L016 Pill (Bupropion XL 300mg) EXPLAINED: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Depression Relief Guide [2025]
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medication.
What is the L016 Pill?
The L016 white pill is a prescription-only medication containing Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (XL) 300 mg. It’s commonly used for:
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Treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
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Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
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Supporting smoking cessation (under the brand Zyban)
Imprint: L016
Color: White
Shape: Round
Size: ~9 mm
Drug Class: Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitor (NDRI)
Formulation: Extended Release (XL)
How Bupropion Works
Unlike SSRIs (like sertraline), Bupropion does not affect serotonin. Instead, it works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in your brain. These two neurotransmitters are associated with:
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Motivation
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Pleasure
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Energy
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Mental focus
Bupropion is often preferred for people with fatigue-based depression or those sensitive to sexual side effects from SSRIs.
Common Medical Uses of the L016 Pill
Use Case | Description |
---|---|
Depression | Approved for moderate to severe MDD |
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) | Often started before winter months |
Smoking Cessation | Reduces nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms |
ADHD Off-label | Occasionally used when stimulants aren’t tolerated (doctor’s decision) |
Dosage & Timing Guidelines
Patient Type | Dosage | Frequency | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Standard Adult | 300 mg (1 pill) | Once daily | Take in the morning |
Starting Dose | 150 mg (other formulation) | Once daily | For first 3 days to reduce seizure risk |
Missed Dose | Skip & resume next day | Do NOT double dose |
Important:
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Always keep 24 hours between doses
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Take with food if it upsets your stomach
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Do not crush, chew, or split XL tablets
Serious Warning: Seizure Risk
L016 (Bupropion XL) carries a dose-dependent risk of seizures, especially if:
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You exceed 300 mg/day
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You drink alcohol heavily
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You have eating disorders (bulimia/anorexia)
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You take interacting meds (e.g., MAOIs, antipsychotics)
If you feel confused, lose consciousness, or twitch involuntarily, seek emergency help immediately.
Side Effects of L016 Pill (Bupropion XL 300mg)
Common (usually temporary):
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Insomnia
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Dry mouth
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Anxiety or restlessness
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Headaches
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Increased sweating
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Nausea
Less Common:
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Dizziness
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Fast heartbeat
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Irritability
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Shaky hands
Serious (rare):
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Seizures
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Hallucinations
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Suicidal thoughts (especially under 25)
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Blurred vision or eye pain
Most side effects fade within the first 2–4 weeks.
L016 and Sleep Disruption
Because Bupropion is activating, taking it at night may cause insomnia. Tips:
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Take it early in the morning (7–10am)
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Avoid caffeine late in the day
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Ask doctor if switching to SR (sustained release) is better
L016 vs Wellbutrin XL vs Zyban
Feature | L016 (Generic) | Wellbutrin XL | Zyban |
---|---|---|---|
Ingredient | Bupropion XL 300 mg | Same | Same |
Use | Depression, SAD, Smoking | Depression, SAD | Smoking only |
Price | Low | Branded | |
Release type | Extended Release | Extended Release | Extended Release |
Functionally the same – only branding and FDA labeling differs.
Expert Commentary
“Bupropion is unique among antidepressants. It boosts energy and has fewer sexual side effects, but seizure risk means we’re careful about who gets it and how it’s dosed.”
— Dr. E. Stone, Clinical Psychiatrist
L016 pill and Alcohol: A Risky Combo
Avoid alcohol while taking Bupropion. Even moderate drinking may increase:
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Seizure risk
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Mood instability
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Blood pressure
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Sleep problems
If you drink, be honest with your doctor.
L016 pill vs SSRIs and SNRIs
Medication Class | Dopamine Boost? | Weight Gain Risk | Sexual Side Effects | Energy Boost? |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bupropion (NDRI) | ✅ Yes | ❌ Low | ❌ Minimal | ✅ Strong |
SSRIs (e.g., Zoloft) | ❌ No | ✅ Moderate | ✅ Common | ❌ Low |
SNRIs (e.g., Effexor) | ⚠️ Slight | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Moderate | ✅ Moderate |
Real-Life Stories
“Within 3 weeks, I had more energy and stopped craving cigarettes.”
— Daniel, 34, ex-smoker
“I had vivid dreams and dry mouth at first, but my depression lifted.”
— Maya, 28, SAD patient
“I used to feel flat on SSRIs. L016 helped me feel alive again.”
— Jon, 41, recovering from burnout
L016 pill FAQ Section
❓ Can I take L016 at night?
❌ Not recommended. It may cause insomnia.
❓ How long until I feel results?
⏳ Most people feel improvement in 2–4 weeks, though energy may return earlier.
❓ Is it safe for teenagers?
⚠️ Use only if prescribed. Risk of suicidal thoughts is higher under age 25.
❓ What if I miss a dose?
⛔ Skip it. Do NOT double-dose Bupropion.
Pros and Cons of L016 Pill 
Pros:
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Boosts motivation and energy
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Minimal sexual side effects
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Can help stop smoking
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Weight-neutral or weight-loss effect
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Affordable generic option
Cons:
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Risk of seizures if misused
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May cause anxiety early on
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Not suitable for patients with eating disorders
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Can’t be mixed with alcohol
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