ineffective at controlling symptoms of depression, they were causing serious side effects! Patients who had done very well on brand name Wellbutrin were reporting anxiety, severe headaches, sleep disturbances, night sweats, low energy, disorganized thinking, anxiety, tremors and deep depression on generic bupropion. Some people became suicidal, even though that had never happened before.
The FDA Dismisses Concerns About Wellbutrin (Bupropion):
We sent these messages on to the FDA. The answer from executives at the agency was that this was all a tempest in a tea pot. These complaints were all psychosomatic reactions (headache, anxiety, irritability, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, tremor, mood swings, panic attacks, depression, suicidal thoughts, etc). A highly-placed FDA staffer insisted that such side effects could not be brought on by the generic drug. Budeprion and Wellbutrin were supposed to be identical.
After five years of arm-wrestling the FDA, we learned that the agency would request removal of Budeprion XL 300 and some other generic bupropion products. At long last the FDA admitted that there were problems with the absorption of these generics. They were not considered “bioequivalent.” Here is a post we wrote years ago describing the whole sordid affair.
Patients Vindicated! Generic Wellbutrin Withdrawn
Fast Forward to Bupropion 2017:
We had hoped that the problems with generic Wellbutrin (bupropion) were behind us. Officials at the FDA seemed more vigilant about approving this generic product. Sadly, we started to hear from readers that they were experiencing problems. Here is another story from 2017:
Q. I believe you helped reveal the generic Wellbutrin (bupropion) failures several years ago. Is there any chance that there are still problems with some generic pills?
I have chronic fatigue, for which I take bupropion. About eight months ago, I started having bad nausea every single day. I tried everything, but the only thing that helped was Dramamine, which made me too drowsy to function. I even tried lowering my dose of bupropion, but the nausea didn’t go away. (My morning dose stayed the same.)
I read a recent news article (Bloomberg) about the differences between generic and brand-name drugs. I realized the release mechanism of my morning pills might be the problem. I take two bupropion in the morning, get nauseated and crash around midday.
I’m convinced that the pills are dumping the active ingredient in my system far too quickly, causing that rollercoaster side effect profile. It started when I got a new job and thus, a new online pharmacy that sent a different generic.
After that insight, I switched to a longer-acting version and I haven’t been nauseous since. Does the FDA do testing for this type of problem?
A. We alerted the FDA to problems with generic Wellbutrin (bupropion) back in 2007. It took five years for the agency to acknowledge there was a serious problem with some slow-release bupropion formulations. Although these drugs were removed from the market, we have continued to receive complaints about certain generic products. The FDA doesn’t test samples submitted by individuals.
Fast Forward to Bupropion 2021:
Here is the latest complaint about the generic formulation of Wellbutrin (bupropion):
Q. Are you still running tests on generic bupropion? I have a feeling mine (150XL) is not working properly. It is marked A101 on each pill. I noticed a significant change in mood and a return of my symptoms after I was switched to this product. I had been taking a different bupropion 150XL generic.
A. You are not the only reader to report issues with this generic form of the antidepressant Wellbutrin XL 150. Another person shared this comment:
“When the manufacturer of this generic drug was changed, I started having a lot of preventricular contractions (PVCs). When I went back to the original manufacturer, the PVCs stopped! The pill that triggers PVCs is imprinted with A101. How should I report this problem?”
The FDA runs an adverse event reporting program called MedWatch. We have have been badgering the agency about the absorption characteristics of this generic formulation of Wellbutrin (bupropion) for about 14 years. So far, though, the FDA has not taken any action. Reporting problems to MedWatch might get the agency’s attention. You can find it through a simple online search for “MedWatch” or try this link.
Fast Forward to Bupropion 2022:
Q. Is there still a problem with generic Wellbutrin? I take bupropion for depression and am getting no relief from my most recent prescription. I wonder if the manufacturer is not doing a good job. Do you have any advice?
A. It never ends! After 15 years you would think that the Food and Drug Administration would be far more careful about approving generic bupropion formulations.
Judging from our email and the comments posted on this website, the FDA has let down its guard…again. We suspect that the “slow-release” formulation with some generic drugs is not working the same way as the brand nameWellbutrin.
Other Readers Complaining about Generic Wellbutrin (bupropion)
Inez in Preston, MD:
“I have been taking Wellbutrin for years. Of course insurance required a change to generic bupropion. I tried it and it DID work. My pharmacy changed to a different manufacturer. The pills even looked different.
“It was bupropion XL. After a week of headaches, nausea, vivid dreams, etc. (felt like withdrawal; like I wasn’t even taking it) I realized that is the only change and symptoms started a day after the change.”
Carolyn in Colorado:
“I had been on Wellbutrin for 20 years or so. Bupropion or what ever that pill is had an horrible effect on me. It took a year or so to find the right one in the first place. I have tried what they call bupropion and had a horrible time. It also smells like sulfur which I am allergic to.
“Tried another which did not work. Horrible. I am having a terrible time not wanting to end it all. I feel that I can not make it and just want to leave. Why mess with something that works?”
John in Texas reports a similar situation:
“Reading these entries is rather alarming. I have been taking the round small bupropion XL for 2 years. I experienced a drastic improvement in my bipolar 2 depressive symptoms.
“Within the last 2-3 weeks of taking the same dosage, but a new manufacturer, I am having suicidal ideations. These thoughts are persistent. I have never considered thoughts such as these…ever! This manufacturer was just approved. It’s an oblong, white pill. Anyone else out there going through anything similar?”
Laura in Arkansas feels blindsided:
“I feel like I’ve been blindsided by the manufacturers of name brand Wellbutrin. I used to take it and it was affordable. Now, I have no option. It’s too expensive to use. The drug companies get you used to using it then jack up the price so high nobody can afford to pay for it. Thanks manufacturer of name-brand Wellbutrin XL.”
Can You Believe the Price?
We checked with our local chain pharmacy. The cost for one month’s supply (30 days) of brand name Wellbutrin XL 300 was $1,836. GoodRx states that the average retail price is $1,873.04. Yup, you read that right. That means each pill costs over $60. Put another way, a year’s supply of brand-name Wellbutrin XL 300 could cost a depressed patient over $20,000.
The original developer of Wellbutrin was Burroughs Wellcome. When that company was acquired, the drug became the property of GlaxoSmith Kline, now known as GSK. More recently, the drug was acquired by Valeant, a Canadian drug company.
We checked with PharmacyChecker.com. This organization compares prices. They say that Canadian pharmacies charge roughly between $1.16 and $2.26 per pill for the branded version of Wellbutrin XL 300. In other words, a three-month supply would run between $104.47 and $203.74. Shipping is extra. But compared to over $1,800 for a one month’s supply, those prices are dramatically different.
The Canadian Option:
We have created an eGuide to Saving Money on Medicine with tips on how to use generic drugs wisely. There are also legitimate Canadian pharmacies where you can buy brand-name drugs at more affordable prices. Access to this online resource may be found in our Health eGuides section of this website. You might want to share this article with friends and family even if they are not taking Wellbutrin/bupropion.
Share your own experience with Wellbutrin (bupropion) below in the comment section. While you are at it, please let the FDA know if you have had problems with either Wellbutrin or bupropion at their MedWatch site. We told executives at the agency that we are once again hearing about problems with this antidepressant but we are not sure whether they are really paying attention. So far they seem pretty unconcerned.
Cara
I have been on Bupropion SR 200mg distributed by Epic for a year and was doing great. When I got my latest refill I noticed the pills looked different (now have a YH on them) but they still said Epic so I didn’t think anything of it. A month later my depression is back, and anxiety is through the roof along with sleeping and stomach problems.
I called the pharmacy. and they confirmed the pills had changed and Epic is using a diff manufacturer (Yichang Humanwell), and the old ones that worked for me (Batch ndc 42660) are being discontinued. So now I’ve got to start over and try to find a new generic that works for me.
It’s so frustrating to finally find an anti-depressant that works only to have to go through the whole trial and error again with specific generics.
Lana
My name is Lana T. I too have been taking bupropion 150 mg and was doing great on Sandoz generic brand but now the pharmacies here in Oklahoma say it’s not available so I have tried several generics. The last two I’ve tried have smelled like sulfur and they do not work. They make me very depressed and I cry all the time. I’m so tired of availability being regulated by cost!!! I’m pretty sure that’s the problem now. Finally I found a brand that worked great for me and now it’s not available here and these other brands are making me very sick!! It is so frustrating to have other people like the pharmacies in charge of my wellbeing! Something needs to change. We should have the option to pay a little more for a generic we love rather than be forced to take medication that makes us ill. If anyone has found a way to get the brand I love, PLEASE let me know. I’m so frustrated with the whole process
My doctors have even prescribed Sandoz brand only and the pharmacies still refuse to make it available to me.
Barbara
After having my femoral nerve damaged during a hysterectomy, and trying several drugs, Wellbutrin xl150 was a lifesaver. That was since the late 1990s. Never had any problems with it.
Then in 2024 I got a notice that Express Scripts was no longer covering it. For my plan that was $35 for 3 months. Now at the pharmacy it is extremely expensive.
I took 2 months to slowly come off it. The nerve pain came right back, making sitting or lying down very hard at times. Buproprian gave me anxiety when I tried it. So now I might look into acpunture for pain relief.
Lee
Name-brand Wellbutrin XR made me very highly functional for 3 years. Back in 2008, I changed jobs and got new insurance, which caused me to switch to the generic Bupropion XR. Within two months I was basically bedridden and on state disability. It was drilled into me that generic versions are identical with name-brand drugs. I stopped taking it but never fully recovered.
A year ago my doc wanted to try again, so I went with generic Bupropion SR 100mg. Almost immediately, it worked amazingly well. Then, Rite Aid filled it with a different supplier “Solco Healthcare.” The pills were cheap-looking and reeked of rotten eggs. Again, within two months I was practically bedridden. The mean pharmacist refused to smell the pills and said they cannot obtain from a different source (“We have to take what they give.”)
After almost 20 years on psycho drugs, I go by the following practice: stick to the old meds (lithium) and avoid extended-release meds, as they are too hard to replicate. And remember, it’s not all in your head and is not your fault. The generic drug market is a sham. Also, try not to bug pharmacists and techs, as they are overworked beyond belief and can really ruin your day.
Nancy
Yup . . . Same .. . . Pharmacies have been changing manufacturers on me. And for me, I finally figured out that the Slate Run ones work well. Now, the problem is, the pharmacies I have gotten it from then say (after filling it once) that they can’t get it anymore. Frustrating . . . but more than that . . . in my case, scary!
Ashley
I thought Slate Run stopped manufacturing bupropion xl 150. I had been on that for years with no problems. Come January 2024 my pharmacy told they stopped producing it so since then I have been trying different manufactures and have had no success! I am so frustrated because I was doing so well on the Slate Run manufacturer brand
Sue
Hello, Nancy,
I have just found out that SlateRun is manufactured in China!!! Slate Run is only the distributor. They have to use an American distributor to dispense here. I was so upset. China scares me. Just wanted to let you know this.
Melb
I am so sick from the change from white pills to pink ones at my pharmacy. Nauseated. Angry, irritable and trigger temper resulting in yelling. Ugh. I feel terrible. The last time they did this I ended up in the hospital and said that I developed colitis. I feel awful.
Ella
I was part of the original 2012 generic Wellbutrin complaints; at the time I started just buying the name brand for $400 a month. Thankfully, for the past years I’ve been on the generic. It has worked well. However, this last time I filled my script something is off. The pills are the small white ones, but look slightly different than last month’s generic (must be a different manufacturer), and I’ve been depressed, unable to focus, feeling so down. Glad that it’s not me but I cannot believe that there are STILL issues going on with this!
Christine
On one hand, I am glad to see these comments and know that I’m not alone. On the other hand, I’m scared as heck because my depression has come back full force, and it’s so hard to get through the day. I was taking the small round buproprion 300 XL, and it helped me tremendously. My latest prescription is the oblong pill, and it isn’t working at all.
Josie
I’ve been taking generic Wellbutrin XL for 5 years, and it is the only thing that has helped with my major depression. Never had a problem with it until now, when the manufacturer has changed, and all of a sudden it’s completely ineffective. My insurance won’t cover the name brand, and I don’t know what to do. I am so upset and angry.
Anna
I have always taken Wellbutrin XL until this year 2024. I have a new insurance company, and they would not pay for brand name Wellbutrin XL, so I tried the Bupropion HCI. The Bupropion HCI is not working. I have taking the Bupropion HCI for several weeks. My anxiety and depression have increased to the point that I feel like I’m not taking anything. I want to cry at everything, good or bad.
A fellow co-worker told me that she quit talking her Bupropion HCI because the Bupropion HCI was not working for her. She felt no difference. I have been dizzy and nauseated but I couldn’t figure out why until reading this article and now I wonder if the Bupropion HCI is the reason. My doctor wanted me only to take the brand name due to the history of Bupropion HCI not working but my insurance will not pay for the brand name. I am so frustrated!
Cheri
I’d been on Bupropion XL for years & it worked great! Then it stopped working. After 6 months of playing Russian Roulette with meds that made me sick, I gave up & told my dr that I’m not trying anything else & just put me back on it. 10% benefit was better than nothing.
My latest refill was a different brand. And it was the brand I had been taking for years & within 2 weeks I was a whole different person.
The most common generic here is Lupin & it’s trash. Not only does it not help but it also breaks my skin out.
Actavis brand works great but I can’t find it anywhere. I have 9 left & am so sad that this is going to end in 9 days & I’ll be back to crying on the couch all day.
GodHelpUs
I have taken Bupropion for so long I cannot remember when I began. I have struggled (researching for any information on manufacturers that work). I finally found Actavis/TEVA to work and have jumped through a million hoops (calling multiple pharmacies, etc.) to find one that can order it. Now they say they cannot order or get a date of when it will be available again. I cannot find out online if it’s being discontinued. Having tried so many other manufacturers (ones currently being offered by nearby pharmacies) and them not working, I’m anxious as to what to do. I have not been able to find a professional in my area to give me advice. Please pray!
Kim
Wow, I’m so glad to know it isn’t just me! I tried to switch generics about 6 years ago and got HORRIBLY sick and finally found that the Par Pharm 300mg worked for me. I’ve been taking it ever since, even if I have had to call or drive to different pharmacies and special order to get it.
Now I find out they are discontinuing it, and I refuse to be a guinea pig, risk getting sick by trying other generics which, from all these comments, I’m guessing MOST will make me sick! Totally beside myself – this is so wrong! I will order from Canada, the cheapest I can find, if hopefully my doctor agrees to send the prescription, and if I continue to keep my job. I feel so badly for anyone who doesn’t have the financial means to do this also. Just horrible, all of it.
Donna
I was on 100mg Wellbutrin generic for 6 weeks. I had bad side effects. Insomnia, anxiety foggy sweating. I went on after the death of my mother. I was her caregiver. 4 years of falling. 3 hospitalizations. I lived with her my whole life. Had the best aides and doctors. Got Hospice. She died 2 months ago. I saw my primary who made housecalls to visit my mother. She died age 94. I asked for the antidepressant. I am a Type I diabetic. Sugars were high. I called pharmacist to get off on a Sunday. He told me to stop& I read side effects on internet. I was vomiting the next day & had tremors like Parkinson’s . I pushed through it & prayed. Slept peacefully that night. Felt so much better. This generic is bad. I have anxiety which I take Tranxene when needed. This drug is out of my system for one week. Terrible experience.
Donna
I began taking Wellbutrin SR in the late 1990’s. At some point that was switched to Wellbutrin XL. Both were effective at suppressing my depression, and I noticed no unwanted side effects.
In 2017 my psychiatrist went into private practice and I switched to a doctor who prescribed generic Bupropion XL. After that I began to experience severe anxiety and waves of severe depression. Now I am required to use a mail order pharmacy who gets their generics from an ever-changing variety of different manufacturers, so I never know which I will get. I tried to stop taking the Bupropion XL because it felt like it was doing me more harm than good, but that makes matters even worse. Now I have stomach upset, headache, depression, anxiety and significant insomnia, which I never had on the brand name Wellbutrin. My doctor says these are not caused by the medication but are my imagination working overtime. Funny that my imagination is synced up to Bupropion.
Denise
So glad to hear “Me, too!” I took 150 XL Bupropion from (only) PAR Pharmaceuticals for over 10 years. It worked great. Then 6 weeks ago, they discontinued it. Since then, I’ve tried Rising (horrible reaction, like taking poison), Epic (equally horrible reaction), Accord (not good).
I finally ordered the brand Wellbutrin from Canada at about $50 a month, but had to wait 10 days to get it. I was worried I would go through withdrawal with no option so I tried Slate Run, and for 12 days it was tolerable, then it turned on me and felt horrible. The inactive ingredients for most of the generics are junk, terrible chemicals that a lot of people can’t tolerate. (Of course!). Just received the brand from Canada. Starting it tomorrow. From everything I hear, that should be the answer.
Anita
They discontinued Parr? I did not know this. My pharmacy tells me nothing but said they ordered it, and it did not come in.
Lisa
Wow! I thought it was just me… Been on Bupropion for years. I actually felt like a normal happy person for first time in my life. Then the past few months I’ve felt very different, pretty negative and depressed. The color of my pills changed too. Maybe it’s time to try something else. All these years i wouldn’t have wanted to change it at all. I was ok. But lately I have been thinking about itI and I’m glad i found this site, and other people feeling as I do.
I’m going to come back later, need to TRY to sleep.
Faith
I’m so grateful to find this. I am using EPIC, and I am not okay. I was on Sandoz for years which was amazing. I had to switch pharmacies for insurance reasons about a year ago. They had a different brand, but it seemed to be okay, so I didn’t even take note, really- just noticed the pills were a different color. But then about 5- 6 months ago, I started to notice a difference in my moods, daily habits becoming harder, suicidal thoughts popping back up, etc. I don’t even know what to do. My psychiatrist said I could request a specific generic brand from the pharmacy, but I saw online that Sandoz was discontinued in the US. So, I don’t know what to ask for.
R
I’m glad I found this. Over this past weekend I received my generic bupropion RX and noticed that the pill looked different. I thought nothing of it until today– I’ve noticed a stark decrease in effectiveness since I started taking the generic manufactured by Slate Run. I will be reporting to MedWatch as suggested, but it’s disheartening to learn that this is a DECADES-long problem.
Davey
Similar experience here. 15+ years on Sandoz bupropion 200mg SR bid. Worked like a charm. Decades of depression/anxiety lifted and didn’t return. Now can’t get Sandoz brand. Replaced with Epic brand. Noticeably inferior results. I thought I was taking the same pill when I started Epic. Epic brand looks almost identical. Same color, size, “E” logo on one side, but the imprint on the other side is different. Sandoz imprint:”1111″. Epic imprint “411”. (Very tricky. Deceptive??) Initially, I thought I was unhappy due to the disturbing state of affairs in the world. Eventually, after weeks, I looked closely at the Epic pill, and then discovered the subtle difference. Don’t know how I’m going to handle this.
Magenta H
I am questioning my generic Bupropion HCL 300mg. I have been on it for a little over a year, and it has worked wonders. This past month I was switched from a white pill to a red pill. The red pill says 189. I have noticed over the past two weeks that my symptoms have been returning along with terrible headaches. This morning I took 2 white 150mg pills that I had from before I moved up in dosage, and within an hour I am starting to feel “normal”
I know this isn’t in my head. I literally could feel the dark cloud lifting and a more positive feeling taking over. Before today my social shutdown was so intense that I couldn’t leave my house. I was having dark thoughts and feeling hopeless. I haven’t felt that way in a year.
There has to be something different between these two pills.
Lana
I too have had a terrible time with the different generics of bupropion 150.
The ONLY generic that works for me is Sandoz!!! The other three I have been forced to try, due to pharmaceutical contracts with the pharmacies, have smelled like sulfur. They have all made me more depressed. I have been searching and searching for the Sandoz brand. I went as far as contacting the manufacturer and was told there is not a shortage of their brand.
I’m so tired of our pharmacies telling me they contract with the cheapest brand generic drugs to make more money regardless! Just when do the consumers matter? We are the customers and should be treated as such!! We matter!! If anyone finds the Sandoz brand available, please let me know.
