Bupropion (Zyban®)—an Antidepressant Aid to Stop Smoking
The antidepressant bupropion, sold under the Zyban® name, has been used with some success as an aid to stop smoking. While traditionally used to treat people suffering from depression, Zyban® has been found to help smokers who are not suffering from depression. Zyban® does not contain any nicotine—which prevents it from feeding the nicotine addiction that smokers are faced with. Because Zyban® does not contain any nicotine, there is an option of pairing the medication with a nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). For the best chance of success with your smoking cessation plan, you may want to discuss your cessation options with your doctor.
Like all smoking cessation aids, Zyban® is best used as part of an actual plan to stop smoking. Stop smoking plans generally include a stop date as well as solutions for cravings, smoking triggers and an emotional support group.
Patients Report Zyban® Side Effects
Zyban®, like smoking cessation drug CHANTIX®, has side effects that consumers should be aware of. The following are the most commonly reported side effects:
- Dry mouth, affecting 1 out of 10 patients using bupropion (Zyban®).
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia), affecting 35% to 40% of patients using bupropion (Zyban®).
In over 70% of the people who use bupropion (Zyban®), the above side effects go away within about a week after they stop taking the medicine. Only about 10% of people have to stop taking bupropion (Zyban®) because of side effects.
Less common side effects (occurring in less than 10% of people) include:
- Dizziness.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Upset stomach (nausea).
- Anxiety.
- Constipation.
- Tremors.
- Skin problems or rashes.
There is a small risk of having seizures when using bupropion (Zyban®). The risk increases if you have had seizures in the past before using bupropion (Zyban®). The FDA has issued an advisory on antidepressants and the possible risk of suicide. Similar to CHANTIX®, patients should be watched closely for (worsening of) depression and increased suicidal thinking or behavior. Close watching may be especially important early in treatment, or when the dose is changed, either increased or decreased.
Zyban® is one of many options for assistance in quitting smoking. Other popular methods include:
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)—more information
- Varenicline (CHANTIX®)—side effects and other information