The Cost of Bupropion Without Insurance
By Jennifer Hadley••Updated April 20, 2021
image of man holding out a glass of water in one hand and two pills in the other hand
More than 17 million American adults suffered a major depressive episode in 2017, per the National Institute of Mental Health. Depression requires medical intervention to reduce the symptoms, and prevent worsening mental health. If left untreated, depression can lead to fatal outcomes. Fortunately, treatment for depression is readily available, and affordable even if you’re unemployed.
Treatment for various types of depression may include a combination of therapy and medication, such as Bupropion (brand names Wellbutrin). If you’re unemployed and struggling with depression, it’s important to know that the cost of bupropion without insurance is affordable.
How much does bupropion without insurance?
If you don’t have health insurance, and you’ve been prescribed bupropion, RxSaver offers coupons that can reduce the price of your medication to less than $20 per month.RxSaver coupons can also be used in place of your insurance, as they may reduce the cost of your prescription to less than your copay.
What is the cost of bupropion without insurance?
The cost of bupropion without insurance starts at $6.50* for 75mg and 30 tablets using an RxSaver coupon.
Medication prices vary depending on the type of medication but RxSaver can help you save on the cost of your medication prescription without or without insurance. Be sure to check RxSaver before filling a prescription to make sure you are saving the most at the pharmacy counter. Check out RxSaver's free search tool below.
What is bupropion?
Bupropion is a prescription drug medication belonging to a class of drugs known as norepinephrine/dopamine-reuptake inhibitors (NDRI), or anti-depressants. Bupropion may begin working to reduce physical symptoms of depression, such as difficulty sleeping, lack of energy, or lack of appetite within 1-2 weeks. However, it typically takes 4-6 weeks for symptoms such as a depressed mood, or lack of interest in daily activities to improve.
How does bupropion work in the brain?
Bupropion works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter, sometimes referred to as a chemical messenger. Dopamine plays a contributing role in motor function, mood, and decision-making. In other words, adequate levels of dopamine contribute to individuals experiencing a “good mood.”
By contrast, depleted levels of dopamine contribute to difficulty concentrating, reduced alertness, and potentially depression.
What conditions does bupropion treat?
Bupropion is used to treat Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Anxiety with Depression, Depression Associated with Bipolar Disorder, and Seasonal Affective Depression. It is also used to help smokers quit smoking.
Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive episodes are defined as a period of at least two weeks, when an individual experiences a depressed mood, along with symptoms such as a lack of interest or enjoyment in daily activities, difficulty sleeping, lack of energy, lack of concentration, problems with eating, and struggles with self-worth. Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder often involves a combination of therapy or counseling, along with medication.
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) is a chronic depression lasting longer than a major depressive episode. Individuals who suffer from PDD may struggle with a lack of energy, increased irritability, and sadness that just won’t go away. PDD requires ongoing medical care, which often includes a combination of therapy and medication.
Anxiety with Depression
Many individuals who have a history of anxiety disorders may develop depression with anxiety. Although depression and anxiety disorders are different, the symptoms are often similar. Those who have been diagnosed with anxiety with depression may be prescribed medication to help alleviate symptoms.
Depression Associated with Bipolar Disorder
Depression associated with Bipolar Disorder may be managed with a combination of therapies and medications. Antidepressants such as bupropion are often prescribed, along with therapy and/or mood stabilizers.
Seasonal Affective Depression
Seasonal Affective Depression (SAD) is a type of depression that is linked to seasonal changes. Seasonal Affective Depression frequently begins in the autumn and continues through winter. Treatment for SAD often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
Smoking Cessation Aid
Bupropion may be prescribed to help individuals quit smoking. Bupropion does not contain nicotine. Instead, it works to help reduce cravings and symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. As a smoking cessation aid, bupropion is often prescribed a week or two before you quit smoking, and is taken for several weeks to months after you have stopped smoking.
Can you buy Bupropion over the counter?
You cannot buy bupropion over the counter in the United States. You will need a prescription from a health care provider. In addition, you will likely have regular follow up appointments with your health care provider to ensure the medication is working as it should, and to discuss any potential side effects.
Side Effects of Bupropion
Common side effects of bupropion may include weight loss, difficulty sleeping, rapid heartbeat, sore throat, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, and constipation. Be sure to let your health care provider know of any common side effects.
Serious side effects, although rare, have been reported in individuals taking bupropion. These may include skin rashes, increased hostility, increased depression symptoms, increased agitation, suicidal thoughts, or a buzzing sound in your ear. Alert your health care provider to any serious side effects from bupropion immediately.
Always Check RxSaver Before Filling a Prescription
If you’re unemployed, without insurance, or concerned about affording prescription medication because your insurance has a high copay, look for coupons from RxSaver online. RxSaver coupons may help you to save up to 80% on your prescription. RxSaver coupons are designed to be used without insurance, although many individuals who are insured, use the coupons, instead of their insurance because the price with the coupon is lower than the insurance copay.
Bupropion: 75 mg / 30 tablets
*Lowest online price at national pharmacy chains Costco, CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens and Walmart as of 4/20/2021. Prices vary by location and pharmacy, see RxSaver.com for actual pricing in your area.
Jennifer Hadley
Jen Hadley is a freelance writer and journalist based in Los Angeles, who writes extensively about the medical, legal, health care, and consumer products industries. Jen is a regular contributor to RxSaver.
Carina Fung, PharmD, BCPPS
Carina Fung, PharmD, BCPPS., is a pharmacist who earned her PharmD from St. John’s University in Queens, NY. She maintains an active practice, serving as a Board-Certified Pediatric Pharmacotherapy Specialist at a large metropolitan teaching hospital in New York City. Carina has also published in pharmacy journals and works as a consultant reviewing medical articles for publication.
The information on this site is generalized and is not medical advice. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard seeking advice or delay in seeking treatment because of something you have read on our site. RxSaver makes no warranty as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of this information.
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