Pat
I was on Cipla’s generic Bupropion hcl xl 150 mcg through my pharmacy. It worked so well, and I was completely stable for 2 years. Thin in January 2023 my MCO plan changed their mail order supplier to another pharmacy. The generic Bupropion that it uses is not effective at all. I had to contact my pharmacy manager through my MCO, and they were able to locate one single pharmacy in my area that could order the Cipla generic Bupropion…I also tried my local original pharmacy’s generic brand, which also was ineffective.
It is obvious to me that Cipla’s generic Bupropion is the most effective…the FDA should be ashamed that they allow these bogus generic mental health medications to remain on the market without testing and shutting them down.
Cassidy
Hi Pat! I am also taking the Cipla brand and just found out that they discontinued it. I’m trying to see if you know of any pharmacies that might currently have it available.
Chris
I also just received word from my pharmacy that Cipla has discontinued manufacturing Bupropion. I am concerned, as this is the one generic to which I actually didn’t have a negative reaction.
Paige
I recently had the same issue. 2 years ago I went through multiple generic brands with the biggest side effect being hair loss … bad! I finally found CIPLA and was great for 2 years. I can’t get an answer as to what has happened. Is it no longer available? Pharmacies here say they can’t get it. I tried the Actavis brand. On it now, and it is horrible! Hair loss is so bad!
Rachelle
I just started Taro-Bupropion XL three days ago. I’m now lying in bed in so much pain. I’m so bloated that I look pregnant, and I’m having intense upper abdominal pain that comes in waves, feels like contractions. The side effects have been wild but this one caused me to call the pharmacy to ask if there was wheat in the pill, as I have a sensitivity. Apparently there isn’t but she suggested I switch to Wellbutrin, as many people find it makes them feel less sick. So I’m going to try that and hope I feel better soon.
Joni
Me too! When CVS switched from Cipla generic Bupropion to Slate Run Bupropion all of my symptoms returned. I’m using Accord Bupropion now from another pharmacy and still feel as depressed if not more. It’s awful that the generic manufacturers can get away with a formulation that does. not. work. And the FDA is sleeping on it. This could be a life and death situation for some. Thanks for your advocacy.
Michelle K
GSK, the manufacturer of brand Wellbutrin, has a $5 rebate program! If your insurance company does not cover brand then get a pre-verification form sent to your Doctor by the insurance company . The prescribing doctor will write the prescription stating “ brand as medically necessary” then your insurance company HAS to pay for a portion. Once they do that simply go to Wellbutrin website , complete the form amp; it will auto generate a discount card you give yo your pharmacy! $5
Jennifer
My pharmacy told me the generic might contain “vegetable oil,” which is legally allowed to be peanut or soy oil. I’m violently allergic to peanuts, so they found a source that didn’t have vegetable oil among the inactive ingredients. This month’s refill is from a different manufacturer/distributor, although the pill looks the same. Does anyone have a way to find out the inactive ingredients in a particular generic?
Margie
Not $5 any longer. Last year WELLBUTRIN XL with the Savings Card was $15 for a 90 day supply. This year its now $207. Nothing has changed as far as insurance, but the Pharmacy is having issues entering the savings card info all of a sudden. Still beats the initial cost for brand. Makes me wonder why there is a 7 days’ wait with the local pharmacy and why they refuse to call to get it done right.
Demphna
I have been taking Wellbutrin XR 300 for nearly 20 years. The brand worked well for my anxiety and suicidal ideation. About seven years ago, my insurance carrier turned down even my doctor’s request for the brand. Why? It costs too much. Even though the generic is ineffective and increases my anxiety exponentially! The pharmacy my store is using for their generic Wellbutrin went bankrupt, and that particular form of Wellbutrin has an added benefit of increased irritability and aggression for me. Good Lord, why can’t we get what we need?!
Val
Hi -I have been on a form of Wellbutrin (300mg XL) for over 20 years. I had trouble about 6 years ago with Bupropion 300mg XL. Thank God I had just read an article about generic Wellbutrin causing problems because I really thought I was going crazy. I had these horrible mood swings (like over a 20-minute period). I was irritable, lethargic, had suicidal thoughts (which had never had) and cried easily. The world seemed like a terrible place.
I switched to a different generic (can’t remember which one), and I was fine. I reported what happened to me to the FDA and got a nasty letter from the pharmacy I bought it from saying, “There is nothing wrong with our drug”. BS!!! I switched to a different generic, and everything was back to normal. My pharmacy put a note in my info to not give me any Bupropion from that pharmacy.
Fast forward to 2023; here we go again. For the last 3 months I have been feeling like I did when I took that “bad” Bupropion years ago but a milder version of feeling crazy so I kept telling myself, “It’s just you. You are going through a phase….” Wrong!!! I am positive it was that particular generic made by Lupin. Am trying the new bottle I have. Keeping my fingers crossed. It is not all in your head! The release mechanisms on some of these generics are terrible. There is something wrong with a healthcare system that makes you pay over $20,000 a year to not feel suicidal!
Carl
Hello all, Wellbutrin XL user here. I was put on it in 2019, but eventually discontinued.
In the last year I started back on it but was issued the dreaded round generics that give off a foul odor, and I realize they don’t seem to work as well as those did back in 2019. I ended up finding one of my old prescription bottles from back then, and figured out that it wasn’t the brand name, but a different generic manufacturer: Cipla USA. They still make the generics that I took back then. If you search Cipla USA bupropion, you should find a specific web page.
Now one more warning: Cipla USA’s homepage has been hacked DO NOT GO TO THE MAIN HOMEPAGE, doing so could result in getting a computer virus or malware. Thankfully, this issue doesn’t seem to apply to the specific Cipla USA webpages for their bupropion generics. Hopefully this can help someone out, and I plan on switching back to this when my current prescription runs out.
Carla
I had been taking Wellbutrin XL 300 mg for 12 years without side effects. It worked great for me, depression in remission. Insurance stopped covering it so changed to Actavis brand of bupropion XL 300 mg. After approximately 3 weeks I developed insomnia which progressively got worse. Within a 24 hour time frame I developed severe anxiety, paranoid thinking, stabbing headaches (worst headaches in my life), and constant crying.
Realized it had to be from the generic brand and, thankfully, I had saved 3 weeks of Wellbutrin so switched back over to it. It took several days before I felt fairly normal but after a week of Wellbutrin I still have headaches, though not as bad. No more anxiety or crazy thinking. Sleep better but not as good as it was yet. So now I have to get Wellbutrin from Canada, paying out of pocket.
But I can afford the $63 a month, not $1,800 to 2,000 in the states!! Criminal, what the company charges here compared to Canada. My sister takes bupropion ER which supposedly does not have the same problems as the XL. She has no problems with it so I’m considering switching to that so insurance can cover it here. I’m wary though, for good reason!
Emily
And now after everything, they have discontinued the brand Wellbutrin entirely. This forces those of us lucky enough to continue with the brand name (me for 6+ years) to very suddenly go with a generic that not only DOES NOT work as well for reportedly many people, but also seems to cause worse symptoms than it alleviates.
Brenna
Been on generic 150 xl for years, no issues. About six months ago, suddenly I had anxiety, depression, ringing in the ears, hair loss, fatigue, and continuous GI upset and awful insomnia…thought it was a midlife crisis. I’ve had blood work, various tests, couldn’t find anything wrong. That made the depression worse.
My Dr. last week decided to up my bupropion to 300 xl, after trying several add=on depression meds. (too many side effects). Before starting the higher dose, I was reading on the side effects on the 300 xl, saw issues on the generic. Checked the 150 xl I’m currently on. New 300 mg prescription is also same.
I have not started the 300, too scared to. I’m winging myself off of the 150 mg. No major withdrawals yet. I have no medical insurance right now, I can’t afford the name brand. This medication has been the ONLY antidepressant that has helped me up until 6 months ago. I am so relieved to find this thread. I finally feel like I’m not going crazy. Thank you all, for sharing your story.
Please, if anyone is doing ok with another generic, and what pharmacy they are using, please respond. (Sorry so long).
Sharon
My son (33) was put on this drug for severe depression that had just come on him. 6 days after taking the drug he took his own life. This was three weeks and a day ago. He had never had been depressed enough to take his own life. Wellbutrin took my son from me and took a father from a son.
Kate
I was on Wellbutrin, worked fine. Then onto Sandoz and again no problems. I’ve been on those two forms of this med for 15+ years. They switched me to Solco generic last week. Physically, I feel awful every time I take it. Headache, Abdominal Pain, PVCs, Nausea. I’ve called at least a dozen pharmacies, and the majority carry only Solco or other poor generics that have already been mentioned.
I’ve looked up the inactive ingredients on at least 15 generics, and only 2 come close to Wellbutrin. This is compromising our mental and physical health, and it’s unacceptable. Generics are not the same as the original meds. And some Pharmacists are not helpful at all. One told me to go to their competition, even though they’re not in my network. Why should we have to fight so hard to get the best meds? The safe meds.
Jamie
Your story is mine exactly! Been taking Sandoz bupropion sr 200mg for 13 years. Was changed to YH brand by Slate Run pharmaceuticals and feel terrible. Been on it for 2 weeks now, and the headaches are more than I can handle. I called Sandoz, and they have stopped making it. Would love to know a manufacturer comparable to Sandoz.
Cheri
Hi Jamie, so sorry to hear that you struggle the way I do. Honestly, nothing compares to the name brand, but who can afford $2,000 a month?!
Sandoz was a pretty close 2nd though, and after they stopped producing I worried that I might not find a new brand to replace it. However, I’ve found that Teva works about as well for me. *I think a few years ago the FDA shut down their production of this bupropion so they must be on their “Ps &Qs” since bringing it back.
Btw: I’m on the SR twice daily, not the extendended release
Sue
Has anyone found a replacement solution for Brandname Wellbutrin? It was the first drug that was helpful in controlling my depression. Sandoz was an effective replacement but also discontinued. All other generic versions make have made me sick. Suggestions appreciated.
Katy
Have you learned anything since? I have been calling around and cannot find Mylan, and Sandoz is now OBSOLETE. I got the ingredients for Sandoz. I am amazed at how different the “binders” are in all the different generic versions of Wellbutrin” I got SOLCO, and it is NOT good for me. Any insight appreciated!
Chris
I was given a SOLCO brand after years on bupropion with perfect results. I have never felt worse. It was frightening. Side effects were terrible. Memory terrible, racing thoughts, unable to carry on intelligent conversation; couldn’t remember right words; paranoia and hearing sounds. Afraid to go back on it. Was also on Diazepam and had reaction to it as well. After checking inert ingredients, time-release additives seem to be causing my issues on both medications. Found compounding pharmacy that can order both bupropion and diazepam and just use on inert ingredient to give controlled release m. Diazepam if $30 for 30 pills and bupropion is $60 for 30. Am almost afraid to try. Side effects were insane on the last round of generics!
David
Which two are the only ones similar to brand name?
Lizzy
Like so many here, I have major reactions to each of the different manufacturers of bupropion. The white oblong makes me physically ill -vomiting and diarrhea. I won’t take it anymore. I spoke with my pharmacist, and they made a note in my file. As for the coated ones, I have passed them without them even dissolving. I’m currently having digestive track issues, and I can’t help but wonder if bupropion is causing it. There is no comparison to Wellbutrin. It works for me without any side effects. But my insurance will not pay. Bupropion is NOT a bio-equivalent and they know it!! Why do we need to suffer with adverse side effects while the FDA seems to drag their feet and won’t admit the issue! Years and years of complaints by thousands of people !!! We suffer from depression, not ignorance!
SomeGuy
I’ve been taking generic bupropion XL 150 mg for several years. My latest 30-day bottle has an overwhelming rotten egg odor. This the first time I’ve noticed such a strong odor, and it’s a distinct change from previous refills. The manufacturer is Accord. I talked to the pharmacist, and he said it always smells like sulphur, but he is willing to replace the remainder of my supply and potentially fill my next prescription with pills from another manufacturer.
My wife takes 300 mg bupropion made by Par Pharma, and there is no detectable offensive odor. As far as effectiveness, all I can say is that I do feel more depressed and irritable if I forget to take it for a day or two, and I get nauseated and have digestive issues for a day or so when I start taking it again. Maybe these effects are typical, but I am debating whether it is worth taking at all.
At the least, I will endeavor to try switching manufacturers. I think it’s absolutely shameful that these generics are not better regulated, and that the costs vary so wildly from country to country, and between name-brand and generic formulations. Consumers reasonably expect generic formulations to have the same effectiveness and active ingredient chemistry as brand-name medications. Obviously they don’t. Also, I believe I read that the timed-release mechanism of brand-name Wellbutrin was not a coating, but a patented undigestible capsule with a small hole for slow release.
It begs the question: if the capsule and delivery mechanism was unique enough to be patented, how can a slow-release coating possibly be an effective equivalent? Are the generic coatings even tested by the FDA to ensure the active ingredient is released at close to the same rate as the patented capsule? I would like to see real world experimental data from testing the release rates between brand-name Wellbutrin and the various generics. I strongly suspect that the various pills are nowhere near equivalent in release rate, and that’s assuming that the active ingredients are identical.
Diane
I was on brand wellbutrin xl 300 mg for over 20 years. My insurance won’t pay for it anymore. I tried the generic bupropion xl 300 from Lupin and had such bad side affects. I was so manic! I couldn’t sleep and was bouncing off the walls. My anxiety also increased. I just wanted to die! I didn’t realize it was the medication at first. I didn’t know what was happening to me. My dr put me back on brand wellbutrin, and I was back to normal. Now my insurance won’t pay for it at all. My dr wants to try another generic wellbutrin. I’m scared and upset! I’m afraid I’ll be manic again. I don’t know what to do. If there’s a way that I can get this brand medication in Canada I would. Has anyone else ever got wellbutrin xl 300 mg from Canada?
Nancy
I have been on Wellbutrin XL brand name for over 35 years with great results. In retirement I was able to get it at a fraction of the cost from Canada. Due to a recent hospital stay, my only option was to take the generic, so I gave it a shot after I returned home. Within 2 weeks I wasn’t myself & depression was creeping in. Immediately went back to brand name & after a month I am doing great again. Just called Canada & they are out of stock of the 150mg due to manufacturing delays!!. I have experienced this before & solved it by going to a different pharmacy. This time it is not to be had anywhere & I will be hoping & praying I will be able to get it by the time I need it. This is so not right!!
Carol Parker
I took name brand Wellbutrin XL 300 mg. for 20 years. When I was forced to go on Medicare, the name brand was not covered. I feel like a lab rat with depression because bupropion and many other drugs I have tried did not work. Both Cigna and WellCare programs replied “SORRY” to my physician. Medicare thinks they know more than my personal physician who sent documentation that bupropion does not work for me, and the other drugs I have tried do not work. GENERIC BUPROPRION IS NOT BIOEQUIVALENT to name brand Wellbutrin. Playing with people’s health to make money is pathetic.
Ronnie
I take 400 mg of Wellbutrin SR.
The insurance company stopped covering the brand, and I had to get generic.
I tried numerous manufacturers of the generic, but found it did not work. I became extremely depressed. One of the manufacturer’s generics caused me to get extreme headaches. Weird headaches. Like a buzzing feeling. So I quit taking it altogether.
Brand Wellbutrin SR was the only thing that relieved my depression. The Dr. wrote a letter to the insurance company, and they agreed to cover brand name Wellbutrin SR. I started to feel better in a few weeks. And I don’t get the weird headaches from the brand.
The generic drug industry is a cesspool. The FDA trusts the manufacturers to certify their drugs meet the bioequivalency and other standards. Many of these companies are not in the US. They are in China and India. Some of these companies have no ethical standards.
Natalia
Hi there,
I have been on generic Teva XL 150 pill for 2 months. I felt great!
3 days ago I refilled my prescription, and the pharmacy said that generic version is out of stock, so I have been taking brand name for 3 days now. It started with a few brains zaps, and now by day 3 I can’t even stand up without feeling like the room is spinning out of control. Brain zaps come with every blink. I am having a hard times typing this…
Is brand version this much more potent? Why does it feel like a withdrawal?
Sharon
The round white pills (generic Wellbutrin 300 XL) make my stomach hurt and cause miserable discomfort and diarrhea. I noticed that the oblong white tablets did not. The maker of the pills I need is Actavis, and I cannot find them in pharmacies any more. Is this another “supply chain” issue or some big pharma power play?
Nate
I’ve been on first 150 XL and then 300 XL for the past year. I’ve had 3 different generics in that time. 2 of them were fine. But 1 of them gave me debilitating anxiety to the point where I was scared even to leave the house. There is definitely a huge difference between some of the generics.
Pamela Sue
Did you find out any information, I need my Actavis! The other ones are horrible!
Tracy
Did you find your Activis generic? I can get it through mail order Maxor Pharmacy my insurance covers it and they have no problem getting it. Hope this helps
Kristi
Twice my pharmacy has switched from the Bupropion XL manufactured by Cipla to the same generic but manufactured by Slate. Each time I have spiraled. I haven’t tried the brand name (Wellbutrin), but I’m curious to see how it differs from Cipla’s Bupropion XL.
Manufacturers definitely make a difference for me.
Lucinda Davis
Would be helpful to inform us, as to which generic bupropion (NAME) was not suitable for you?????
Liz
I was trying to taper off this med safely, as my insurance carrier started insisting I change pharmacies or receive via mail (Thru intermediary Save-on, another nightmare). So found your research which rang a bell- e.g. today took bupropion XL 150 first time in 3 days and am having palpitations occasionally. But also had recently noticed feeling increased near-tearfulness in general, and overall sadness, though I was taking as prescribed at that time. I’m glad of my decision to taper off and will continue to do so. Slowly of course, safety first. I’m an RN who comprehends the potential risk of not following up with my PCP, and only started it related to peri-menopausal concerns, increased emotions, etc. Thank you for your article.
Laurel
Am currently taking Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (XL) 300 mg, supplied by Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC. I have been fighting with insurance to get me back on the brand name Wellbutrin, but they keep denying my request.
Since taking this generic brand I have been on edge, crying, and unable to sleep. I also feel excessively bloated (very odd) and don’t fit in my pants. I don’t know if it is the manufacturer or what. I am so confused and have no idea what to do. I had been using a discount code through my pharmacy for the Wellbutrin for years and suddenly received a letter saying that my insurance would no longer cover it. Three months later, and I feel absolutely horrible!
Cherrie
I’ve been taking bupropion sr for 20+ years. I’ve been given Solco (currently taking), Sandoz, Actavis, Watson, Brand Wellbutrin SR, and Teva. There is a definite difference between generics for me. Some cause extreme anxiety. I’ve gotten hives from a few, PVCs from one, and trouble breathing from another. I call around to see which pharmacies can get the generic I want/works best for me, then have Dr. write the script for that brand only. It’s terrible that this med varies so much. It seems to be the release mechanism.
Gretchen
I was recently switched from the small round generic (YH102) to the oblong generic made by CIPLA (I on the back, 13 on the front). I am experiencing mood swings and bouts of rage as well as uncontrollable crying. I have filed with the FDA, and I called my pharmacy to get a new refill with the YH102 brand. I’ve asked them to mark on my file never to send me the CIPLA brand again. (April 2022)
Ali
This is exactly what is happening to me. I feel like I’m back on a high dose of steroids.
Tamar
I was just switched to the oblong ones as well, and I’m pretty sure they’re causing extra anxiety and heartburn, but I don’t really know how to prove that.
Misty
I was on the name brand in the early 2000s. Worked amazingly! Went back on it 2 years ago and got name brand again. I tried 300xl 2x 150sr and still major numbing, hot flashes, hair loss and numerous other issues. Suicidal thoughts when I was on 300. Moved myself to 150sr and pharmacy gave me generic by mistake. Took ’em, and man, I have a life again!! I don’t know what the GSK company changed but Wow! I won’t go back the name brand again.
Janis
What manufacturer was your 150 sr pill that worked?
