Wellbutrin, also known as Zyban, is an antidepressant that also moonlights as a drug used for smoking cessation. Although an effective aid in helping people quit smoking, the FDA issued a warning in July of 2009, stating that it has been associated with changes in thought and behavior, depression and suicidal thoughts and actions. Although these don't pertain to every person who takes Wellbutrin, you should be aware of the best way to take this drug and what side effects it can spur.
How to Stop Smoking With Wellbutrin
Step 1
Talk to your doctor. Before making the decision to use Wellbutrin, speak to your doctor and inform him of all medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, vitamins and supplements. Wellbutrin might interact negatively with certain medications. This drug also has a tendency to cause seizures in people who suffer from certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy.
Step 2
Set a quit date. Wellbutrin does not contain nicotine. Therefore, it is safe to smoke for a short period while taking the medication. Revolution Health recommends setting your quit date for your second treatment week, which allows seven days for the medication to enter your blood stream and assist you with your efforts.
Step 3
Follow your dosing instructions. It is imperative to follow the instructions on your prescription label. The experts at Drugs.com state the importance of taking Wellbutrin only in the dose prescribed and only for the length of time it is prescribed for. You can take it with or without food, however if you are taking the extended-release tablet, you must swallow it whole. Breaking or crushing it can result in too much medication being released too soon.
Step 4
Recognize the side effects. According to Drugs.com, your doctor should be called immediately if any of the following side effects occur: seizures, hallucinations or unusual thoughts, confusion, severe blistering or skin rash and fever, swollen glands or joint pain.
Step 5
Go for exams. During your course of treatment, go for regular checkups with your doctor. He might need to adjust your dose, allowing you to receive the most benefit from your treatment. He may also need to prescribe an additional form of treatment such as the nicotine patch or gum if you are still finding it difficult to quit.
