Bupropion Price Guide: What You’ll Pay for Wellbutrin and Its Generic

If you’ve ever checked the price tag on a bottle of Wellbutrin, you know it can feel like a mystery. One pharmacy lists $25 for a month’s supply, another shows $75. Why the jump? Let’s break down the factors that drive bupropion’s cost and give you practical ways to keep the bill low.

Brand vs. Generic: The Core Price Difference

The brand name, Wellbutrin, is the original formulation made by GlaxoSmithKline. It carries a premium because of the research, marketing, and trademark protection built into the price. The generic version—just called bupropion—contains the same active ingredient, the same dosage strengths, and works just as well, but it’s sold by many manufacturers after the patent expired. In the U.S., generic bupropion can be 50‑80% cheaper than the brand.

How Insurance and Pharmacy Choice Affect Your Bill

Most health plans put brand drugs in a higher tier, meaning higher co‑pays. If your plan lists bupropion as a Tier 2 or Tier 3 medication, you’ll likely pay less with the generic. Also, big‑box chains and supermarket pharmacies usually have lower cash prices than boutique or hospital pharmacies. When you shop around, call three nearby stores and ask for the price of “bupropion 150 mg tab, 30‑day supply” to get a clear picture.

Online pharmacies add another layer of savings. Reputable sites that require a prescription often list generic bupropion for as low as $5‑$10 per month. Look for certifications like VIPPS or a U.S. pharmacy license, and read customer reviews before you click “add to cart.” Avoid any site that offers brand Wellbutrin for under $1 per tablet—that’s a red flag for counterfeit meds.

Discount cards and coupons can shave off extra dollars. Services such as GoodRx, Blink Health, or manufacturer‑provided coupons (if you qualify) provide printable codes that bring down the cash price at the pharmacy counter. It’s a quick step that can save you $15‑$30 on a month’s supply.

Don’t forget to factor in dosage. Some doctors prescribe 150 mg once daily, others split 300 mg into two doses. The higher the dose, the higher the total cost, even with the same price per tablet. If you’re on a stable dose, ask your pharmacist if a bulk purchase (90‑day supply) is cheaper per pill. Many plans allow a 90‑day fill, and the per‑tablet price often drops by a third.

Finally, keep an eye on regional price variations. States with larger Medicare populations sometimes have lower average drug prices due to negotiated discounts. If you travel or live near a state border, you might find a better price just a short drive away.

Bottom line: the cheapest way to get bupropion is to choose the generic, use a trusted online pharmacy or discount card, and compare prices across at least three sources. With a bit of shopping savvy, you can keep your monthly cost well under $20, even without insurance.