Tracy
I have been taking Bupropion XL 300mg for years. My Dr. increased my dosage to 450mg which initiated a new fill. I noticed I started crying all the time, getting extremely agitated and angry. Feels like I am having medication withdrawal, headaches, nausea, tremors- completely feel “OFF.”
Reached out to my Dr, and she decreased me back to 300mg. Still having the same reaction. Researched drug manufacturer today, and it’s Slate Run. I have never had a fill with this mfg, always Accord and no problems. I’m super-disappointed that trying to get my mental health in check has caused worse problems.
Rachel
Anyone have any experience with Accord Pharmaceuticals generic Wellbutrin XL 300? Just got changed from Lupin Pharmaceuticals to Accord. The Lupin brand was fine.
Amanda
I didn’t realize how often pharmacies will switch manufacturers. I’m a mess on Accord’s 300mg. Not only am I depressed but I can’t think or make decisions. I’m having a really hard time at work because of it. I don’t feel right.
Jennifer
I have experienced this same issue. I have been on Accord 300XL for about 6 weeks. I feel “off,” am severely lethargic, head/brain feels funny, nauseated, chills, night sweats. I have requested to go back to Par Pharm, which no local pharmacy carries because it’s too expensive.
Marie
I’m so relieved right now. Thank you SO much for sharing this!!! I realized something was off with me and recalled my prescriber, reiterating that I’m crazy sensitive to the slightest changes so manufacturer switches probably wouldn’t be wise. But I’m convinced that my ADD-derived short-term memory dysfunction combined with parenting 2 kiddos has officially rendered me incompetent!!
I’ve probably shaved 5 years off of my life with the anxiety I’ve incurred having let them switch manufacturers for my Wellbutrin a few weeks ago!!! 😩 The nausea is so bad that I was convinced I was pregnant, dying, diseased and/or bi-polar up until now-wondering why I feel like the world is ending- why I’m so unbelievable to anyone else in the medical field around me. Yaaaay!!! I’m vindicated!!!
Matt
I’m required by my health plan to use the mail pharmacy and generics. In April, my Buproprion SR 150 tabs were switched to Slate Run manufacturer. They smell like sewer gas. I’ve had ones in the past that smell slightly of sulfur but these are overwhelming to the point I can’t take them. I’ve received a replacement bottle, but they smell just as bad. My doctor needs to find a different option for me.
Diane
FYI – Wellbutrin Brand costs are much better in Canada! Call them on the phone, or go to website. Wellbutrin 300mg XL for 90 days is less than $200 USD!! Doctor has to send them prescription, and allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. It is SO worth it!
Z
Am U.S. based and getting meds filled with regular chain pharmacy. I have been on generic bupropion XL @ 300mg for a year and a half. For me, Par brand worked great barring some normal side effects. Pharmacy switched to Slate Run, and suicidal ideation/depression came back like a freight train, from zero resilience to well, everything! Got put back on Par and was happy again- note was put in to pharmacist “no Slate Run” for me. The most recent refill was Teva/Actavis which hasn’t made me feel depressed but I feel like things are more effort again. I can’t focus very well on important things, and motivation is low. The other side effects that I had with Par are almost none…is it filled with sugar!?
I now am trying 150mg Slate Run. I’m debating going back to the pharmacy to see if they have a different manufacturer. On the other hand though, I’m testing a theory: I think maybe the release system with the XL is the most important part of the medicine, and maybe with the SR it doesn’t matter as much. So with a manufacturer I know didn’t work for me with the XL version, it will be interesting to see what happens on the SR version. With a lot of medicines the fillers/binders, etc. may not matter as much but for a medication that relies on a specific timing schedule I think the fillers/binders/coatings matter a lot. Glad to know there are others out there dealing with similar issues, and it seems like we are all having different reactions to different generics- which means that no, not all generics are created equal, and it may take some trial and error to find a generic that helps. It’s too bad that the manufacturers aren’t held to better standards (like none of my medicine bottles/accompanying papers list the ingredients…why is that?)
Alison
I have been taking Wellbutrin XL for at least 9 mos. I had to discontinue it due to massive hair loss. Mood wise it did a great job but overall the side effects from antidepressants are exhausting. I did notice headaches but had not associated them with the medication at the time. Medication appears the only solution for depression from the psychiatric position.
Co
I have been on the generic for 12 years
I believe it saved my life.
I tried so many before this one finally worked.
This makes me wonder if the name brand could have been better.
I have alot of headaches
I can hardly afford the generic 300 mgXLat 80$ for 90 days.
Walter
Well, what’s the bottom line?
Rachel
Lupin Pharmacy generic Wellbutrin is working just fine for me.
Jackie
I’ve not had relief using the generic form of Wellbutrin. Here, the brand costs over $2000 per month! Thanks to Peoples Pharmacy, I now order it from Canada at a cost of $112.00 for 90 days. How is it possible that I can pay so little for brand name from Canada and pay an insane amount in the U.S. ? I take the Wellbutrin XL 300mg.
Jessica
Besides notifying the FDA via the Adverse Action database, perhaps patients should also start sending reports/complaints to the following: Medicare and their insurance company; their State Insurance watchdog agency; their State boards for certifying pharmacies, physicians, and labs; as well as letters to their State and Federal Senators and Representatives asking why the drastic difference in the cost and quality of drugs in the USA vs Canada and other areas of the world? Bottom Line: Current US laws protect the Drug Manufacturers NOT the patients, and the FDA has no power or authority to remove bad drugs from the market. It is a red herring agency designed to make US citizens think our meds are safe. It is run by former BIG PHARMA EXECUTIVES who work diligently to protect and promote their former employer’s interests. Congress is complicit in protecting the profits of Big Pharma, by passing laws preventing Medicare from negotiating lower drug prices, as well as preventing patients from buying prescription drugs from Canada, Mexico, etc. Congress’ allegiance is to their biggest campaign contributors, NOT the health and well being of their so called constituents. We are just disposable pawns in this sordid game of ever escalating costs and obscene profits. I doubt you will print this, but if Congress, state agencies, and legislators start getting hundreds, if not thousands of letters and reports on this issue, maybe they will finally realize they have created a Big Problem, and do something to FIX IT!
Kim
I took a generic bupropion and felt amazing but at week 4 I got hives. Has anyone had any luck with changing to brand or a different manufacturer to get rid of hives?
Brooke C.
Jessica, yes, absolutely!!! I don’t know how to start something like that and spread it via social media. That’s not an area that I have skills. But I will totally write letters, support and spread that! Going to look into some of the info you posted now.
I have been taking the sulfur-smelling generic for Wellbutrin SR 150mg for about 1.5 years. During this time I started having major “brain fog” that I attributed to everyday life. Unfortunately, it just continued to get worse with time. It got so bad that I was avoiding going out since I often couldn’t remember names, along with really basic things.
I switched to the generic Wellbutrin instant-release about a month ago. This “brain fog” is starting to clear. I have an appointment with a neurologist since my Dr. was concerned and referred me to have some brain scans. ALL because the generic is not equivalent to Wellbutrin! My insurance would end up paying more for all these visits than if they just paid for the name brand in the first place. Which we all know does not cost that much to make, which is why Canada has it so much cheaper! Big Pharma is taking advantage of any baby, child, teenager, college student, parent, adult, grandparent, retiree, elderly and even those in hospice care.
Has anyone had these issues we are all discussing with the instant-release generic Wellbutrin?? Most people are posting about the SR and XL. I am doing wellso far after switching from the generic SR to the generic instant release. Maybe it does have something to do with the delayed delivery system of the SR and XL generics? Or do the SR and XL have fillers that the instant release doesn’t?
The instant release version is working well for me. It’s taken 3x a day which is tough but well worth it!
Mamie C
Generic Wellbutrin caused PVCs, severe anxiety, unsteady gait and tremors. The brand name caused none of these. The problem is I can not afford to buy the brand name in the USA. I took the brand name for years before generic was available and the cost at that time was reasonable. Why are drug companies permitted to charge these prices on old drugs?
Ed
Why are they permitted to charge 100x more for the U.S. compared to Canada or any other country!! We have to change the way the U.S. works with these companies and how much they charge us.
Libby
When I was taking this drug, my pharmacy seemed to change manufacturers every month. They told me the corporation buys whatever is cheapest. I noticed the difference and finally started getting name brand from Canada with great results. Fortunately I was able to do that and have great compassion for those who do not. My big concern is that if this happens with Wellbutrin, what about all of the other generics? I simply don’t trust them but what do you do? It’s all wrong.
Kay
I had been on the original Wellbutrin years ago and felt it helped me with little to no side effects. I suffer from periods of depression & have accepted that I always will. I do not stay on anti-depressants for more than a year & stay off for a few years.
I’ve suffered the side effects of the other generics after Wellbutrin was no longer covered by insurance. I started this new generic fall 2020, 150 mg xl with headache initially. I had a bit of aggression a few hours after taking but that subsided. I bumped it up to 300 mg after it didn’t seem to do much for my depression.
For 2 months, I’ve been taking 300 mg xl & again, it’s not doing anything. But the most alarming thing is that I am having difficulty with word recall. It’s not just random. It’s occurring a dozen times a day, every day. I cannot recall names & words. I usually have a decent vocabulary.
I’m 55 years old. I didn’t equate this with the possible side effect of taking this generic until today. It scares me. If I have early dementia that’s one thing but I’ve had enough side effects & little good from anti-depressants in the past to make me think it’s the generic bupropion. I’m going to phase off it & see if anything changes.
I’ve talked to doctors in the past when I was having adverse effects from past generics. My concerns were never validated. Years later, when I saw that the FDA had recalled them, I thought “See, it wasn’t in my head.” If nothing improves with word recall, I will see a neurologist.
Tina
Off and on generic Bupropion for several years due to sad or low mood. Tried Wellbutrin as Zyban a long time ago to quit smoking. Made me smoke more, and I went into a dark mood with aggression. Years later, off and on for sad took Bupropion 150 xl. Just the past few years, I noticed they’re different effects each time I filled the rx. Turns out different mfr has very different effects. Actavis: great mood, but lasts a month. Have bad headache and taste in my mouth and constipation. Lupin: dark mood, panic attacks and hair loss. Accord: zero effect whatsoever. Maybe some increase in heart rate. I don’t know what to do. No other antidepressant has helped, except maybe mirtazipine, but it’s like a flat mood, and you get fat since you crave sugar. And even if I can deal with the Actavis side effects, the pharmacy runs out and swaps mfr without telling you. Why are they different?
Tessa
When I get a generic of bupropion xl 300 that works for me, it really works! The problem is that pharmacies never stock the same kind for long. Par was like taking nothing. My psychiatrist agreed and added a note in my script. It was a struggle to find a pharmacy that didn’t stock Par, though. Or they would say they could get me a different one, and then I would pick it up and it would be Par again. It had a profound effect, so much so that when my pharmacy switches generics on me I get full blown panic attacks. I wish it was more well-known that this stuff matters so pharmacies could be better about it.
Rose
I started off on Wellbutrin brand name and loved it for many years. But for whatever reason my insurance changed it to the generic. I didn’t attribute it not working well to it being a generic. I just thought I had taken it a long time. So I was switched to a different antidepressant. But after about 6 different ones back to Wellbutrin I am.
I started on Bupropion xl150 and felt good. So went up to 300xl. After a few months I had horrible ringing in my ears. I didn’t have that before. Then I started breaking out in a rash. The longer I took the Bupropion the worse the rash got. Then the pharmacy switched manufacturers and went from a round pill with a coating and black print to an oblong tablet no coating. After a few weeks the rash and ringing in my ears started going away until it was all gone.
So I was on that for years until recently the pharmacy switched manufacturers to Slate, and I can’t take that one nor accord. I think it’s the coating. I found a pharmacy with that I hope will help my rash go away. But the brand that has usually worked well is lupin. Not everyone carries it… so I’m either taking it along with having a rash and ringing in my ears or trying to hunt down this one manufacturer. Ugh!
Kim
I have been taking Wellbutrin for the last few years and it is the first anti-depressant that has really worked for me. But since the change to the oblong pills vs the little round tablets, it feels like it isn’t working as well. Which is upsetting because I really don’t want to play Russian Roulette with medication again to find one that works.
Jessica
I have had similar issues in the past. My insurance will not cover the name brand. The out of pocket cost for a 1 month supply is $2100 at CVS.
I thought I was passed all the issues with the generics but it has started again. I noticed within the first week that it was not working because my depression symptoms returned with a vengeance. Thankfully I have enough self awareness that I realized the issue and contacted my doctor. Unfortunately most of the local pharmacies only carry that generic brand.
For the foreseeable future, I will need go back to calling pharmacies to find out which brand they carry.
Pam
I have been on Wellbutrin (or generic) for over 20 years. I had several hospitalizations and was told I would be on this medication for the rest of my life.
I am now taking Bupropion XL 300. I have been depressed and anxious for a long time on the generic. It doesn’t work for me. I’m scared to inquire how expensive Wellbutrin brand is. I’ve heard it is very expensive. I will see my primary soon, but I cry every day. I’m retired and on a limited income.
Scott
I read your post and hope you are doing better. See all of the info on this site (People’s Pharmacy site) regarding ordering the Wellbutrin brand name from Canadian pharmacist – looks like it is much, much cheaper. Best wishes, Scott
Gail
I tried Wellbutrin (probably a generic) years ago, and it gave me bad heart palpitations, so my doctor switched me to something else. It’s on my list of medications I’m “allergic” to.
Joan R
Back in the 90s, after my Father died, my mother, 80y/o at the time was on a B/P med. I suspect now it was a diuretic. She was having constipation and just not thriving. Her I.M. doctor at the time said she was depressed and put her on Wellbutrin. Not long after that she was declining in health abnormally, in my observation. She wasn’t able to move and later told me she was seeing herself circling the foggy drain.
Very long story short, this doctor refused to admit her to hospital, saying something about Medicare protocol! Thanks to a public health nurse, we got her admitted to ER. They took blood samples and were surprised she wasn’t having a heart attack because her potassium was very low. A new doctor put her on new B/P meds/no diuretic, and she did fine for another 15 years. Ironically, it took a paramedic telling me years later, that Wellbutrin enhances the diuretic which made it all make sense!
Linda
Taking Wellbutrin XL or SR or bupropion or budeprion generic versions over the past decades has been a rollercoaster ride! Too many problems to go into here right now, but definitely can relate to people saying the various generic manufacturers’ versions seem different in both good and bad effects, as they have with me. Lately am wondering about these issues again, because of headaches, nausea, dizziness, possibly less good effect, etc.
Thank you for these articles, and for the readers’ comments, all of which has been helpful in trying to sort out these issues. And yes, it shocks me to see the outrageously high name brand prices, and even some of the generic prices, charged to the insurance! No way would I be able to afford the name brand meds, nor some of the generics either!
Bonnie
I have had similar problems with generic Wellbutrin. Availability of specific generic manufacturers varies by state law even within the same pharmacy chain. In RI I could request a specific generic that worked for me but it was not allowed in FL. You had to accept whatever was in their formulary. Thanks to your article on Canadian pharmacies I am now taking name brand Wellbutrin. Unfortunately the Wellbutrin SR 150 does not seem to be available with some pharmacies, and the XL 150 over a 24 hr period is not as effective.
Thank you for advocating on our behalf with the FDA and informing us about Canadian options.
Dee
My doc put me on just 100 mg of the generic SR version a few months ago. At first I noticed a difference. It seemed to just barely pull me out of that deep dark hole…at least enough to function like a normal adult.
But then it seemed to stop working. So my doc upped me to the 150 mg tablets. This is where the tremors started. I’ve now weaned myself from it. I literally looked at the pills and researched the shape, markings and color online because I thought the pharmacist maybe screwed up my script.
Now I’m beginning to see that it’s the generic that’s the problem. Sucks that the real Welbutrin works so well, yet none of us can afford it.?
Honestly thinking about going back to Healthy Happy Hippie supplement called “Joy Filled” . It worked ok and I didn’t have to deal with these stupid headaches.
Tina
It is amazing that I found this site by chance. I have taken bupropion xl 300 mg for awhile now with no problems. Recently I refilled my script at Walmart and was given a totally different drug. It was oval shaped with a number on it. I have always taken a round pill After taking this pill for a few days the side effects were unbearable. Nausea, lethargic, moody, and snappy. I finally put two and two together and realized it was the new manufacturer drug. I had to transfer my script to another pharmacy, and luckily they had the correct one since Walmart didn’t.
Barb
I have taken generic Wellbutrin 300 mg XL since 2016 with no issues. About 2-3 months ago I started having daily nausea and nothing would help. Had very low energy and stomach pains. I went to my doctor, and he couldn’t find anything so he sent me to a GI doctor. After a little research I found people talking about having issues with generic versions of the 300 mg XL and that last year the FDA had recalled the generic version from a specific manufacturer.
I called my pharmacy, and the last time I had my prescription refilled they had changed to Slate Run Pharmaceuticals. It’s just too much of coincidence that I started getting sick when I started the new prescription manufactured by Slate Run. Today my Dr. is calling in a new prescription brand name Wellbutrin only. I stopped taking the generic today, and I’m hoping this solves my issues. I cannot believe this gets past the FDA.
M. L
I’ve taken Wellbutrin and generics for over 20 years. I had the original Budeprion experience. Awful, as my dysthymia crept back. Read about it and had my doctor switch it, which seemed to work. Jump to now. My health care plan recently switched to Bupropion made by Slate Run Pharma. I have been feeling like my depression had regrown, but it has been so long I am just again connecting the dots. Saw a “reddit” on slate run bupropion, and some folks were having troubles with it not working well. Has anyone else had similar poor performance with the Slate Run generics?
There seems, also, to be a case of different generic brands working for different people. Stands to reason, as there are so many antidepressants in general. I should not have to roll dice with my mental and emotional health so insurers can make even more money. I just want something that works properly and is affordable.
Anita
I wrote the FDA about the sorry Slate Run generic Wellbutrin. It is horrible and does not work. I was taking 200 mg of the SR version twice daily. I switched back to the SOLCO company version which has worked for years……now I am having major problems with this one. I am trying different doses to see it helps. How can a person know for sure that any of the generics are right? It is infuriating. I don’t know if it is just my depression issue or the generic pill!
Jennifer
I have been on the name brand Wellbutrin XL for about 20 years. I had been using a special “coupon” program through the Wellbutrin manufacturer for over 5 years. The other day, I found out that they were no longer offering the $5 copay for Wellbutrin through the company after 12 refills. I have been trying the generic Buproprion and feeling worse than ever. This includes muscle spasms, restless leg syndrome, migraines, fatigue, depression, anxiety, etc.
The cost at my pharmacy for the name brand is $1900! This has worked for me for 20 years, and now this is what I’m going to have to pay to be functional? This just doesn’t seem fair at all. Something needs to be done about companies who misrepresent that the generic is the same as the brand name.
Jennifer
Taking Par Pharm bupropion hcl xl 300mg for a few years now but never really felt any different. Recently realized why: I’m not digesting them. Whatever they’re coated with, my stomach just can’t break it down.
Donna
Taking Par Pharm 150 bupropion (generic wellbutrin). It is like taking a placebo and worse, depressed worse than taking it. Awful and doesn’t work. Took the name brand for years, and it was amazing.
Julie
I have had no luck with generic forms of Buproprion. The only thing that works for me is the brand. Years back when it became unaffordable, I started getting my Wellbutrin XL from Canadian pharmacies. Fortunately I had a doctor who was willing to send my script to Canada back when it wasn’t so common and has continued to do so ever since, since I need the brand to feel my best. A 90 day suply costs me about $100 out of pocket.
Danielle
Actavis’s bupropion is like taking a sugar pill. It does nothing. I was taking the Lupin version. It worked quite well, and then my pharmacy just switched it without warning. I called them back and demanded Lupin, which they are ordering for me.
Alec
My pharmacy switched my XL 150 pill (which reads WPI 331) to a different brand that has a smaller pill (which reads 150 XL), and it is completely ineffective. I also get bitter metallic drainage down the back of my throat after taking it. What the hell is the FDA doing?
