N
The Daily Insight

Is Wellbutrin an MAOI or an SSRI?

Author

Isabella Ramos

Updated on March 01, 2026

Most antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). They boost the levels of serotonin in the brain. Bupropion, or Wellbutrin, is different. It is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI).

What drug class is Wellbutrin?

WELLBUTRIN (bupropion hydrochloride), an antidepressant of the aminoketone class, is chemically unrelated to tricyclic, tetracyclic, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, or other known antidepressant agents. Its structure closely resembles that of diethylpropion; it is related to phenylethylamines.

Which antidepressants are MAOI?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved these MAOIs to treat depression:

  • Isocarboxazid (Marplan)
  • Phenelzine (Nardil)
  • Selegiline (Emsam)
  • Tranylcypromine (Parnate)

Does Wellbutrin increase dopamine?

Wellbutrin, also known as bupropion, is one of the more commonly prescribed antidepressants. The drug is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, or NDRI. Basically, the medication alters a person’s mood by increasing dopamine levels in the brain.

What are the bad side effects of Wellbutrin?

In Summary. Common side effects of Wellbutrin include: insomnia,nausea,pharyngitis,weight loss,constipation,dizziness,headache,and xerostomia.

  • For the Consumer. Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children,adolescents,and young adults in short-term trials.
  • For Healthcare Professionals.
  • Further information.
  • Does welbutrin contain any MAOIs?

    In brief: No. Bupropion (wellbutrin) inhibits re-uptake of norepinephrine and Dopamine into neurons (nerve and brain cells). It does not inhibit mao, so there are no dietary restrictions or common medication interactions, unlike the the maois.

    Is Wellbutrin a SSRI?

    Wellbutrin is not an SSRI. It’s a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). What Is Wellbutrin? Wellbutrin is a drug that’s primarily used to treat depression. It works by balancing the chemicals in the brain, which results in elevating an individual’s mood. In addition to depression, Wellbutrin is prescribed to help people stop smoking.

    What is the best alternative to Wellbutrin?

    Therapy or counseling can never hurt anyone, and can be an important aspect of effective Wellbutrin alternatives. Natural and holistic alternative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, meditation, and yoga have also been very effective for many people who are trying to combat depression alternatively.