Wellbutrin Quit Smoking Pill (Zyban)

The Wellbutrin quit smoking pill is one name for Bupropion HCL (generic) and is also known as Zyban. This medicine does not contain nicotine and has a very low potential for abuse or addiction. Bupropion is believed to stimulate dopamine, a brain chemical that causes a "feel-good" response similar to that produced by nicotine and other addictive drugs. This response may lower your "craving" for nicotine.

USE:
Patients often start this medication a few days to a week before their actual quit date. Patients may take doses up to 300mg/day (doctor prescribed) for smoking cessation with not more than 150mg per dose1. Careful attention should be paid to not take doses to close together (<8 hours1) as this may increase the risk of seizure. If you forget to take a dose, it's generally advised to skip it and take your next dose at the regular time.

The Wellbutrin quit smoking pill can be used along with a nicotine replacement patch for enhanced cessation treatment. Consult with your doctor before using a patch as high blood pressure is a side effect. Do not smoke if using the patch or other form of nicotine replacement therapy. Talk with your health care provider before stopping this medication.

Special Precautions:
This medication should not be used if you are already taking a form of Wellbutrin, Zyban or any other medicines containing bupropion HCL.
It is also contraindicated if you have a history of:

  • An eating disorder (bulimia, anorexia);
  • Have a history of seizure(s);
  • Are pregnant or breast-feeding;
  • Are currently or recently taken a monamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI);
  • And, for those who have abruptly stopped drinking alcohol or taken other sedatives.


    • Be sure to tell your physician your complete medical history, including the name of all medications or (including over-the-counter and supplements)1. Additionally, as with all anti-depressant medications, increased suicidal and depressive thoughts may occur, particularly in adolescents. Close monitoring of any worsened symptoms is advised.

    SIDE EFFECTS:
    The most common side effects include dry mouth, and difficulty sleeping. These side effects are generally mild and often disappear after a few weeks (per Zyban prescribing information sheet). If sleep difficulty occurs, try taking the medication before 5pm (at least 8 hours after previous dose).

    More serious side effects include: Seizure; high blood pressure; allergic reaction; and unusual thoughts or behaviors. Be sure to tell your doctor about any and all side-effects that you experience.

    While using Zyban to quit smoking can be an effective aid, it works best when used as a part of a quit smoking program. For complete prescribing information, visit the reference link below. And always consult with your doctor before making any health care decisions.

    REFERENCE: 1Zyban medication Guide. GlaxoSmithKline. Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. Accessed Dec. 16, 2007, http://us.gsk.com/products/assets/us_zyban.pdf

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