Melinda
Yes, there is a problem with Bupropion then and now (20 years ago and now). It will cost me $1,300 a month for Wellbutrin – 30 tabs. Seriously, when will the insurance company and drug companies care about us? We are the ones taking the generic crap they are making. I would like to know – do they take the generic or name brand? The bioequivalence of generic Bupropion needs to be revisited but until then why are we not allowed to take the name brand at a reasonable price?
Shane
Yes, the problems continue. I was first prescribed 150 MG of Bupropion, then tapering up to 300 MG by taking two pills. I didn’t pay attention to the manufacturer of that one, but it sure got my attention when I was switched to the Anchen formulation of Bupropion XL 300MG. It was like I had stopped taking the drug entirely. My symptoms returned with a vengeance. After running through that 30-day supply, my pharmacy apparently switched to a different generic manufacturer for the drug (Cipla/Invagen). I wouldn’t have noticed at all if it weren’t for the difference in size, shape, and labeling of the pill. The symptoms again subsided after taking this pill, but I didn’t make the connection until once again the pharmacy switched back to the Anchen formulation. Miserable again. I’ve filed a report with the FDA, but maybe you guys can bend their ear again as well. The bioequivalence of generic Bupropion needs to be revisited AGAIN.
Michael
I have been using Bupropion SR 150 mg per day for 17 years. I use it for smoking cessation, and it has worked fine until about 3 months ago. I received a refill manufactured by a private pharmacy. Within 2 weeks I began to crave a cigarette. I don’t believe there was any active medication in the pills. I checked online and found a long history of complaints including ineffectiveness. Now I’ve learned that Mylan pharm has stopped production. This only leaves a group of Indian-based manufacturers with a list of complaints too high to number. Why does the FDA not support the consumers. These companies are growing exponentially by producing ineffective products. I am currently back on a low dose nicotine patch which is effective but has my blood pressure way up. Is this how it ends? The tobacco companies were more reputable.
Jen
Texas
I have been on Wellbutrin XL 300 mg for well over 20 years. A few years ago when I switched to a high deductible plan where we paid retail prices for prescriptions until we meet our deductible I tried a generic form (bupropion) in the face of $1800/month price for the Wellbutrin. It did not work. It didn’t even seem like the same medication. I began to spiral into the clinical depression that had been under control for so many years.
I can not understand why they are allowed to call this medication a substitution for Wellbutrin. It seems like the manufacturers of Wellbutrin have left out a key ingredient (like your Aunt Sally’s delicious cranberry sauce that you can never seem to get right).
Joel
Los Angeles
I am a physician who has suffered from depression most of my adult life.
I can tell you from personal experience that there is definitely a difference between brand-name Wellbutrin XL compared to its generic counterparts. I have personally experienced the dramatic difference numerous times. If you share my experience, I highly advise you contact the FDA and report the dramatic difference.
I believe the difference is in the way the active ingredient gets released throughout the day. This is a huge difference for medications that work on neurotransmitter activity in the central nervous system.
The FDA should not allow marketing of products that are clearly different in their efficacy and side-effect profile.
We need to take action. This is not a joke. Peoples’ lives depend on it.
If you have similar experiences, please inform your doctors, your health insurance company, the FDA, and your representatives in Congress.
Kathleen C
Phoenix, AZ
I’ve taken bupropion XL 300mg for three years. Had no problems with the Par Pharmaceutical formula. Due to insurance change, started the Blue Point Pharmaceutical formula with side effects that include vertigo, nausea, headache, fatigue, and tinnitus. I’ll be changing back to Par brand and reporting this experience to Blue Point and the FDA!!!
donna
Pa.
2019….PAR PHARM bupropion drug is not working. It’s terrible!! It’s not me!!!
Robert N.
St. Louis, MO
I have been taking Bupropion SR for years. My doctor changed the dosage. With that, my pharmacy changed the mfr. to Dr Redoy’s Lab. They supply Bupropion SR 150 mg as a purple round pill imprinted with SG 175. I have never noticed an odour with previous dosages. Dr Redoy’s Lab Bupropion SR, 150 mg, has a strong sickening sweet smell. This smell cannot be right. I am returning it to my pharmacy.
Dee
South Carolina
I am a healthcare provider, and I am certain there are differences among generics. I had been on the Anchen version (A102) for years and had done well. About a week or two ago, my formulation changed (which happens with all my meds from time to time) to Actavis (142). I am NOT WELL. I am having recurrent, negative thought processes, suicidal ideation, and am barely able to function. I have never had trouble when changing generics of other drugs in the past. I find it a danger to switch formulations of a medication that is so relied upon for stability.
D
I’m also having negative impacts from Actavis 142 – something is not right there.
Felecia
Charleston, SC
I have found that my pharmacy changes generic companies almost every time I get my RX filled for 3 months. Several years ago I told an older pharmacist that the generic Bupropion xL 150 was not working right. He laughed at me and basically told me I did not know what I was talking about. It made me so angry I wrote to the FDA. They sent me a letter saying they test all medications and were sure there were no problems with my medication. Then about a year later I received an “Opps” letter saying when they tasted the Bupropion I wrote about they found it was dumping all the active medication in the early part of the day so it was not extended.
I am again having symptoms withe the Bupropion XL 150 made by TWI pharmaceuticals. I was tearing up in the evening, having sad thoughts, etc. I decided to stop it and I feel better off of it than I did on it.
The thing that upsets me the most is, how many suicides have there been due to generic medications that are not being tested and we have no idea if they are working!
Kay
Texas
I was on Wellbutrin for about 10 + years and did fine and then they switched to Bupropion for the last 8 or more years and nothing has been the same. I have complained to the Dr and all they want to do is add on another antidepressant. Buprion does not work. I don’t know if its the pharmaceutical companies or the manufacture. I don’t know if one is better or not, I know as a consumer I am really tired of it. I have read so many reports by the FDA and news about the negativity of our generic drugs coming from foreign countries and I will not mention the two worst ones. Its sad that it comes to the cheaper prices can effect our health. I just do not think they are getting the formulations correct. I am not a professional, these are just my thoughts. We need to be more vigilant about things that affect our health. Thanks
Al
SC
I just discovered a Lupin 300mg Bupropion XL floating in the toilet after a bowel movement. Taken 24 hours before!
I have filed a complaint with the FDC, as obviously if the pill isn’t dissolving it won’t work.
I’d been thinking it seemed the medicine wasn’t working well- now I may know why.
TRob
Houston
I have been on various dosages of immediate-release bupropion off and on since 2008. My symptoms never improved but did not worsen either. My brother could not tolerate Wellbutrin 150mg XL and gave it to me in November 2018. It was the best I have felt in 10 years. So my provider at the VA hospital changed my formulation to Bupropion SA 150mg and then eventually to 300mg, when 150mg was not efficacious.
In my personal experience, the generic equivalents have not been as efficacious as the Wellbutrin brand in significantly relieving my depression. With a little research, I am only now discovering the discrepancy and the controversy surrounding the lower efficacy of generic bupropion as compared to Wellbutrin. All of these years, I thought I had treatment resistant depression. I have noticed that Actavis, a subsidiary of Teva, manufactures the generic bupropion that I receive at the VA hospital. I wonder whether the efficacy of Actavis bupropion is as poor as the efficacy of Teva bupropion. I wonder whether Teva has dumped its subpar bupropion on veterans’ hospitals. Having just learned, today, about these issues surrounding bupropion v. Wellbutrin, makes me angry because I feel I have needlessly suffered for the last 10 years with an inferior medicine because the VA was trying to save money.
Christa
Alabama
I have been taking Bupropion HCL 75mg twice a day for years made by the Mylan manufacturer. All of a sudden all my pharmacy had was Heritage manufacturer. It absolutely did not work at all. I have been having constant anxiety attacks and thought I was losing my mind. I have to use CVS for maintenance medications and they do not carry the Mylan brand of Bupropion but I can do mail order through CVS Caremark and get it that way. This is really a serious situation for those of us who rely on these medications.
William
New Hampshire
I have had problems with a Wellbutrin generic Bupropion. I have been on SR 150 by Sandoz 2x a day. It works well for me. My pharmacy stocked Sandoz more a few years. They suddenly changed to a different brand. I took the new brand for 3 days, and I felt terrible. I took it back and requested the Sandoz brand. Fortunately they were able to get it.
I have read where other people have had good success with the Sandoz brand. It
may not work for everyone but has worked very well for me and some others.
Lara
LOUISIANA
Six years ago I started taking two Wellbutrin, 150 XL, a day. It was a rough transition at first. I lost all appetite to the point that just looking at certain foods would make me puke. Within three months, I felt better than I had in years. I had been on SSRI’s for PTSD and depression before I started this. I can’t tell you what a different it made. My head was the clearest it had been in years. I know it is technically more for depression than anxiety, but this medication helped me get over my anxiety and depression enough to get out of bed and get my life back.
Ever since that time, I have had a continual struggle between generics and brand name. All I can say is that the differences between the brand and different manufacturers are basically like being a woman trying to find a birth control method that works for our individual needs. I was a pharmacy tech for years, and I was on the pre-medicine track in college. I say this to say that I know the generics are supposed to be “completely identical.” I used to believe that.
I have never ever had a problem with generics until Wellbutrin. Between my primary and secondary insurances, I was able to get the incredibly expensive brand name for about three years. The first time I was put on a generic Wellbutrin it felt as if I stopped taking the medication. I have had various pharmacists dismiss my complaints for years, acting just like the pharmaceutical companies did with your complaints. I have gone through all different types of manufacturers. My pharmacists have helped me with it for years, but I still can’t find one that feels like Wellbutrin. I know we are told to just live with it. On top of the mental issues these generics cause, we are supposed to live with the physical side effects too? Considering how long Wellbutrin has been on the market, I cannot possibly understand how the FDA has not worked out these issues.
The past year I have had to pay about $100 a month for Wellbutrin alone. That is the lowest we could get the cost using every coupon and loophole imaginable. I know that pales in comparison to the cash price, but that is an expense that is hard to bear. Wellbutrin changed their coupon in January of 2019, and the new one pays very little. I am in the middle of a divorce. I’m disabled from several back surgeries (after a car wreck nine years ago), and I am still unable to work. I am in the middle of my last semester of graduate school, and suddenly my antidepressant changes. I cannot tell you how much it has negatively impacted me. I know that if I could just get a few days of brand name in my system, all my issues would go away. I know that from past experiences. But that is impossible because I do not have $600 to spend on a month’s supply.
I’ve tried to switch from Wellbutrin to other “similar” medications, but there is simply nothing like it. On top of that, it is incredibly hard to switch from this medication to another without severe side effects.
I’ve never commented on anything online before, and I feel like I can’t express how time-consuming and difficult this entire thing has been. I just feel like the FDA and these pharmaceutical companies seem to forget the humanity of their consumers. I just feel like the production of mind-altering substances like this should be taken very seriously.
Larry
Chicago, IL
I have recently switched to Brand Name 300mg XL because I found out my brand name covers it. OMG, I can’t tell you how much better I feel.
Originally, I was taking generic XL (pill shows TL 102 on it) made by Legacy Pharmaceuticals. I knew something wasn’t right because after two months of taking it I felt worse than before I started it and I was constantly nauseated. I requested the brand from my doctor and he said we would try it and after, now about 3 months on the brand name I feel better than I’ve felt in 15 years. However, if I didn’t have insurance I would never be able to afford it. It’s $2000 a month retail! I agree with other posters that it is criminal to charge this much for a drug that is so old and the manufacture made their money on it years ago.
Betty
Texas
I have been searching for other people having issues with a change in manufacturer for Bupropion XL 150mg, and I’m so glad I came across this webpage because I thought I was going crazy!. I had been taking Bupropion XL 150mg ( green colored pill) for 12 yrs and felt amazing on it. (Suffer from clinical depression and diagnosed with PTSD.)
About 1 1/2 yrs ago my pharmacy changed the manufacturer for my Bupropion (the only pharmacy I can go to with my insurance). They did not tell me. I noticed that my pill went from a green color to a pink colored pill. I looked at the label and it said “Bupropion XL 150 mg” so I took it. The same day I started on new pink colored pill I started feeling an electrical brain surge or headache-type feeling, sobbing for no reason at all with high anxiety and fear. I told my Dr about it, and she said she only prescribed RX and does not control what the pharmacy decides to give me but she suspected it was a manufacturer change. Sure enough, I called my pharmacy and told them I was not feeling well on this new “Pink colored pill.” They told me the manufacturer had changed, and they will not be carrying the “green colored pill” by that manufacturer. I went back to my Dr, and she gave me a prescription fo “Name brand Wellbutrin XL” 150mg and told me it was going to be expensive but that’s all she could do. I took prescription to my pharmacy to get filled and they gave me Bupropion SR 150mg. I spoke to the pharmacist and told her my Dr prescribed me the name brand and they had given me a Generic brand. The pharmacist sounded like her hands were tied, and she could only give me generic brands due to the manufacturer their company is allowed to use and what my insurance allows.
Ugh!!! So frustrating and seemed everyone thought I was making this up. I continued to take the Bupropion XL 150 mg pink colored pill even though I did not feel 100% but something was better than nothing. Well, about a month ago a friend of mine introduced me to CBD Oil, and it has been a life changer!!! I continue to take the Bupropion XL 150mg pink pill with the CBD oil, 5 drops sublingual twice a day, and I feel Amazing!!!!
Wish the FDA would realize that generic or different manufactured pharmaceuticals are NOT created equal when it comes to people who suffer from a chemical imbalance which means they are more sensitive to any changes to their medications. I feel sorry for those who suffered and may no longer be with us because they could not take it and didn’t realize it was the change in manufacturer or they were not heard and suffered in silence. Depression is not easy, and forcing us to take a medication that does not work for some of us might not have a positive outcome for some.
Dorothy
South Carolina
I have been on Bupropion HCL SR 150 MG tablet from Mylan for years. I had never taken the name brand or Wellbutrin. Several years back I told my Dr that the Mylan tablet just wasn’t cutting it. I still had way too many, what I called “blue days”, wasn’t happy, didn’t want to do anything, see anyone, just wanted to be left alone and miserable. She added another medication that was supposed to go well together, sertraline, the generic for zoloft. It seemed to work pretty good for awhile, then started feeling the blues again.
The latest is that my pharmacy changed from the Mylan brand to Dr. Reddy brand. What a nightmare! Every day I had a migraine, which I suffer from as well, and I was completely sick to my stomach. This went on for months. Nothing else in my life had changed except this generic medication.
I go between 2 states, Michigan and South Carolina. I talked to the pharmacist in SC, explained my situation, and she said that the cause wouldn’t be the generic change. She treated me like I was nuts. I talked to the pharmacist in Michigan, where I got the Dr Reddy brand from, and she was very nice and explained that different makers use different “fillers” she called them, and that my body was probably having a bad reaction to that. She said she would put on file a note about the issue I was having and they wouldn’t use it again.
Well, still in SC, I had to get it refilled. When I called to request the refill, I spoke to the pharmacist and asked which brand they had, she said Dr Reddy. I told her I could not take it and needed the Mylan. She said they couldn’t guarantee it but would see what she could do. I called a different store in the same chain to see if they had the Mylan. She said they didn’t, and they wouldn’t be getting it back in. She wasn’t sure whether Mylan was no longer making it or if their stores just stopped using them, but it was being switched out to Dr Reddy only.
I got a text saying my prescription was ready. I called and asked which brand it was, as no one had contacted me, but it was the Mylan brand, so I picked it up. Now I am getting close to needing another refill and am worried about what I may end up with. Does anyone know if Mylan is no longer going to be making this drug?
I see a few postings talk about another brand. I’m not sure if that one will work for me or not, I’m not sure if I should contact my Dr to see if I can get the name brand, or switch it out for something else, but it sounds like I’m not alone in this terrible reaction in switching generics. Does it do any good to contact the FDA with problems. Is anyone on anything different that works well?
Laura
Houston
I started taking Wellbutrin ir over 20 years ago. The first week I started taking it I thought to myself, this is how normal people feel. It has been successful for me all these years. I have been able to accomplish things I could not before. It has eliminated my depression and helped my ADD. Now Wellbutrin IR has disappeared, the generics do not work and I am back to the spacey, fatigued and ditzy individual that I used to be, sleeping more than normal and not functioning. Why has this happened? Someone should have been protecting those of us who need this medication. I would really like some answers. Feeling abandoned, sad and helpless.
Valli
Florida
I was able to use Wellbutrin XL300 (brand) for many years because our insurance plan paid part of it. We switched insurances, and now I have to take the generic. Oh, what heck is this?
I have ADHD and OCD along with low depression. I am angry, agitated, and out of control. I have moments where life seems worthless, and I shake those off because, well I am 67, and why waste what life I have left?
I will see my Primary care physician tomorrow and will discuss. I am seriously thinking of sending the Rx to Canada. My son was switched to generic over ten years ago. He was out of control, and I read up on generic problems with this medication. I told him that I would pay for his meds out of my own pocket. (He now has it covered by his employer.)
How can these manufacturers be permitted to push these drugs through without due diligence on the part of the FDA?
AR
MO
I have been on Activas brand for 5 months and was doing great and they just switched generic brands on me and I have had headaches and fatigue and irritability I had one day left of the Activas and I did it and things were fine again there is a difference between generics!
Sarah
Brooklyn, NY
Hello, I have been on Bupropion XL 150 for eight years. It’s effects have been wonderful and changed my life. I tried to go off it 1.5 yrs ago and experienced confusion, short attention span, irritability, tightness in the head. So of course I went back on it. Recently my doc suggested I switch to an online script refill. Over the past six weeks I’ve noticed a steady decline in functioning similar to my previous withdrawal. I came home tonight and noticed the new script is from Lupin Pharma, and the old is from Actavis. I am going to get a new script with Actavis but it seems highly likely that a switch in drug MFR had a MAJOR impact on my treatment. That should not be the case right? Eight years and only great results to now facing symptoms similar to no treatment at all, while taking same drug by different MFR.
Chelsea
Al
Solco bupropion is like taking a sugar pill. I went from Sandoz bupropion 200 sr to solco bupropion 200 sr, I did not notice about getting a different generic for a bit. However, it suddenly become extremely difficult to wake up each morning, I couldn’t get going, stuck in bed, etc . I thought to look at the pills and that’s when I realized for a fact this particular generic is NOT acceptable.
I have fild a complaint to the FDA. I did some reading to learn more about the Solco distributed bupropion. I learned it is manufacturered in China by a company called Zhejiang Hisun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
I came across TWO separate warning letters that this manufacturer has received from the FDA. If you have the time, please scan through the letters.
I am just flabbergasted that the FDA has allowed this to continue.
Things like faking test data records by copying the same over and over so as not to have to record and test new data – that’s just a snippet vague example of what they were caught doing.
! Google “Zhejiang Hisun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. FDA warning letters” – even if you haven’t taken this particular generic , it is still very much worth the read as it directly correlates to bupropion generic issues Eye-opening and infuriating
A.V.
I had no idea anyone else had had this problem. The explanation provided makes a lot of sense. I had no problems with generics when I was taking 150mg bupropion XL, but when I tried to take 300mg XL at once (whether as a single 300mg XL pill or two 150mg XL pills), some generics caused severe grogginess starting mid-morning. I tried figuring out which ones caused it (not all of them did), but eventually I gave up and switched to taking 150mg bupropion SR twice a day instead.
Cassandra
Tampa
I’m not sure if this happening to anyone else. But before, my pharmacists were always agreeable to ordering in the Actavis brand (the only generic that doesn’t give me migraines). Now they are saying that Corporate is telling them that they have to go with whatever is cheapest that month. How frightening that we have to alter meds monthly to whatever is cheapest. BTW, it cannot be bioequivalent. I actually get HBP on the other generics, which is a measurable effect. Hence, the request for Actavis only.
Sharon
Tucson AZ
I too began to suffer depression when I first became an empty-nester. I tried to handle it myself, but I got more and more depressed as time wore on. I went to a psychiatrist and was prescribed Buproprion. It didn’t help very much, so my doctor kept raising my dosage. I was finally switched to a 300 mg XL generic, but I became increasingly more depressed as the weeks went by.
