Teva’s generic Wellbutrin XL equivalence validated

FDA reaffirms the therapeutic equivalence of Teva's extended-release bupropion tablets April 16 following a re-evaluation of the safety and efficacy for the antidepressant. FDA initiated the review of the generic version of GlaxoSmithKline's Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) after receiving 85 post-marketing reports in the first half of 2007. The majority of the reports involve loss of efficacy following a switch from the brand to generic product, which is manufactured by Impax. Other reports were for onset or worsening of side effects, consistent with the adverse effects in labeling. However, FDA concludes that Teva's 300 mg tablets, marketed as Budeprion XL, are bioequivalent and therapeutically equivalent to Wellbutrin XL, despite small differences in pharmacokinetic profiles. Impax is also approved for 100 mg, 150 mg and 200 mg dosages of extended-release bupropion. Other manufacturers of generic Wellbutrin XL include Sandoz, Anchen, Actavis and Watson