Millions of people in the United States have health problems caused by smoking, states the National Cancer Institute. Many current smokers are aware that smoking is bad for their health, but have difficulty quitting on their own. Two prescription medications, bupropion and varenicline, may help these smokers be able to successfully quit once and for all.
Function
Bupropion and varenicline both work on chemicals in the brain to make it easier for a person to quit smoking, but in slightly different ways. According to the National Cancer Institute, bupropion works to control the urge to smoke while varenicline works to block the effects of cigarettes if the person does resume smoking.
Time Frame
Bupropion takes approximately five to seven days to be effective, so people interested in using this medication should ideally begin taking it a week or two before attempting to quit. The Mayo Clinic states that although this medication is typically taken for 12 weeks, people may choose to take it as long as six months longer if they would like to prevent a smoking relapse.
The typical treatment plan for quitting smoking with varenicline also requires people to begin taking the medication about a week before their "quit date." This medication is also typically taken for 12 weeks, but people may continue to take the medication for an additional 12 weeks if they feel they need extra help to prevent a smoking relapse, explains the Mayo Clinic.
Side Effects
The National Cancer Institute lists dry mouth, insomnia, dizziness, headache and skin rash as potential side effects of taking bupropion. The organization states that the potential side effects of varenicline are nausea or vomiting, constipation, changes in dreaming and vomiting. People interested in taking either of these medications should talk to a doctor about these side effects before deciding to take either medication.
Considerations
Although both medications may be useful in the process of quitting smoking, these medications are not for everyone. People with a history of seizures, eating disorders or those taking other medications containing bupropion hydrochloride should not take bupropion. Those with kidney problems and women who are or may be pregnant or are breastfeeding should not take varenicline.
Warning
In 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration began requiring that both bupropion and varenicline carry a black box warning. This warning states that both medications are associated with serious mental health problems, including an increased risk for suicidal thoughts or actions and an increase in hostility and depression. All people interested in taking these medications should carefully consider these risks and discuss them with a doctor before deciding if this approach is right for them. Those already taking one of these medications should call a doctor or mental health professional immediately if they begin to experience suicidal thoughts.