I finally decided to bite the bullet and pay the copay for brand name. Oh my gosh! The difference was astounding! It was like someone took blinders off my eyes! I had focus and energy. My mood was good. I was no longer depressed. I even gained some weight but that’s because food didn’t taste like sawdust any longer. I had an appetite again. Life was good for several years. Then I approached retirement age. My doctor suggested I revisit the generic formulation since I wouldn’t be able to afford the brand name under Medicare Part D. I had several rough weeks. Insomnia, dizziness, mood swings. But my doctor felt my symptoms would improve, given time and patience. So I stuck with the generic until I became depressed once more.
I finally told my doctor I refused to pay for something that was causing my depression to return and worsen. So I weaned off the generic Buproprion 300XL. Now I am not taking any meds, but am left living with a constant low level of depression. I can go back on the brand name but I can’t afford to pay for it. So I muddle through my miserable life now, taking it day by day. Sadly, I am a retired nurse. I had listened to many patient complaints over the years regarding the cost of medications, never thinking I’d have the very same issues after retirement.
The FDA should not allow generics to have such wide differences in absorbability and effect. 20% is too great. I’ve had many doctors beg me to not switch to ANY generics due to the unreliability of the physical/mental effects. I thought the FDA was established to protect the food and drug consumers in the US. It seems like they’re doing the opposite lately.
Susan
United States
Does anyone know why massive amounts of bupropion have been recalled the last six months? I can’t find a reason anywhere. Today I went to put away my rx I just got and saw that instead of the little round pills they were large oval pills with 142 on them. When I looked at the description on the bottle is still said they were supposed to be the round ones so I took them back to the pharmacy. It was an “error” that they hadn’t updated the label.
The pharmacist informed me normally this wouldn’t happen but given I was on 300mg bupropion xl he wasn’t surprised do to the difficulty they were having getting it, all the brand changes and having to have patients change their orders to 2 pills 150mg until they ran out of those as well. The reason for the shortage he said was a massive recall on bupropion 300mg xl starting 6 months ago. I asked if they bothered to inform their customers as I hadn’t heard of this and have taken it for years.
I was told they weren’t required to inform patients unless it was a class 1 recall that could cause serious injury to a patient and this was a 2 or 3 class recall so no notifications were warranted. He didn’t seem to know why the meds were recalled. After reading everyone’s comments I wonder why even more as I’ve been on this for years and thought it just wasn’t working as well for me the last year or that life just sucked more than normal.
I know the manufacturer had been switched before on me but I don’t recall when and wouldn’t have suspected it of being the cause of the symptoms I’ve been having as I know they are SUPPOSED to be the same. Now I wonder??? And why is there nothing, that I have been able to find, explaining what the issue with it was this year (2018) but I find issues from 4-5 years ago? This is frustrating!
Daneey
escondido, CA
Back in 2011 I started on brand name Wellbutrin. It was awesome. I had more energy, focus and was happier. Then I was forced to take generic version. Within a few days I had a stiff neck, splitting headache and had trouble swallowing. Something was definately different!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And the doctor kept telling me they were “equivalent.”
I was so shocked and angry about such a blatant disregard for an obvious TOXIC drug scam that I have never gone back to any pharmaceuticals, except when it’s PRN for pain. Even then, this experience made me lose my faith in pharmaceuticals and the ability of doctors to discern the difference between generic and brand names. I mean, really?
I wanted my doctor to say, yep, that is BS, I’m writing you a brand name because it’s medically necessary. Didn’t even offer. I guess I had to be an advocate for myself, maybe that would’ve helped, but it was the apathy and “oh well,” I guess it didn’t work and ignore the generic reaction side of it that totally turned me off.
Barbara
Southern California
Good morning! Today is August 14, 2018. I feel the need to share my experience with the changes made to my antidepressant, Wellbutrin. I was prescribed wellbutrin 300, and I’ve taken it (the oblong shaped, marked 142, Bupropion Hcl XI tabs 300 mg) for over 12 years. On August 3 2018, my pharmacy sent me a different brand or type of Bupropion Hcl XI. It is round and is marked ST300. I started taking this new brand on the 6th of August and have had the worst time ever! I feel so much rage! I am agitated and hate everyone and anything! How can this happen? I feel like I am in a downward spin and escalating!
Today I realized these feelings of rage began when I started taking this new Bupropion round pill marked ST300. I called my doctor this morning to inform her of my reactions and to enlist her assistance. She explained that many people react differently when pharmacies use a different manufacturer to fill prescriptions. I am so grateful that she listened and requested a change; back to the original medication. I will share my reactions, if any, once the medication is changed, and I start taking it.
My wish for all of you is this: Please speak to your doctors, and ask for assistance and pray that you will get well soon.
Barbara
California
Have been on Buropion XL 150MG x two for years (about 12+), then some seven or so years ago they didn’t seem to be working as well. My doctor added Prosaic (which didn’t change anything); and then stopped the Prosaic and added another 150MG of Buropion XL. Have been taking 450MG for five years or so. The pharmacies are forever changing manufacturers. I am loosing too much weight because no foods hold any appeal; having trouble starting and sticking with tasks; am forgetful; and feeling that emptiness that comes with my depression. Had my thyroid and Vit D levels checked, all is good.
Began thinking I may need to change antidepressants. After reading others’ comments above, I wonder if my system is just reacting negatively to the various manufacturers’ versions of Buropion XL. Is it even safe to be in the same medication for so many years? Is less ever more…meaning maybe ask my doctor about reducing my dosage.
Denise
North Carolina
I had a “breakdown” in 2014 and ended up trying to go see my daughter (in heaven) sooner than I should have. After 3 weeks in the hospital and a combination of therapies, my Doctor put me on bupropion XL. I took the oval shaped pill with the number 142 on it and have been able to function in society again. 6 months ago I switched pharmacies because my insurance changed and it was going to be more affordable if I did. The pill changed to a round pill. For three months I was completely spiraling down the wrong direction and even though of suicide. Along with headaches, dizziness, nausea and tremors it was as if I was not taking the medicine at all. It took me two weeks to realize the only thing that had changed was the new round pill. My Doctor called in a new prescription at my old pharmacy and luckily my “cash price” was way cheaper than the insurance price copay! Well new dilemma, my old pharmacy has switched to the round pill. I even contacted the FDA and they said it was impossible for this reaction to be happening. Guess I will have to get so suicidal again to prove a point. Frustrated
Wendy
Tennessee
I was taking the generic round version, and it was great. They switched me to an oval pill with 142 on it, and I started having BP spikes. My BP normally runs 90s/60s, and it would spike to 150s/90s. Felt nauseous and had headaches from only taking the new pill for 3 weeks. My GP changed me to a completely different drug as of today because my insurance won’t allow me to “pick and choose” which shape pill I take.
Mary
Texas
If a generic cannot be found that works for me, I will seriously consider buying the brand name from a Canadian Pharmacy. Which one is trustworthy? Thanks
Gail
USA
I take the Wellbutrin 300 XL from Canada and it is working fine. It is not a generic, they have generic, but I order the name brand. I had trouble with all generics in US. Last one even gave me auditory hallucinations. I use Pharmstore.com and have no problems at all. Use a Canadian pharmacy with a certication that they belong to CIPA.
Mary
Texas
FIRST: PLEASE MENTION THE MAKER OF THE GENERIC YOU ARE REPORTING WHEN POSTING. Yes to all of the above that has been shared.I am beyond despondent. Was on brand-name Wellbutrin 300 XL for 10 years. Woke me up out of a 30 year sleep. (Serotonin antidepressants did not work for me.) It seemed to stop working, so I discontinued taking for several years to try other non-med methods. I now really need to go back on for severe depression. Doc called it in, I went to pick up at CVS, the pharmacist almost almost fainted when he pulled it out of the bin, and immediately called my insurance to verify: $3500 for 90 days with insurance, $8700 without. I agreed to try a generic ($7 for 90 days, Cipla in India). Symptoms of nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue-crash in afternoon, hopelessness and despair came on within 3 days. Spoke with my docs and they were outraged. Endocrinologist said that what they were charging for the brand-name was as high as a rare chemo drug. Also, the research is over, it is a well-established drug, an easy formulation, and that this is criminal and complete price-gouging. So, I have been trying to figure out which maker uses the most identical “Inactive Ingredients.” Hard to do as they change with dose and whether regular, SR, or XL. Also when you look up makers, Par (is now Endo), and others are not even on the list of FDA approved makers. Here is the list. Which have you used? Do any work??
Thank you, Mary E
-Manufacturer: ACTAVIS LABS FL INC
Approval date: November 26, 2008
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: ANBISON LAB CO LTD
Approval date: June 30, 2017
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: ANCHEN PHARMS
Approval date: December 14, 2006
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: IMPAX LABS
Approval date: November 26, 2008
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: INVAGEN PHARMS
Approval date: August 26, 2016
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: JUBILANT GENERICS
Approval date: June 30, 2017
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: LUPIN LTD
Approval date: April 6, 2017
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: MYLAN
Approval date: July 14, 2010
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: SCIEGEN PHARMS INC
Approval date: April 12, 2017
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: SINOTHERAPEUTICS INC
Approval date: August 21, 2017
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: SUN PHARMA GLOBAL
Approval date: December 18, 2014
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: TWI PHARMS INC
Approval date: November 3, 2017
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3], 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: WATSON LABS INC
Approval date: August 15, 2008
Strength(s): 300MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: WATSON LABS INC
Approval date: November 26, 2008
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: WOCKHARDT LTD
Approval date: November 21, 2012
Strength(s): 150MG [AB3]
-Manufacturer: ZYDUS PHARMS USA INC
Approval date: January 17, 2014
Strength(s): 300MG [AB3
Kellie
Usa
I wish everyone would identify the manufacturer of the pills they are talking about, so that there was a more clear picture of the companies. I have just started talking SR by Solco and read that it is a chinese import and am wondering if my hands shaking and ear ringing would be as bad with a different generic. I had no idea there were so many companies that made/distributed these meds!!
Melanie
Michigan
I too stumbled across PeoplesPharmacy web site trying to find out whether Bupropion HCL XL 150 mg manufactured by Lupin Pharma was made in China because my therapist warned about generics manufactured there. None of the recent comments mention this manufacturer.
I literally just started taking it yesterday. I took Wellbutrin 11 years ago with excellent results. I don’t remember experiencing any side effects when I took it and today my throat started hurting.
Yes, #2 on the side effects list. Too soon to tell if it is going to help me. I was just wondering if anyone else is successfully using this generic? My pill is round and white with L015 on it. Filled by Kroger.
Sharon
Dallas, TX
Bupropion 150 XL stopped working for me – after decades of success with brand name and generic Wellbutrin. Now I’m being forced to learn about generic manufacturers. It could be the Par Pharmaceuticals product I took for at least 3 months, or the SciGen product (manufactured for Dr. Reddy) that was in the May refill.
After months of feeling foggy headed, isolated, and lethargic, I realized it was depression. in June my doc switched me to twice a day generic “regular” 75 mg – and told me to find a different manufacturer. Now using Apotex product and feeling some better – though it’s partly due to knowing what was wrong. (At age 70+ there’s no telling!)
All 3 generic manufacturers I’ve looked at (including the one I’m taking now) are “bad boys” with regulatory problems, lawsuits, etc. Obviously they’re the low ballers that appeal to the big pharmacies. Drug manufacturing is a humongous global business, and consumers have no way to protect themselves. If someone organizes consumers, let me know. I’m in! Thanks, People’s Pharmacy, for making this available.
caderanek
US
Has anyone tried ordering Welbutrin XL from Canada? Mfg by Valiant, not exactly like tried and true of original brand but gets me through the day.
Joan
Shubuta MS
I have been taking this G E Bupropion for 7 years… Yes, I was also affected by the recall several years back. This new manufacture is not selling the proper grade equivalent. This is the worse I have been in years. Depression, nightmares, trouble even leaving the house.
Even thoughts of ending it all. I can not function like this.. In a complete fog all day, crying spells, insecurity. I do not want to loose all that I have gained. But there seems to be no joy in my life everything is hard to do.
Actually very scared. Will have to discontinue use until someone steps up and takes care of this problem. They need to do a class action suit. Maybe then they will think twice about selling crap replacement pills.
Brenda
CA
I’ve recently started on Bupropian. Never the brand name though. I have recently been charged from one genetic brand to another. Since then I’ve had terrible difficulty sleeping and my RLS is worse than ever. The only thing that had changed is this Rx. Of course, when at the major chain pharmacy (the only one I canuse withmy insurance) I’m told it’s virtually the same.
I need to do something soon. Even with sleep meds and my other meds and melatonin i’m still waking up a couple hours after I go to bed ?
Keek
WA
I’ve had the same issues as other with the generic. It is not even close to equivalent. For the past year I’ve been paying for Wellbutrin XL out of pocket from a Canadian pharmacy. A 90-day supply was $204.00. My dr. would send the prescription to them. Sadly, the U.S. government is forcing them to close their website – not due to any issues with mail order pharmacy but with an issue several years back with their wholesale pharmacy. A similar issue happened with CVS, but the US gov is not forcing them to close. You can look up the details. I really don’t know what I will do after they close in July because my insurance will not cover name brand anything, and the generic XL version of Wellbutrin doesn’t work at all. I suspect a lot of pressure from Big Pharma was behind this.
William
oregon
Switching to the non-generic version of Wellbutrin (thank you, Canadian pharmacy and People’s Pharmacy) solved difficulties I had experienced over the years with different generic versions. Most notably, panic symptoms, which I have not experienced since starting the brand version five months ago.
L
Atlanta area
I have been taking generic bupropion for several years. Because of the insane price hikes this year- (and raised our premium to a nearly impossible rate)- we were told to order our meds through some mail order pharmacy or switch to Walgreens from Kroger pharmacy, where we have been for the past ten years. This past month, I noticed the bupropion (300 cream) from Walgreens looked different from what I have been taking. I can definitely feel it lacking effectiveness, with the some of the depression, irritability, and anxiety returning- the depression in particular is frightening for me. Luckily our mail order pharmacy (after having various problems with Walgreens, we switched again) has sent me the same generic as Kroger pharmacy. By the way, I don’t blame this on Walgreens at all- I am sure they are different in certain regions. It just happened to be my experience.
Amber D.
VA
I have been taking Wellbutrin XL (brand ) for almost 13 years, with amazing results. It was the only thing that cured my recurring depression and allowed me to live a normal, productive life. The insurance offered by my employer recently changed, and I was forced to switch to the generic because the brand would have cost me nearly $1800/month WITH insurance coverage. My psychiatrist said his patients have not done well on the generic XL, so he put me on the generic SR, which I take twice a day (instead of once a day with the XL).
I’ve been on the generic for about 6 weeks and feel worse than I have in years — depressed, crying for no reason, hopeless. This is the second time in the last 13 years that I tried a generic version of the drip (the last time was a decade ago when I tried the generic bupropion XL). Both times my depression returned within weeks of the change. I am beside myself. The generic is obviously not being absorbed by my body at the same rate or to the same extent as the brand.
Why can’t the FDA look into this? And why can’t my insurance company force the brand to negotiate a lower price? I know I’m not the only one who has had this experience.
Becky
Nebraska
I just started taking Buproprion for Wellbutrin SR in October of 2017. Never took the brand-name drug. It has helped with my depression, but it increases the ringing in my ears and I feel like I’m easily agitated and on edge.
My dose was recently increased to 200mg 2x a day, and the ringing is worse, I feel like I cry more easily and my jaw is clenched all the time. I sweat just walking down the hallway at work. I’d love to have the relief of the drug without the physical side-effects. It is difficult to take. But at this point I’m not sure what else to do.
MES
California
My insurance company (United) will not cover brand name Wellbutrin. I take Wellbutrin XL 150 and it wants to charge me $2000 a month! Last year my doctor filed appeals and numerous documents to finally allow them to give me the brand name and NOT the worthless generic version. Now, even though I have changed nothing, United is saying that approval has “expired”! I need to go through all of it AGAIN and there are no guarantees they will approve it this time. Do these insurance companies really want to be responsible for thousands of suicides??! Why do they think we demand the brand-name version… for laughs? NO, because it DOESN’T work!
Marge
Illinois
Yep – United has even DENIED the Appeals TWICE. I am stunned by this. Even more, I am SHOCKED at how this drug company has increased the price! I am surprised they are even afloat at this rate. No doubt, they have very deep pockets. I have been on XL 3000, so you can imagine what that one costs. Mine is also used for pain, which causes depression, as we all know. I am tempted to go thru Canada, but have heard one is being shut down for giving counterfeit drugs. They are being criminally prosecuted. So, now what?
Belinda
Georgia
I have had the same problems I was on the brand Wellbutrin years ago and it was wonderful but the price kept going up even though I had insurance now it’s over $1,000 out of pocket a month the generic has never helped me I don’t understand why the price keeps going up because of the medication has not changed it’s a shame I’ve tried everything else in the side effects are terrible.
Melissa
Midwest
Like Kay Florida maybe? 4.25.18 I THOUGHT PERHAPS I had noticed SOME undigested pills but when I saw TRIPLES (My dose is three 150 mg bupropion XL in the AM) passing through undigested AT THE SAME TIME I began to catch on. They are passing through my system entirely undigested at least part of the time from the manufacturer Par Pharm which I know because I have checked a few times, still in original condition after a couple of meals and 10 or 11 hours with little change. No wonder I spend a majority of each day looking out of the window at work wondering why I even bother to live…..I am in month 4 and a couple of weeks of this manufacturer!
I have been taking this medication, mostly as a generic, for over a decade and I know how I am supposed to feel when I am getting the medication in my system. If I hadn’t spent so many years living with depression, being educated about it by my own means and otherwise, working on it, in therapy, working my way out of it, around it, making ‘friends’ with it, etc.
I might not know any better than to follow these horrible thoughts but even I could fall prey to having nothing but these thoughts day in and day out. I don’t know how we can say that we live in a modern, civilized country, some would say the greatest country in the world, when we allow such a disparity in the manufacture of drugs within these generics and turn a blind eye to it.
Cindy22
Houston
I’ve been reading up on this issue lately, but nobody seems to mention the brand of the generic they’re referring to. Cigna pharmacy has been mailing me Sandoz for years, and I don’t feel it’s working very well, and they recently changed to Solco brand (manufacturer).
I increased, actually doubled my dosage today, and don’t feel anything. I wish you all would share the failure brands.
This makes me wonder if my Meloxicam is working. It changes constantly, too.
Helen
Indiana
My insurance just denied my claim for name brand Wellbutrin 300xl stating that I needed to try two other antidepressants before they would make the approval. My problem is I have already done that with disastrous results.
The first was in 2002 when I took Paxil. That was before people knew that antidepressants could cause suicidal thoughts/ideation. I had no idea that I was slipping further down a well of insanity until I almost killed myself.
Inspite of major depressive disorder, I stayed away from antidepressants until 2007 when I finally sought professional help. I was placed on Wellbutrin 300xl and responded immediately and positively to the medication. When my month sample ran out, I got a refill at the pharmacy. They gave me Budeprion. Within days I was spiraling out of control with no way of knowing what was happening since all generics are the same as name brand, right?
The only reason I didn’t commit suicide this time, was because I was fostering a dog that started acting strangely and refused to leave my side. Especially in the shower, which is where I would fantasize for hours about cutting my wrists as the water grew cold. I would hallucinate/fantasize about my blood mixing with the water and circling down the drain. My dog would sit with her head poked through the shower curtain. Weird, I thought. That dogs’ behavior is strange. No. It was me.
I researched what would make a dog act like that and realized that I was the one who was sick. It came into sharp focus and I finally did research and found The People’s Pharmacy report on Budeprion. I showed that to my Psychiatrist and she switched me to the brand again straight away.
Now, 11 years later, I am successfully being treated using therapy and the same Wellbutrin regimen from 2007. I have an excellent and successful career and life. I am terrified about what to do next. I can start taking the generic, Activas and hope for the best, when the worst actually means possible death. Or I can wean myself off the few remaining Wellbutrin and hope for the best, where the worst means I’m incapacitated by crippling depression.
