What is the recommended dosage of Bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) for smoking cessation?

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Last updated: May 12, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

Wellbutrin XL (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release) is typically prescribed at 150 mg once daily for the first 3 days, then increased to 150 mg orally, twice daily, if tolerated, for smoking cessation, as recommended by the NCCN clinical practice guidelines in oncology 1. The dosage is initiated 1-2 weeks prior to quitting and continues for 7-12 weeks. Key points to consider when prescribing Wellbutrin XL for smoking cessation include:

  • The medication should be taken in the morning to minimize insomnia, and tablets must be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.
  • Patients should set a specific quit date and may use nicotine replacement therapy alongside Wellbutrin XL if needed.
  • The medication works by affecting brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Common side effects include dry mouth, insomnia, and headache.
  • Wellbutrin XL should be avoided by those with seizure disorders, eating disorders, or those taking MAO inhibitors, as stated in the guidelines 1. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to monitor progress and manage any side effects, with follow-up recommended within 2 weeks after starting pharmacotherapy, and additional periodic follow-up during therapy, as indicated 2.

From the Research

Dosage of Wellbutrin XL for Smoking Cessation

  • The studies provided do not specifically mention the dosage of Wellbutrin XL for smoking cessation 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
  • However, it is known that bupropion, the active ingredient in Wellbutrin XL, is effective for smoking cessation and is typically prescribed in a sustained-release formulation 3, 4, 5.
  • One study mentions that bupropion SR was titrated to 150 mg by mouth twice daily for a total of 12 weeks, in combination with varenicline, for the treatment of tobacco dependence 5.
  • Another study notes that bupropion is classified as an atypical antidepressant and is actually a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, but does not specify the dosage for smoking cessation 6.

Efficacy of Wellbutrin XL for Smoking Cessation

  • The studies suggest that bupropion, in combination with other medications such as varenicline, may be effective for increasing smoking abstinence rates above that observed with monotherapy 4, 5.
  • One study found that combination therapy with varenicline and bupropion SR yielded greater efficacy than varenicline monotherapy in two randomized controlled trials and one retrospective outcomes study 4.
  • Another study found that varenicline seems to be more effective in maintaining abstinence and reducing craving than bupropion and NRT 6.
  • A comparative effectiveness trial found that varenicline and combination nicotine replacement therapy (C-NRT) were more effective than nicotine patch monotherapy in achieving biochemically verified 7-day point-prevalence abstinence 4 weeks post-target quit day (TQD) 7.

References

Guideline

smoking cessation, version 1.2016, nccn clinical practice guidelines in oncology.

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN, 2016

Guideline

smoking cessation, version 1.2016, nccn clinical practice guidelines in oncology.

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN, 2016

Research

Combination bupropion SR and varenicline for smoking cessation: a systematic review.

The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse, 2016

Research

Varenicline and bupropion sustained-release combination therapy for smoking cessation.

Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco, 2009

Research

Smoking cessation pharmacotherapy; varenicline or bupropion?

Daru : journal of Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 2024

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.