Wellbutrin XL Now Available as Generic

On December 14, 2006, the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first generic version of Wellbutrin XL (bupropion hydrochloride) Extended-Release Tablets.

This approval could mean significant savings for patients, given the popularity of Wellbutrin. According to an online magazine for pharmacists called Drug Topics, Wellbutrin XL was the 21st highest-selling brand-name drug in the United States in the year 2005, with sales totaling $1,326,323,000. The FDA notes that over 50% of all prescriptions are generally filled with a generic drug.

When approving generic drugs, the FDA takes steps to ensure that the generic drug is bioequivalent to the brand name drug. Generic drugs must be equal in dosage form, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use.

Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release will be available in 150 mg and 300 mg tablets. It is manufactured by Anchen Pharmaceuticals Inc, of Irvine, CA.