It all sounds horribly dramatic, but I assure you, this is what my current reality is. What do I do? I’m clinically diagnosed with the same disorder by three independent doctors. Every time I’ve taken a different medication, I’ve gone crazy. Only this time I don’t have a dog to snap me out of it. It is a most terrifying thing to lose your mind, and not even know it is happening until it is almost (or is) too late.
These brain medications are nothing to trifle with. They aren’t just some random ‘feel better’ pill. They are actually keeping me alive and functioned and off disability (or worse). I feel like calling the CEO of my insurance company and telling them I’d be happy to try the new meds with the caveat that I move in with them and they deal with whatever consequences come of the medication switch. Is there any hope for me?
Or is my time simply up as a functioning and successful adult? Can anyone help? I have 8 days of meds left. When those are out, will my time be up or is there some white knight pharmaceutical solution on the horizon of which I am unaware? I don’t want to die…now. Can I say the same in 3 weeks? Will I still be here in 3 weeks? I’m just a number to the insurance company. Perhaps I’ll leave directive to carve that number on my headstone instead of my name.
Toni
Harrison Twp., MI
Do these insurance companies ever really look into our records to see what ant depressants we have already tried? I don’t think they do. Then when we finally hit on a name brand one that works they decide then not to cover it and demand that we get generic. Why should I feel worse just so they can save money?
Margaret
IN
Helen: Reading your story is so powerful! Not to mention, heartbreaking. You Paint a picture that truly illustrates what I wish they could actually see and feel. This is nothing to take lightly for so many who need and benefit from it. PLEASE keep posting how you are doing on the generic. For others to benefit from, and from this fellow Indiana resident who prays you are doing well.
Monica
Fort Worth Texas
Helen,
I take Wellbutrin 150 mg XL (non brand). The Actavis generic worked for me for over a year. i got switched to TWI 2 months ago & have all my symptoms back. My doctor has just ordered I use brand name only. It took me a year to get myself to feeling like I was living again All to be erased by a cheap generic. I hope it won’t take too long for me to get it back together.
I also took the Solco generic of SR 150mg twice a day & it did nothing for me either.
Hope this helps!
Monica
Kathy
Fairmont, WV
I had taken brand name Wellbutrin for 20 years for major depression. Brand name helped my depression so much. The generic ARE NOT the same. I feel that it is very unfair to sell these generics when they are definitely NOT as therapeutic as the brand ones.
Dawn
Texas
I recently started taking bupropion again (I took it years ago, and it worked well but was off it for a number of years for various reasons). It was working extremely well, and my depression improved dramatically while I was taking the PAR Pharmaceutical generic (300 mg XL, round, white with A102 on it). But when my pharmacy recently filled my prescription with the Actavis brand (same dose, long white oval with 142 on it). Right away I noticed that the effects of this pill felt MUCH weaker than what I was used to. After about 10 days I was feeling severely depressed (thoughts of self harm), I was having vivid nightmares, and experienced dizziness and trouble concentrating. After a day or two of this sudden severe depression I realized it must have been caused by the switch to Actavis. I went back on PAR Pharmaceutical brand and felt better almost immediately. I don’t know if this was simply a bad batch but I’m very disturbed at the almost total lack of efficacy of the Actavis brand.
Brittany
Maryland
I’ve had a bunch of life changes happening around the same time that I was switched in the EXACT SAME WAY as you, and I’m just now coming to realize that it’s probably the med switch. I kept using my same techniques for coping that I learned from therapy, and they weren’t working anymore. I’m more easily frustrated and have been crying way more often (even at work!) and have been straining my personal relationships pretty heavily with all of my insecurity.
I just received my latest 3 month supply and they are no longer the Actavis brand. I’m going to discontinue taking the Actavis and go for the most recent ones. Crossing my fingers that it works.
Kay
Florida
For years, I was on Wellbutrin XL 300, which was covered by my health insurance with a slightly higher copay than generic as long as the doctor indicated it was “medically necessary”. Any time I moved, had a new doctor, they would insist I try generic again. It didn’t work. But also, I noticed what some have reported here for the brand name XL, undigested or partially digested pills passing.
And no, it was not just the shell. Because of that, with the help of my current doctor, we tried generic formulations immediate release and sustained release (changes in insurance coverage made it worth another try). For whatever reason, I react horribly to the generic sustained release, but finally found Mylan immediate release, 2×75 mg both taken in the morning worked well enough. My pharmacy refilled my prescription the first week in April, 2018 with a new manufacturer, Heritage Pharma, and it’s been straight downhill ever since. I can’t sleep, am anxious, angry, blow up easily, and am gaining weight after a year in which I lost 50 lbs., reduced blood pressure, pulled A1C from over 7 to just over 5, reduced triglycerides, and according to my regular doctor have all the indications of excellent health now–until this damned cheap crap being sold as Wellbutrin.
I have had issues before when pharmacies changed my thyroid medication manufacturer and was told by CVS that because different patients reacted differently to different generics, they contracted to stay with the same manufacturer and I am now fine on generic. The same with another medication. What is terrifying is the negative effects can range from simply ineffective to truly dangerous. As far as the Mylan bupropion, now that I am on the Heritage Pharma for a few weeks it’s clear I’m having withdrawal symptoms, and they are serious. I will write and report the problem, but have no hope the government, particularly this administration, will take any action to address what is demonstrably a flawed measure of bioequivalency.
I don’t know what to do, but as soon as my prescribing doctor’s office opens today, I will be on the phone with her seeking help, and on the phone with CVS. Though my local CVS is quite helpful, don’t have much hope they can help me if CVS no longer carries the Mylan. It infuriates me for patients to be dismissed as having psychosomatic symptoms. I’m a retired college professor and after decades of experience am a student of my own specific reactions to supposedly identical medications which, for me and many others, are anything but identical.
Tracy
California
I have been taking generic Wellbutrin SR 200mg twice a day for many years. For the last 9 mos. I have been struggling with exhaustion, slow reflexes, feeling constantly sedated, hopeless, sad etc. I asked my Dr. why the meds aren’t giving me energy like they used to. The pills look the same, round and pink. I have a bottle of extra Pills from several years ago, same shape and color so I assume same manufacturer. They are the same strength. I have been taking them for 10 days now and feel terrific! I think the new pills must be different and are not effective for me. Now what do I do? I can’t tolerate SSRI’s. Maybe I will try different maker and hope that works. It’s SO frustrating to find what works and then have that taken away.
I don’t think I have ever tried the brand name. Has anyone been able to find it for a reasonable price? Mexico maybe? It would be worth it to go there and buy it if I have too!
Mary
Tennessee
I have been taking Wellbutrin XL for 20+ years but only in about the last 8 have I been taking the generic because my doctor wouldn’t allow it before. I researched it and found out that some generics caused problems, and some did not. Recently, my pharmacy switched to Par Pharm. I have been blowing up at people for nothing, angry all the time, depressed again, can’t lose weight, can’t make decisions. This is a nightmare! This is the only drug that has ever worked for me, and now it is causing me problems. Help!
A
Los Angeles
DO NOT start taking Wellbutrin. This is the biggest regret of my life. After years of searching for an anti-depression medication, it did bring me relief. But when I tried weaning myself off, because I wanted to get pregnant, it triggered life-long migraines and then fibromyalgia. Since 2005, at the age of 40 I have been on anti-migraine and pain medication, and at the age of 48 I have been on disability. I am in constant pain. I have missed my life. My life is over all because of Wellbutrin. My neurologist said he believes it should be pulled from the shelves. I agree.
Lee
Los Angeles
Utter nonsense. Millions have been helped by this wonderful drug. This discussion is about the effectiveness generic vs name brand Wellbutrin. Your isolated case is unfortunate but certainly an anomaly and not typical.
It has been and remains to be a life saving medication for millions…including myself.
Mary
MD
I had been on Wellburin XL 300mg for 12 years without problem. This Feb I had a huge seizure; was in the hospital 4Days with medical bills over $10,000.
This was so scary. I was taken off the Wellbutrin because of the risk of seizure. I stopped cold-turkey; sweats and constant vomiting for over a month, but I am feeling much better now. I cannot believe the FDA has not pulled this drug off the market.
I am lucky I was not driving when this happened. This drug is pure poison. I guess I need an attorney. I have lost 2 months of work and have huge medical bills. So glad I am off that poison.
Meryl
East Coast
I found this because I was looking up issues with generic Bupropion XL 300 mg. I had this issue with the rapid bioavailability of the med about 10 + years ago, resulting in panic attacks, and asked for my doctor to prescribe the name brand instead. I immediately stopped having anxiety attacks. Once the problem was IDed by the FDA and apparently pulled the problem versions off the market, I went back to the generic. In the last few months, maybe up to the last year, I’ve noticed my anxiety, irritability, anger are completely out of control to the point where I don’t even recognize myself sometimes. I’ve asked my Dr to lower it to 150 mg but I’m now wondering after seeing this article if we’re yet again experiencing issues with the generics. It’s infuriating (or is that just the bupropion setting me off :) ). The manufacturers should be forced to do bioavailability testing in human subjects for every available dose. Frustrating, to say the least
Bee
Washington
Is there a generic for Wellbutrin SR150 that works like the name brand? If so, who is the manufacturer? I’ve been on Wellbutrin for years but the name brand medication has just gotten too expensive.
Dee
Upstate NY
I have taken Bupropion (Wellbutrin generic) by Mylan for years with no problems. You may want to see if it’s available. Recently, my pharmacy changed to Bupropion by Solco, which I am finding is ineffective. Back to depression, mood swings, anxiety, irritability, etc. Just starting to attempt to get Mylan product again. Very discouraging.
Amber
Missouri
My pharmacist reports today that Mylan is “out of stock” with bupropion (Wellbutrin). I’d already been paying $80 per month instead of the insurance $10 co-pay because they said they were losing money getting a “brand specific” generic instead of the little pink-red pills that gave me horrible headaches and didn’t work at all. I tried them for over a month three separate times. It wasn’t psychosomatic. So now I’m stuck. I’ve taken this med for 15 years. It works. Or it did. Guess it’s back to the trial and error game again to find a different med.
Linda
MD
The Mylan brand of bupropion SR is out of stock as well for my daughter. At the only pharmacy in town that could get Mylan. My choices were Cipla and Apotex; I chose the latter, but am thinking of taking her totally off all bupropion products. Mylan was the only generic that worked, and we’d tried Teva, Heritage (SUGAR PILL!), and PAR.
Jan
19015
This is the second month in a row where I refilled my script for Wellbutrin XL 150mg at a big-chain pharmacy. The price was $5. I’m paying out of pocket. I don’t know what’s going on. I can’t find anything about a massive price reduction. Of course, I did not question it.
Joan
Mississippi
I was caught up with the bad drug replacement 5 years ago. Had a very bad reaction was almost hospitalized because of it. Now they have changed it up again. The dark red replacement pill my chain pharmacy has changed to is horrible. Nightmares, anxiety, depression, confusion. I can’t go through this again. Am allergic to most other anti depressants so what am I going to do now. They are going to have big problems with this off brand. Is there nothing we can do to change this? Class action? Just got my life back to where it is functional. Am at a loss as to what to do now
Laura
New York
I have occasionally noticed (getting gross here) a pill in my stool. The only pill I take anywhere close to this shape is Bupropion HCL XL 150. When I have noticed it, it seems to be intact. I decided to put on disposable gloves ones day and picked it up. Outside white color had discolored (of course it had passed through me) but when I squeezed it the contents were still inside and still white.
So does this mean it had NOT broken down enough for the medication to be absorbed??? This first occurred at least a year ago (my memory is awful so I’m not sure exactly how long ago, could be longer). On the occasion I do see it in my stool (50% of the time), half of that I pick it out and see if it’s full. More often than not, the contents are still inside. I have found that it is just the shell of the casing but not as often. The pill is small, white and round.
Kelly
NC
I was stable for years first on brand name Wellbutrin and then on a generic. However, over the past year I have been dealing with worsening symptoms of depression. I thought I was going crazy. I suspect now that I was suffering because the Actavis bupropion XL 300 is not as effective for me as what I was on before my pharmacy switched brands. A month ago I got switched again without notification to the Par brand. It took me weeks of panic attacks, unusually vivid dreams, utter lack of motivation, suicidal thoughts and problems with anger management, to realize that the Par bupropion is the culprit. (Years ago I had a similar problem with Teva before it was withdrawn from the market, which took me much longer to work out because my pharmacy swore up and down at the time that it was identical to brand name Wellbutrin. I know better now, in large part because of the People’s Pharmacy article.) Currently I am trying Mylan with better results. I hope my health continues to improve. It’s criminal that generics that can range so dramatically – and disastrously – in effect are considered interchangeable by the FDA and commercial pharmacies.
Kim
Texas
Kelly could you tell me where you are getting the Mylan brand? That works best for me and I’m having a hard time finding it.
Thanks.
Stacy
NJ
I am full swing in worse depressive mode in years . Has happened before with certain bupropion xl 300mg suppliers. Only Actavis (formerly Watson) and another A-starting one, Anchen or something, work. I don’t think any of the oval ones like bluepoint are the same. I remember every time to tell them, but this last time I messed up and ended up with ineffective ones. I wish I could take brand name. I have no other generic medicine problems. I take dollar tree ibuprofen with no issue!
Linda
Louisiana
I read online that Mylan was no longer making bupropion as of June 2018. I phoned Mylan and they confirmed that it’s true. They are no longer making bupropion. I’ve been taking the Mylan brand for many years successfully, but since the pharmacy switched my to Solco, I’ve been depressed, irritable, nauseated, and my blood pressure has soared. I’m trying now to get a different generic from my insurer. They tell me they can get Mylan, but after talking to Mylan, I doubt seriously that this is true. I’ve been researching other brands. Sandoz is supposed to be a better alternative, but my insurer does not carry it in my dosage. I may just buy it out of pocket. I’ve suffered from major depression most of my adult life and Wellbutrin was a life saver. What are we to do now? Insurers and pharmacies act as though all of these generics are the same when we (and they) know that they’re not.
Lou
Delaware
I just had the same thing happen – found a pill “shell” with powder still inside. I’m taking Bupropion XL 150 from Actavis
Victoria
Seattle
Dammit. I’ve been having insane mood swings, lost all my sex drive, been crying constantly, etc. and I was convinced I was premenopausal/having marital issues. Turns out, the generic for the 150SR (purple round pill with 525 on it) is from some out-of-country manufacturer, and people have had loads and loads and loads of problems. Thankfully, I have an understanding and available doctor who is able to lobby for me + walk me through the ropes of getting the brand name through insurance. I almost lost my mind and ruined my life.
Kay
WASHINGTON
On February 8, 2018 my pharmacist switched me from
Actavis South Atlantic LLC’s Bupropion Hydrochloride – 24 HR Bupropion Hydrochloride 300 MG Extended Release Oral Tablet
to
Golden State Medical Supply, Inc.’s version.
I’ve been experiencing severe depression and suicidal ideation since the switch. Before this, my depression was under control.
I’ve reported this to the FDA using your link and am returning to my pharmacy today to ask the pharmacist to switch me back and to make an official report. I am posting here so that others can see this and feel confident in asking for the same thing if they are experiencing similar symptoms.
Please keep reporting and encouraging consumer labs to do more testing on bupropion again. It will save lives. The only reason I feel confident asking for the switch is because of your reporting on previous problems and this most recent post about July 2017. I was on bupropion for years and have only experienced suicidal ideation since taking the Golden State Medical Supply version.
Thank you so much.
Sherry
Texas
Thank you for this post. Unbeknownst to me my pharmacy switched my Bupropion from ACTAVIS to IMPAX in March. And I had no idea why I was back in my ‘dark days’. Now I know and can try to get this corrected.
Claire
New Jersey
I have been the exact same, constantly crying and telling my gynecologist I’m premenopausal. Had my IUD taken out. I have been a mess. I have been on bupropion XL 300mg and a generic topamax. I stopped the generic wellbutrin a few weeks ago to see if that was my issue, and it did help some but I also believe it’s the generic topamax as well. I have now slowly weaned myself off of that. I have now been approved for the name brand Wellbutrin and will be picking it up today so I am praying it works, as my anxiety is back so badly.
Kody
california
Yes, I too tried using the Valeant coupon and was told that in California they no longer can take the coupon. I researched further and found that our great state of California passed Assembly Bill 265 which prohibits the usage of Prescription coupons in California. However, there is an exception to the law. Section 132004, (C) The individual has completed any applicable step therapy or prior authorization requirements for the branded prescription drug a mandated by the individuals health insurer, health care service plan, or other health coverage.
I called Valeant Wellbutrin XL customer service on 3 separate occasions and they were unwilling to help, even though I read them the exception to the law. The law is easily available on Google. In contrast, Pfizer, the maker of Zoloft did allow me to use their coupon at the pharmacy. I’m not sure what to do either. I may attempt to contact news companies to see if they would help with a news story. Maybe pressure from the public will do something.
Penelope
California
I would encourage anyone affected to fill out this form that alerts the FDA:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm?action=reporting.home
I submitted one earlier today, but on its own, it’s probably not enough to trigger an investigation. If they receive a lot of complaints, they may look into the issue.
It sounds like the problem involves multiple manufacturers.
Lori
D
I had been taking the Sandoz version of bupropion HCL SR 150 for over 10 years with wonderful results. Pharmacy just changed to one supplied by Actavis and I succumbed to depression within a week. I am not being successful in getting the Sandoz version from any of my local pharmacies. I am trying other manufacturers to see if there is one that will work.
Cindy
CA
I just found out that California no longer accepts prescription discount cards if the medication in question is available as a generic! I’m not sure what to do…. I had the Valeant card where I was paying $5 per $30 supply of Wellbutrin XL ($5 each of 150 and 300). I had a bad experience with several brands of the generic buproprion XL, and I absolutely can’t take generic! I’m trying to figure out what to do… I put a call in to my doctor to find out if there is anything she can do. I just can’t afford the $1500 and $2000+ it costs to get the name brand. Anyone had the same issue?
Edith
Pleasanton CA
I am in the same situation with the same price quotes. This is an unintended consequence of AB265. Call Jim Wood’s Sacramento office to register complaint and they can give you a contact number for the assembly health commity.
Nw
Georgia
My company just switched to what I thought would be a better insurance. turns out it is worse, in terms of prescription services. My new XL 150 (I have been on Wellbutrin brand for a long time, no issues) is from Lupin Pharmacies, an Indian lab that is under investigation by the FDA..many many infractions.
My brand name prescription now costs 3,400.00 per month, which is not going to happen, obviously. I am pretty tense about it all, have not started generic yet, but am very concerned.
Steve
New York
My therapist decided to put me on Bupropian XL. Started at the low dosage, it did nothing. I’m up to 300mg. And still no results. I have side effects from Sertraline that are affecting my sex drive. The therapist said when it’s combined with Zoloft it’s called Welloft. Well, it isn’t working. Nothing is working. Do not understand why meds are put on the market when they cause problems. Does anybody know of any alternatives? This is really ridiculous and has been going on for two years now.
Tara
MO
I have been taking generic Bupropion 100mgx2 for a few months–no problem. BUT, when doc ordered refill, I got a 200mg pink pill. I started this pill last week. I was noticing (and ignoring) extreme dry mouth and irregular heartbeat. Sunday, went to ER due to symptoms of stroke. I am pretty sure this change caused it. It was terrifying. I won’t take it again.
Colleen
Charleston, SC
On the flip side of this issue, I took budeprion 300 mg for years with good result and no adverse effects, until it was withdrawn from the market. I was then switched to a different bupropion formulation. After I switched to the new formulation, I developed a low white blood cell count (a known side effect of bupropion) and had to stop taking the drug. Unfortunately, this switch was not a good one for me.
Susie
Connecticut
I have been discussing taking welbutrin IR… which is way cheaper than the XL. The genetic is a headache. I need the brand name & I can afford the $150 for the IR instead of the XL for $1,400.
Sarah
Texas
I am writing this as I lie in bed about to puke. Got put on the generic cus Wellbutrin cost an arm. Ever since, I’ve cried every day, multiple times a day. I’ve wanted to die. I’ve wanted to hurt people. I can’t focus on school work and just end up crying. I crash around 12/1pm everyday. I feel heavy. And now I’ve been sick to my stomach for three days straight. The side effects are getting worse, and I’m getting off of these!!!!!
