Which is better Wellbutrin (bupropion) or Zoloft?

Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both medications used to treat depression, but they work in different ways and have different mechanisms of action.

Wellbutrin is an atypical antidepressant or dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (DNRI), which works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing their availability and improving symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Zoloft is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, increasing its availability and improving symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Both medications can be effective for treating depression, but the choice of medication may depend on the individual’s specific symptoms, medical history, and other factors.

Wellbutrin may be preferred for individuals with depression and symptoms such as low energy, fatigue, and poor motivation, as it can improve energy and motivation levels. Zoloft may be preferred for individuals with depression and symptoms such as low mood, anxiety, and poor sleep, as it can improve mood and reduce anxiety.

It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of each medication with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your individual needs.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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