Generic Versions of Wellbutrin

The FDA reported this week that the dose that includes 300 mg of generic bupronion that is sold under a famous label Budeprion XL (this medication is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals and Impax Laboratories) must be removed from the modern market as it doesn’t work as it was expected. However, the same doesn’t apply to the brand name type of this drug, which is called Wellbutrin, and other generic versions.

The FDA: “We ask 4 other drug makers that produce this type of medication to test their pills that have 300 mg strength to make sure that it works as it should.” These actions of the FDA are based on different studies that were conducted in more than 20 adults that claim that the generic version of Budeprion 300 mg doesn’t provide the same effects as the branded name drug Wellbutrin. It means that the generic form is not released into their blood stream at the same level and in the same amount as compared to the branded version.

This definitely means that Budeprion XL may not deliver the expected antidepressant properties as Wellbutrin. Besides, this fact can also explain different reports from people who claimed that their depression symptoms and signs have even worsened after they started to take Budeprion instead of Wellbutrin. 

The FDA: “We believe that the main issue is connected with the 300 mg dose Budeprion. However, we have also requested that 4 other producers of generic drugs (which are Mylan, Actavis, Watson, and Anchen) conduct studies and carry out researches to prove that their pills have the same effects as the branded form Wellbutrin.” The FDA asked these manufacturers to submit their results by March 2013. The previous researched carried out to gain the generic approval by the FDA have shown that 150 mg pills of Budeprion have equivalent effects as compared to Wellbutrin.

In conclusion, if someone is taking a generic form of the branded drug Wellbutrin, it is always better to check a prescription pill bottle to get more information. When people see oval-hsaped pills that have yellow color and imprinted number 682 on one side, they deal with Budeprion XL. So, it is advised to contact a healthcare provider to receive an alternative medication. It is not allowed to stop taking any drug on one’s own. And be sure that Budeprion 150 mg pills are not affected by the announcement made by the FDA.