Dolly
California
100% fed up with pharmaceutical prices for brand name drugs. Done. Consulted naturopath. Taking St. John’s Wort and Ginseng. Also, Huperzine A. Better. Safer.
Michael
Elmsford, NY
LAST YEAR THE DRUG MANUFACTURER THAT MAKES WELLBUTRIN (VALEANT) CAME OUT WITH A WEB SITE. WELLBUTRINXL.COM/SAVINGS. THEY HAD A COUPON THAT ENABLED YOU TO GET THE DRUG AT A NORMAL PRICE. I USED IT AND IT WORKED! BETWEEN MY INSURANCE AND THE COUPON I PAID ALMOST NOTHING. THE WEB SITE STILL EXISTS BUT THE FINE PRINT SAYS THAT IT EXPIRED AT THE END OF 2017. I WILL CALL TODAY AND REPORT BACK.
I have been taking Wellbutrin for 20 years. In the course of 20 years generics came out, and I tried them. This was before the price skyrocketed. It would take two, three weeks to realize that I was not feeling right and that the generic was not effective. A number of years would go by and inadvertently I would be prescribed the generic again and I would try it. I always had the same results with generic. It simply did not treat my “free floating” anxiety. So before the prices skyrocketed I knew the generic was worthless to me. I was eating the $4,000 out of pocket expense that my insurance policy requires. You know this is not psychosomatic if you are willing to pay $4000 out of pocket!
Steven
Alexandria,Va
Valeant’s pricing strategy is to maximize reimbursement from patients with generous insurance. Google search the company and you’ll find several articles about price gouging and Senate hearings concerning Valeant.
B.J.
I agree that some generic drugs are NOT the same formula and some generics are just useless. I take stimulant medication for my ADD. I feel the effects within an hour that my medication is working (or not). Stimulants work by increasing dopamine, which my body does not make enough of. I learned that Wellbutrin, unlike most anti depressants, increases dopamine. I wanted to try a non stimulant drug for my ADD, so I asked my doctor for a prescription for Wellbutrin.
I too was appalled at the brand name price and knowing my health plan wouldn’t pay for it, took the generic (mfr: Anchen). Other than a slight headache, it did nothing for me. So I just assumed this drug doesn’t work the same as ADD drugs do.
I had the same experience with generic Adderal. It was absolutely useless. I went on an ADD forum and read many comments from people who also found the generics useless and worse, had bad side effects. Insurance companies for the most part will not pay for the brand name drug. So I figured I’d just have to pay out of pocket for the brand name. For this, I was paying $700 a month for health insurance that I was forced to buy under Obamacare or pay a penalty!
Now, it gets worse. Every chain pharmacy in my town, Walmart and Costco, do not carry the brand name drug that’s the only one effective for me. They also all tell me they cannot order it for me. Fortunately, there is one independent pharmacy left in my town that is able to obtain the one brand that works for me.
You have to wonder, what is going on here. By the way, I also wanted to try another non stimulant drug for my ADD which is Provigal. However, the ridiculous price of that drug discouraged me from trying it.
It’s a sad situation and even sadder is the fact that the FDA is NOT on the side of the consumer and we can’t expect any changes for the better from them.
Kevin
Bakersfield, CA
I have been on Wellbutrin or Bupropion for about 15 years. Wellbutrin alleviated my clinical depression and anxiety to a very great degree. A few years ago the generic Bupropion my insurance supplied became much less effective for alleviating my depression and anxiety. The generic also caused a mental fog to descend on me. I make my living troubleshooting complex systems, and it became very obvious that my mental acuteness had diminished. I had trouble getting any work done. Eventually I learned that it was the generic Bupropion that was causing the problem, and I got myself switched back to name brand Wellbutrin. Very soon my mind became sharp again, and I was back to 100% mental capacity. HOWEVER, in September 2017, I started to feel like I was on the generic Bupropion again, even though I am taking name brand Wellbutrin. I’m depressed, anxious, and in a mental fog again. It’s a major problem for me. I opened a case with Valeant, to see if they had changed their production process to be more like the cheaper generic Bupropion. I received a call back from Valeant by someone who said they were a pharmacist. They said Wellbutrin was still Wellbutrin, but I did not have a lot of confidence in their answer.
MJMG
Detroit
Over 10 years ago, I was put on Wellbutrin, and it was wonderful. But then I had to go on a generic. It was awful. Not only did it not work, it seemed like it permanently fried my circuits. I think it dumped its load improperly because I went through a period of extreme chills, followed by the worst sweating I’ve ever had, over and over, for well over an hour. (I now suffer from permanent head-to-toe hyperhidrosis/excessive sweating.) I didn’t tie it to the buproprion until the next day when I took it again. So needless to say, I stopped taking that and read without surprise all about the controversy of Wellbutrin and its generics.
I figured things might be better now, so many years later I cautiously took the PAR brand for a few months and I was pleasantly surprised. Not as good as Wellbutrin, but my depression lifted and was better. Then I was switched to Actavis. When I recover, I am going to look into filing a complaint with the FDA against them. It came close to killing me. Luckily, I called my pharmacy for advice, and they’re going to help me. I cannot describe my rage at how careless they are with people’s health. I am going to become a thorn in the side of the FDA and perhaps the local Attorney General. Consumers need protection more than corporations need profits.
Kay
Indiana
Have you ever had a side effect of a halt in your words? I started cutting the pills in half, and it stopped but don’t want to because they are very helpful in losing weight.
Karen
Metter, GA
YES!!!!! I will be in mid-sentence and CANNOT say simple words to finish my thought and sentence…. whats wrong????!!! I blamed it on menopause.
Linda
Louisiana
Yes! Since my generic bupropion was switched from Mylan to Solco, I find myself, aphasia-like, searching for words. I know what I want to say, but I can’t find the word!
Will
Texas
I’ve been on brand and generic (A102 pill) 300mg XL for over 10 years via mail order. Ten days ago I had to refill at a local chain pharmacy at the last minute and received Actavis (their preferred generic), and it’s definitely not the same – racing negative thoughts, palpitations, sensitive skin, shakiness, and anxiety about 1.5 hours after dosing. Later in the day I’m cranky and tired then have trouble sleeping.
Just got back from vacation in Mexico and I was in a fog the whole trip, and one night had a lucid dream about jumping off the balcony. I’ve NEVER had such thoughts. Also since the cutover I’ve consistently felt “off”, like right before a cold or the flu kicks in. Nothing else in my environment has changed recently.
Clearly it’s releasing too quickly, and perhaps there’s something else insidious going on as I’m also experiencing marked sexual dysfunction, like when I tried Prozac in the 90’s. Thankfully my insurance covers brand at a reasonably higher co-pay so I’m off the pharmacy in a bit. Never again!
MissM
NC
Well, this morning I called CVS mailorder pharmacy to refill my brand name Wellbutrin XL 300 mg and the bill total was going to be more than $4,000!!! (For a 3 month supply.) After unswallowing my tongue, I spoke to the customer service representative. The tier 3 drugs that have a generic available will be billed at the full price if the PATIENT requests the brand name drug. CVS mail-order said that starting in 2018, BlueCross requires that the brand name must be DOCTOR requested, otherwise the patient will pay close to full price, if it’s a tier 3 drug and a generic is available. Instead of $125 for 3 months, it would be more than $4,000 for 3 months.
No way can I afford this. I’ll call my doc on Monday to see what they can do for me. All I know is that the generic Bupropion 24 XL did not work the same for me as the Wellbutrin. I found that it made me despondent, very moody, and actually depressed. This is the opposite of what the drug should be doing! I was willing to pay the extra $100, but not $4,000. No way. All I can do is call my doctor on Monday and discuss it with her. Wish me luck…
dave
georgia
12/11/17 Well I knew the problems I was having seemed like withdrawal but thought maybe just a couple of the pills were faulty. I have been on Wellbutrin for 20 or so years. I was getting ready to tell my dr I needed to try something different. I have tried most anti depression meds thru the years but Wellbutrin has worked the best. I currently take 150mg twice daily and 5mg pristiq once daily. I started Wellbutrin for IBS which was brutal for many years. The next day after the first pill I was cured!!! Man! Great feeling. So I hope our government will straighten it out.
Bob
Amarillo, Texas
Just so everyone else knows,,,, I have tried 3 different types of generic Wellbutrin in the last year. 30 day scripts each time. The first one did nothing. Just absolutely no change in mood or personality or anything. The next two types had me thinking crazy and having wild dreams. Sick feeling day and night. Not good for anyone to go through. I kept thinking it would get better after several days. IT DID NOT GET BETTER. I stopped taking anything. I did start Xanex so I wasn’t so short-tempered all the time. But now I want to sleep continuously. So I do. Sure wish I could get name brand Wellbutrin. Best Wishes.
Ellen
Canada
Canadian here, chiming in re. terrible experiences with Actavis tablets specifically!!
I had been using a different supplier’s generic bupropion XL (300mg) for over a year with great results for managing my depression. Here in Canada the main distributor for the generic drug is Mylan.
One month my local pharmacy was out of their regular stock, so they filled my prescription with Actavis’ version of the generic. I still had a couple weeks left of my usual pills, but when I started on the new ones I went downhill FAST. To think I just had a weird body chemistry with those pills was one thing… but hearing here how many others are finding them plain ineffective also? This is awful. ?
Charlene
California
I started on name brand Wellbutrin in 2007 at a small dosage which was gradually increased over a couple years, to 200 SR twice a day. Initially, Wellbutrin was like a dream come true for me but over the years, taking various generics, it seemed to lose it’s luster. I thought maybe it had run it’s course with me after being on it for so long but I was still able to maintain and function for the most part.
Well, a few weeks ago, my pharmacy (Express-Scripts) sent me Solco brand generic. I’ve been on a downward spiral ever since. Constant crying, don’t want to leave the house, etc. Apparently, my previous generics were still working to a certain extent because I haven’t felt like this since prior to starting on Wellbutrin. The last generic I was on was Actavis which others have complained about. Maybe it’s not quite as good as the real thing and then this Solco is even worse. That could explain my marginal decline prior to this full on crash.
S.r.b.
Wisconsin
The only drug that has ever worked for me was name brand wellbutrin 100mg immediate release. I had been on the drug for many, many years. It was my saving grace. I cannot take the generic, extended release is horrible and makes my tongue swell. Generic is not really wellbutrin, patients know this, companies know this and so do the “regulatory” agencies.
Wellbutrin, name brand gave me life, now there is just severe depression. Shame on companies that stopped making this drug. How many people were guinea pigs for testing to get drug on the market? I guess if the drug was for a different illness somebody might have cared.
Lauren
North Carolina, USA
I had been taking bupropion for the past 4 years after spending the better half of 6 years trying to find an antidepressant that worked for me. It worked at first, but I continued to take it even though my symptoms of depression came back. I hit my lowest point in my life (in terms of depression) in May of this year (now November), and my doctor put me on the brand name Wellbutrin. It was like night and day after the first month. I felt human again, no longer a shell of a person. However, at $4,300 a MONTH for my 90 pills (150mg 3x/day), my insurance company did NOT like that.
Several months later they decided they didn’t want to pay for it, and I went without my medication (or had to get samples) while I got more prior authorizations (the staff at my doctor’s office is horrible, and this process took incredibly long). I had to pay $100/month a couple of times, which I could not afford but needed my medication, because it took so long. Had I not had my Wellbutrin coupon, I would’ve been out of luck. Well, we just got a letter in the mail stating that they would no longer be covering the cost of my Wellbutrin. My heart was shattered. I got my life back this year, and now they’re taking it away.
Keith
Kentucky
Update on my last comment: I previously took Cipla bupropion 300 mg XL. They were oblong white tablets. It worked very well with zero side effects.
My pharmacy changed manufacturers from Cipla to Lupin, which was a white circular tablet. The dosage and release were ostensibly the same – 300 mg XL. However, the Lupin was completely ineffective. It has zero bupropion as far as I am concerned. I became very depressed and anxious again, similar to my experience before starting bupropion. I began to have a phobia of showering, and could only bring myself to do it every 4-5 days. I could not go to many public places for fear of panic attacks, especially shopping centers like Walmart, and busy public places like bars (aka agoraphobia). I also began smoking again, which is VERY odd because bupropion is a smoking cessation drug.
My pharmacy then ordered the Cipla again. On the first day, it felt like the first day I started bupropion, like a strong coffee buzz. Within a few days, I felt better, I stopped smoking, I could handle public places better, and I was showering daily.
After about 10 days on this Cipla, I’ve noticed side effects similar to SSRIs. I had previously experienced zero side effects from Cipla bupropion, so I find this extremely odd. I feel jittery, irritable, having insomnia where I wake up between 3-5 am for no reason, and now experiencing erectile dysfunction. Bupropion is prescribed to counter erectile dysfunction for men that take SSRIs, because bupropion helps cure erectile dysfunction, not cause it. The only time I’ve had these side effects is when I took SSRIs – previously I’ve taken citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), and sertraline (Zoloft), all with very similar side effects.
It is clear to me that someone is either making counterfeit Cipla bupropion, with SSRI fillers to cut corners, and selling these counterfeits to the pharmacy, or Cipla themselves have added SSRIs to cut corners on bupropion. Rather than using 300 mg bupropion, they may only have to use 100 mg of bupropion and add 5 mg citalopram to get a “similar” anti-depressant effect, despite the side effects.
It’s very clear that the FDA is completely negligent in their duties. They have done and will continue to do nothing about this situation. In the mean time I just want real working bupropion without having to shell out $1,500 a month for brand-name Wellbutrin!
D.
ILLINOIS
I had been stable for many years taking the PAR brand generic Bupropion 300mg XL. My provider Express Scripts switched to a different (cheaper for them) brand Actavis. Shortly afterward my symptoms all started to return, like I was taking nothing. I returned to my Doctor and she specified that my prescriptions only be filled with PAR.
That worked great for a year, now apparently Actavis has taken over the market with their cheap pills that don’t work and Express Scripts, and other pharmacies are no longer able to bring in other brands because of the pharmaceutical wholesalers they work with.
It’s all about whatever is cheapest and makes the most profit – who cares if it works or not?
Kristen
Missouri
I’ve been on Wellbutrin XL 300 mg off and on for 21 years. I was originally on brand now on generic. I’ve been taking it consistently for the last 10. I totally agree they still don’t have this drug right! Nothing works like the original.
I was on Par’s version for quite some time and did ok. Then within the last month, my pharmacy went to Activis. Wow! I felt a huge difference and NOT for the better. This stuff is awful! I reported it to my pharmacist and he did some research. He is not going to reorder activis again due to some potential issues he’s been hearing about. I’m hoping I can get my doctor to write for brand again. I may have a prior authorization, have to use a coupon, and a bigger copay; but I don’t care anymore.
Depression is nothing to play with. The FDA needs to crack down on manufacturers of generics. The ranges they give them for active ingredients is way to wide, especially for certain drugs, in my opinion. Not to mention better quality control! Wellbutrin saved my life. Literally. It’s really the only antidepressant that works for me.
FDA needs to take another look at this drug and think about the harm being done to the patients. Manufacturers are getting off with a slap on the wrist.
Chloe
NH
Today I got curious, found out that I was switched to Actavis from PAR back in June. June is when my depression symptoms started coming back, along with hair pulling and binge eating. Coincidence? I think not. I got my pharmacy to switch me back to PAR today, and hopefully it works like it used to.
Zinnias
AL
I have been taking bupropion IR made by Actavis. 100 Mg twice a day.
Beforehand, I did start on bupropion 150 Mg SR. It made me angry, BUT I actually FELT subtle positive changes. My doctor suggested we try the IR version. Usually I tolerate IR drugs much better anyway. So I have been taking the IR as prescribed. I have not felt any different.
Recently I came across the leftover bottle of the SR. I decided to try it again (I know it’s important to consult my doctor before changing anything ) but I wanted to just see . I also have always taken my doses at night with no problems sleeping .
The next day after taking the SR was incredibly different in a good way. It felt like the medication should be. Nothing drastic, just my confidence was increased and my fatigue was not keeping me in bed.
I’m waiting for my doctor to prescribe the SR again once he gets my request. I don’t have any more SR so I’m taking the usual IR.
The MAIN POINT OF THIS ENTIRE COMMENT IS THIS:
The SR i had is by SANDOZ.
The IR I had is by Actavis .
I have also had major issues with actavis when I was taking Dexedrine spansules. I had to transfer to adderall ir. My issue is not biased, however, because I had I knew there was a major issue with the ir manufact. Before I looked up who made it . I realize the delivery mechanism is different, but i was taking 200 Mgs twice a day and it would jsut make me feel so flat. Empty – well more empty than I already felt from the sertaline . I know
For a fact something is off.
Keith
Kentucky
I have been taking oblong white tablets of bupropion 300 mg XR for several months. On my last refill, I was given round white pills, of what was ostensibly supposed to be the exact same thing. In the last couple of weeks, my depression has returned, and some mild suicidal ideations are starting to return to the point before I started bupropion. I knew the new version was not working when I started smoking again, because bupropion is a very effective anti-smoking drug that helped me quit.
It is absolutely ridiculous and negligent for the FDA to continue to allow this to happen. These companies are making huge profits from selling bunk pills that endanger people’s well-beings and lives. Anti-depressants are life-saving drugs that keep people from committing self-harm and suicide. All versions of bupropion should have the same effect, and if it is found that one manufacturer consistently has complaints of bad pills, they should be shut down.
Taylor
PA
I have been taking Wellbutrin XL for 10 years. I cannot tolerate ANY of the generic versions. Within a few days of taking them I begin feeling weepy, less motivated, down. By the end of week two I am full-on suicidal and can barely hold it together. The first time this happened to me I was switched to the generic automatically by the pharmacy and had no idea what was happening or why. I had to retrace everything to figure it out.
Since then, I have switched insurance plans – not companies, mind you, just got on a different plan due to a new life event (job change, etc) and was therefore issued a new id number. They would make me go through the precertification process all over again, even though I have been “their insured” for about 17 years. So back to the generics I went, just to prove that yes, they really do cause me horrific side effects and lend no therapeutic value whatsoever. Once I am a complete wreck my husband goes into the pharmacy and flips out (not their fault, I know) until they, the doctor, and the ins co. document the event and get the paperwork processed so I can get the name brand again. It’s insane.
The thing is, I don’t blame the insurance company for not wanting to pay for it. (Not that they are going hungry or anything), but the cost of the name brand is beyond ridiculous. I was at one point taking 3 – 150 mg tablets, which cost the insurance co $4500! My co-pay was $70. Then my dose was decreased to 2 – 150 mg tablets, which cost them $3000. Again I paid $70. Finally, since our premiums jumped by $500 per month this past year (to $1765 for 2 adults), I asked to be put on 1 – 300 mg tablet, which costs them $2000, my co-pay would be $70 but my doctor gave me an rx card, reducing it to $5 per month.
Now, we have moved to another county, must switch insurance companies altogether, and none of the new ones cover the name brand. I have no idea what I am going to do. I can’t tolerate SSRI’s. I have tried other meds similar to Wellbutrin, but this formulation is the only one that works well and without major side effects or drug interactions.
I do not understand how they can charge so much for a medication, especially one that has been around this long, has generics (useless, but still). There must be something that can be done…You can’t let people just go off medications that help them because you want to get rich charging $60-70 per pill (well, obviously, you can). All the other meds I take – different categories – are generics. No issues with them. This is the only one. There must be help for people like me and all the others whose stories I’ve been reading…
LinKay
Fort Worth, TX
CORRECTED (sorry)- I have taken Wellbutrin XL 300mg, or a generic thereof, for 19 years. It has always worked perfectly when taking either the brand name or the generic version manufactured by PAR. About 10 years ago I was switched to TEVA, became extremely depressed and suicidal for months- literally almost lost my life to this stuff- before they happened to switch manufacturers again at the pharmacy and I was fine. I didn’t put 2 and 2 together until much later when TEVA recalled their product because people were killing themselves and/or having seizures from it. Fast forward to 2017- In January the Pharmacy again switched manufacturers, and in addition to nausea, motion sickness, and headaches, all of which began within a day or two and never ceased; within 12 days I was incredibly depressed and once again having suicidal thoughts. For the first time in nearly 10 years. THIS IS NOT OKAY!!! Why is the FDA allowing consumers to suffer in this way? They themselves state that PAR is the only company to perform an independent Bioequivalency study on the 300mg. Since it’s not required, the other companies all did not. I will never let them switch me to anything besides brand name or PAR ever again. This is criminal. And the worst part is, pharmacists just look at you like you’re imagining it since nobody passed the literature on to them.
LinKay
Fort Worth, TX
I have taken Wellbutrin XL 300mg, or a generic thereof, for 19 years. It hasn’t always worked perfectly when taking either the brand name or the generic version manufactured by PAR. About 10 years ago I was switched to TEVA, became extremely depressed and suicidal for months- literally almost lost my life to this stuff- before they happened to switch manufacturers again at the pharmacy, and I was fine. I didn’t put 2 and 2 together until much later when TEVA recalled their product because people were killing themselves and/or having seizures from it.
Fast-forward to 2017- In January the Pharmacy again switched manufacturers, and in addition to nausea, had motion sickness, and headaches, all of which began within a day or two and never ceased; within 12 days I was incredibly depressed and once again having suicidal thoughts. For the first time in nearly 10 years. THIS IS NOT OKAY!!! Why is the FDA allowing consumers to suffer in this way? They themselves state that PAR is the only company to perform an independent Bioequivalency study on the 300mg. Since it’s not required, the other companies did not. I will never let them switch me to anything besides brand name or PAR ever again. This is criminal. And the worst part is, pharmacists just look at you like you’re crazy o imagining it since nobody passed the literature on to them. This is real!
Mary
Nebraska
I had really wonderful results using the Mylan generic 300mg xl for the past 6 months. I renewed my prescription at a different pharmacy and now I’m on the Anchen brand. My emotions are unpredictable and I’ve taken to crying about everything. I have increased anxiety and stress, where before I was able to cope much better. I worried that they had messed up my dosage but now after reading everything I am flabbergasted and hoping I can get back on the mylan brand and hopefully feel some relief.
Sharon
UT
After reading all of these comments, I think what makes me the most upset is how many sufferers of depression who were prescribed Wellbutrin at one time, tried the generic version their pharmacist gave them, and then either had no response, or worse, had some horrible reaction(s). Then they decided that Wellbutrin would never be the “right” medication for them – when in all probability their lives could have been greatly improved by the REAL thing.
I will never forget the month of October, 2004, when the Wellbutrin I was taking (I don’t remember the exact formula) started working in my system, and my dysthymia subsided enough for me to recognize that the sun was shinning, and that my grass was green, and that I had a hundred reasons to be thankful to be alive. I realized for the first time in my life that most other people must feel like that every day, WITHOUT any medicine. I will be eternally grateful for this life changing drug.
I wish more people who suffer from depression could really experience it’s effects. Now how do we get rid of all the phony generics, and get ones like Sandoz the attention they deserve, so doctors and pharmacists can use them?
Lisa
va
I was prescribed brand name Wellbutrin XL almost 10 years ago. Worked like nothing had ever before in my life. Loved it. Got switched to generic. Tried 3-4 different generics, which resulted in either no effect at all (feeling like I withdrew, right back to depression in 3 days), and it “dumping” in my system: for the first 3 hours I felt high as a kite, couldn’t sit still, teeth chattering followed by the worst crashes of my life by 3 pm every day. I felt like dying, sat and cried for hours.
I’ve been taking only the name brand for years now. And at every pharmacy, they have to special order it. Won’t keep it in stock, and argue that I’m crazy for not getting the generic.
Debbie
Dallas, TX
I have had similar experience as what others have shared. I was on Wellbutrin XL 300 mg for many years. When I took it, I felt like myself. The first generic I took several years ago did not work. Then I started getting a generic that did seem to work. For the past 3-4 moths, I have been struggling with my depression. I am tired all the time, I can’t get out of bed in the mornings, I’m anxious, weepy, and forgetful. I don’t feel like myself and am miserable in my own skin. HELP!!!!
Marie
Virginia
I am so glad that to see that this issue is being brought up again!
I have been on generic Bupropion for close to 10 years. I noticed about 9 months ago that my depression had come back in full, almost overnight it seemed. Very little energy, negative outlook on pretty much everything. And on top of that I gained 22 pounds while dieting and exercising, and began smoking again. Looking back I realized this nightmare began when my pharmacy switched generics to Actavis. My doc even increased my dosage from 300 xl to 450 xl, and I feel no different. It’s been absolutely terrible. Paying for the name brand is not an option for me.
Thank you for bringing this issue to light again. It is giving me a glimmer of hope that something can be done to fix this!
E
Oklahoma
How do you know if a certain manufacturer’s version is comparable to the brand name?
Be Be
Michigan
The generic version of Wellbutrin does not work for me. I don’t seem to notice if there is a difference amongst the different generic brands of buproprion, but there is no doubt that Wellbutrin brand makes all the difference in my quality of life. Basically I have no life if not taking Wellbutrin. (brand name)
I have found a solution. Online Pharmacies Canada. I can get a three month supply of Wellbutrin XL (300 mg) for about $128. I just had to have my doctor fax over the prescription. It’s supposed to be here in two weeks. I just hope it starts working within a few days.
Why why why does the real thing have to be so expensive??? It seems to me if Valient (the manufacturer ) lowered the price to something reasonable out insurance companies wouldn’t keep denying it. Then they would make more money…..right? Because they would sell more…? I can’t imagine there are many people who can afford $1500 per month.
On another note…does anyone know of a similar drug to Wellbutrin that is not so expensive? (OBVIOUSLY I’M NOT LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO TELL ME ABOUT THE GENRIC VERSION). My research has shown Wellbutrin works on dopamine, not serotonin. When I take drugs that work on the serotonin in my brain I’m tired and hungry 24/7. Frustrating!
Valerie
So should i start the generic Wellbutrin XL or should I try another medication because it seems like the generic companies are not delivering the proper ingredients that consists with Wellbutrin
Valerie
Now im worried i did alot of research of this drug I’m only on the 150 mg just started it the Wellbutrin generic hope it works out for me
Valerie
Michigan
Is it just the 300mg dose? Thats what in hearing, i just started Wellbutrin xl generic for a week it is effecting my vision but not going to give up yet.
Jamie
California
I was prescribed Wellbutrin for feelings of tiredness and fatigue brought on by another medication. Within days and weeks, I was behaving differently but I didn’t realize what was going on and that it was the medication. A patient and calm-natured person, this made me into someone my friends and family didn’t recognize at times — angsty, agitated, crying for no apparent reason – it ruined my life. Please get this off the market. I had no idea a medication could cause all of these awful things — and the doctor who prescribed said he was not aware I was given a generic and would have never had me take it if he knew it was the generic given the history of severe side effects.
MARGARET
Houston
I have always thought that generic drugs could be made by colleges with pharmaceutical programs. I think our political institutions should bring lawsuits against manufacturers that do not provide the exact ingredients, including delivery methods. Wellbutrin had a good reputation as a antidepressant until manufacturers messed with the delivery systems.
Wellbutrin was also a very good price from the beginning, until they got greedy…now generics are altering the ingredients and delivery systems and starting to charge more…sort of like the Epipen problem.
It was brought before the Grand Jury, why can’t we do the same with other drugs, price gouging and harmful ingredients.
Sally
California
I’ve been taking generic Wellbutrin for many years. A few years ago I started feeling unwell, and shortly thereafter read that the brand I was taking had been recalled. I was OK until a couple of months ago. I started to feel very agitated, hair-trigger temper, fuzzy-brained. My past experience with bupropion just occurred to me, and in googling it found out that there have recently been a lot of problems with the generic again. Nice to know that I’m not going crazy but no idea what to do about it. Anyone have any ideas?
Amy
Cary, NC
I’ve been having problems with Bupropion XL manufacturered by PAR Pharmaceuticals. It feels like I stopped taking the drug or tapered down drastically even though I’m taking it consistently as prescribed.
Katherine
NY
Reading these comments and considering my own experience just honestly makes me SO angry at drug manufacturers and insurance companies. If generic is working for you, great! Every body is different and it’s always preferable to pay less. But every doctor I’ve talked to about this issue groans because they know generic bupropion has been a problem for MANY patients. Like so many people, I react very differently to generic bupropion than I did to my Wellbutrin XL. With Wellbutrin, I felt like myself and could enjoy life again. Within weeks of switching to generic I have lost optimism, can’t sleep as well and have no interest in daily activities. I may as well not be taking anything (not to worry, I have no plans to quit cold turkey, I’m aware of the withdrawal symptoms). I’m particularly frustrated right now because I have dealt with this already. A year ago when I was first switched to generic and it did not work, my doctor made sure I could get Wellbutrin. It cost me more out of pocket but not an unreasonable amount ($60 vs $5, worth it to me). But now I have moved and have a new doctor and insurance and need to go through the whole thing all over again… the insurance is trying to say I will need to pay full price for the drug… fingers crossed that this works out for me, and all of you!
Alex
MI
I have tried ALL generic brands of Wellbutrin XL available in the U.S. Sadly, there has been no improvement with the generic formulations. Taking them is like taking nothing and, sometimes, side effects are worse. Insurance does not cover the brand. Therefore, I am stuck paying out of pocket an enormous price. Canada prices are better but still, they are expensive. Generics still don’t work!
Tim
I have been on Wellbutrin for many many years. I experienced great relief from my severe depression and of wanting to no longer live.
However in the last 6 months I have been going downhill. Especially in the last 3 months I have felt very agitated, have headaches, am horribly depressed again, and my anxiety is off the charts. And yes, I have severe memory loss. So much so that I feel like I may have Alzhiemers. I suspected that the Wellbutrin was not working but did not check into it until just now. The fact that so many people are having problems should be alarming to the FDA. Seeing others having problems similar to mine only intensifies my anxiety. What do I do now, and where do I turn?
It is said in this post to not stop taking the med suddenly. Well, that is exactly how it feels, and I haven’t stopped taking it. It feels like it’s just a placebo.
Valerie
Where you on 300 mg or 150mg?
Aaran
Tennessee
There is even a noticeable difference in generic manufacturers. My husband chooses to get his bupropion filled at a specific pharmacy because he says the brand they use works much better than the one at the new pharmacy we have been going to.
I’ve always had problems with irritability and depression so I don’t know if it effects me that way as well. A 30 day supply of generic is $9 but the original is $752!
Marilyn
Buffalo, NY
I’m a retired RN and since I graduated in 1975 I’ve seen two trends: More medications being recalled after they’ve harmed a significant number of people and more problems with generics. It’s gotten so bad that some doctors admit privately they won’t use generics for their patients unless they must.
My own personal experience is illustrative: When changed from Lexapro brand to the generic, my symptoms returned. Once back on the brand, I was fine.
Recently a family member became severely depressed when the pharmacy suddenly switched him from the brand to the generic version of Pristiq. After many weeks of horrible suffering the doctor finally got the insurance company to switch back to the brand Pristiq. After about a week and a half, the depression started to lift. Many generics simply cannot be considered “equivalent” when the binders and fillers and other aspects of the compound such as the time-release mechanism or compounds are different than what is found in the “brand” name drug. If these differences cause the medication to be absorbed, released or metabolized differently then they should NOT be considered to be “equivalent”.
JJ
Boca Raton,FL
These claims of lack of efficacy and negative effects of generic Wellbutrin are 100% FACT. For YEARS.
Who wouldn’t want an inexpensive generic to work? Who doesn’t want to feel their best and by the most cost-effective means? This is criminal and beyond that, one of the cruelest acts bestowed upon consumers in this United States of America. Despicable.
I’ve ridden this roller coaster. What’s needed is a new drug in the same family. Wellbutrin is in a class all its own. Need a competitor and the manufacturers will ALL get themselves in line.
Linda
Flint, Michigan
I wondered about the difference in the pills other than general appearance. I had not heard of the problems with the generic replacements. But now it makes sense.
I have been irritable, shaky, quick to snap and show anger. I am unbelievably tire at times. I feel like someone pulled my plug and a need to sleep right now! RIGHT NOW!! but it doesn’t really help.
My brain feels foggy and fuzzy. I just realized I ran out of the original round pills and have been taking the new oblong pills. Makes you think. I have moments I feel some what normal but it comes back. Makes it hard to get much done. It’s starting to make so sense now.
June C.
League City, TX
I started taking Wellbutrin about 2004 and found that if I took 150 mg in the morning and 150 mg in the evening I did just fine.
I don’t remember when I was switched over to BuPROPion Hydrochloride Extended Release tablets, USP (SR) but for me either one has worked equally well, same dosage. Maybe the company that makes them makes a difference–SANDOZ. I have personally ( and fortunately) not had any of the problems
that others have had. I sincerely hope that each of you find the relief you are looking for.
Kirsten
WI
I switched to the Sandoz brand as well and it was like night and day!! It’s the best thing I can find beside actual Wellbutrin (which I can’t afford the 500.00+/month for it).
For a while on the generic the manufacturer kept changing and I got so depressed I ended up in a hospital. They put me specifically on Sandoz and it has gotten so much better!
Sharon
UT
I also have had the same experience with Bupropion SR from Sandoz! And coincidentally I started taking it in 2004 as well :) . Every time I’ve been prescribed XL by accident, or my pharmacy has to switch to a different generic, it’s been just like going straight off the medication – pure craziness. Sandoz is own by Novartis, and I remember when I spent some time working with pharmaceutical companies years ago that Novartis was pretty reputable then. Now, if my pharmacy runs out of that generic and fills my script with another brand I panic and call right away. It is just not worth the mental anguish that I know I will go through to take another kind.
James
Dallas
The psychiatrist who originally prescribed brand-name Wellbutrin XL for me agreed with my assertion that the generic was not equal to the task. She had heard the same story from too many other patients.
I have tried the generic twice, for varying lengths of time, and found it worse than useless. Of course, no insurance company I have ever had, including Medicare, will cover the real thing because, well, you know, money. The fact that Canadians can buy the exact same pill for 3% of what American pay makes the situation all the more galling.
Ann
Houston TX
The generic Wellbutrin does not work half as well as the real drug. I was taken off Wellbutrin and given the generic. Within 6 months I realized something was wrong. I started with the crying, depressed feelings, not feeling well, in a word “Depressed .”
I realized that this started when I started the generic Wellbutrin. I spoke with my doctor and told him something was wrong with the generic version. All my problems were back again. I wanted to go back to the real Wellbutrin.
My meds are filled thru Express Scripts for my company insurance. I have to pay a considerable extra charge for a 3 month supply out of my pocket, but it is worth every dime. I am back to feeling much better.
The generic Wellbutrin is still not working in 2016. It isn’t in your mind it really does not work well. I would send to Canada or Mexico to get the real thing if it is taken away because of the cost factor. It really works and that’s worth every dollar you spend. How sad that some insurances won’t cover it. Greed and money go together for many of these drug companies ?
Eleanor
Ca
I found this information very helpful, I was not alone with this med problem. For about sixteen years i took just half of 75mg of brand Wellbutrin which worked very well for me. If needed went to full 75mg. I am extremely sensitive to meds so I react to slightest change in ingredients. Was told brand was taken off the market over a year ago and went on generic. Problems ever since, sadness, great loss of motivation , crying and weight gain. It is indeed tragic when we do not have access to correct med for those of us who really can benefit . Am now on small orange rounds made in Canada and am curious about the Sandoz being close to brand . Would appreciate any further information. Thank You!
Dr. Judith
Kfar Saba, Israel
Wellbutrin was also listed as a medicine which helps people stop their smoking habit. I prescribed it for a heavy smoker. He was given a generic equivalent. It made him so nervous, he doubled the number of cigarettes he smoked.
J. David
Springfield, MO, USA
My patients had good luck with the Saskatchewan Pharmacy. One of my friends though got pills from what he thought was a Canadian pharmacy, in a different Province, without Atenolol in them, went into withdrawal and generated more than $10,000 in ER charges and suffered discomfort and blood pressure elevations until the problem was correctly diagnosed.
L
Bulverde, TX
My husband was prescribed buproprion (generic Welbutron) for depression. He became even more agitated and not very nice. He was taken off after a week. He has other issues, which make him very crabby and the buproprion exacerbated the meanness.
I took Welbutrin in the past and had very good results.
AES
Florence, SC
Wellbutrin worked for me in ways that helped my depression and even my Attention Deficit Disorder for 15 years or so.
About 6 years ago, I noticed changes in my behavior and reactions that directly correlated to the changing appearance of the pill itself. Research revealed that the specific labs and providers made a significant difference. I use RiteAid and found that specifically requesting (every month) for the lab to be ‘Watson Labs’ determined if I would get the same old tried-and-true results or not. That particular lab seemed to get it right where others seriously missed the mark.
About 3 years ago, all the options were narrowed and I was unable to find meds created by that place. Was reluctant to believe that the specific lab could make that big of a difference but I am convinced of it now.
I’ve been trying totally different meds for the last 2 years, trying and hoping for the same positive results that I had gotten for those first 15 years. No such luck, yet.
Debbie
Georgia
I was on Wellbutrin XL 300 in 2007 for a few years, brand name. It was affordable then. Then price went up and insurance refused to pay so went to generic. Side effects were so bad I stopped taking it.
Now I am going through a bad time again. My husband has PPA and Alzheimer’s. I need to be taking Wellbutrin again. I tried generic but felt worse: horrible thoughts, nightmares, aggressive actions. But brand name too expensive.
This is the United States of America, why can’t we get brand name drugs at a decent price? Generic drugs are a cheap joke.
Skip
10036
I was given the original drug about 8-10 years ago. I think my first month was 200my. I started to have memory loss, some big things I forgot but small things like going to the pharmacy to buy a couple of things and at the pharmacy, I forgot what I wanted to buy. The second month, my doc went up to 300mg and I had maybe double the memory loss that month from the month before. I was now mad and worried. I called the mfg and the gal was very nice, she said she worked for the company a long time and she didn’t know of any memory loss with this drug, but she said the big guy, who knows everything about their drugs was walking by and she would ask him. Five minutes later she comes back to me and said YES, this med could have a memory loss side effect.
In a nice way, I told her why was this not on the long list of 20 side effects, so I would know right away this was a problem drug for me? And she couldn’t answer me that. I hung up, threw the rest of that drug down the toilet and told my doc that that drug was done with me (it did help with my depression). In maybe a few days to a week, my memory loss issue was 100% gone and I was normal again, no memory loss again. Hope this helps some of you folks who could use this information.
Pamela
NY
It is extremely irresponsible to throw medicine down the toilet and into the municipal water supply that is recycled – or any waterway for that matter, instead of in the garbage. (There are other ways of safely disposing of drugs either through once a year collection or that can be found through hospitals and doctors I would imagine.)
Maggie
Arizona
Put your throw away meds into a 16 ounce or so empty water or soda bottle, add enough water to dissolve the meds well into a slurry or liquid solution. To that add kitty litter or dirt to make it a semi-solid or solid mass. Recap and tape the lid and dispose in your regular garbage. The last I knew, pharmacies no longer take medications for disposal.
Kate
FL
I have been taking Bupropion HCL 150mg XL, generic for Wellbutrin XL 150mg. Other than dosage, is this the same as described above? I have been taking it for about 20 years with no side effects whatsoever. I swear by it, it really has made a difference in my mental well being. The price is still affordable and covered by insurance.
Linda
Kirkland, WA
Re generic Wellbutrin, I was surprised that there was no mention of extreme dry mouth. I am not exaggerating when I say that I was unable to say one word without having to take a drink of water. I had only been taking it for a few days. My doctor put me on the brand med and I haven’t had any side effects. She said several of her patients complained of this.
June
Dayton
I take Bupropion HCl 150 mg. I had lots of nausea. I’ve been taking it for about a year, I will monitor it closer. Thanks for the info!
Anne
Wisconsin
I was very nauseated and dizzy. I was only on it a couple of days so I quit.