Zyban Side Effects

Zyban, generically sold as bupropion hydrochloride and also sold under the brand names Wellbutrin, Aplenzin and Budeprion, is a medication that helps you to quit smoking. Avoid Zyban if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as phenilzine and have a history of seizures (convulsions ) or eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, states Drugs.com. Combining all these with Zyban can lead to potentially harmful side effects.

Psychiatric Side Effects

Zyban can cause the development or worsening of psychiatric (of the mind) symptoms. According to Drugs.com, you may experience anxiety, panic attacks or trouble sleeping. In some instances, you may feel hostile, restless and aggressive. Zyban can also cause you to be hyperactive. In some unfortunate cases, you may become so severely depressed that you begin to form suicidal thoughts. When these psychiatric symptoms are left untreated, these thoughts may transform into suicidal behaviors. Seek help immediately if you experience these frightening symptoms.

Effects on Your Heart

Zyban can affect your heart and blood circulation. It may cause tachycardia (fast heartbeats) and vasodilation (widening of your blood vessels), states RxList.com. Postural hypotension (low blood pressure with changes in your position) and hypertension (high blood pressure) are also concerning side effects. In some rare instances, you may develop a heart attack or pulmonary embolism (blood clot in your lungs).

Overdose

In the event of a Zyban overdose, get immediate medical help. Symptoms of an overdose include muscle stiffness, fainting, tachycardia (fast heartbeat) and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat), states Drugs.com. You may also experience fainting spells, trouble breathing and hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren't present).

Gatrointestinal Side Effects

Zyban can harm your digestive system and lead to indigestion, flatulence (gas) and vomiting, according to RxList.com. You may also have trouble swallowing, heartburn, gingivitus (gum infection), jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) and bruxism (clenching of your teeth). In some instances, you may also develop a beefy red tongue called glossitis and develop such infections as hepatitis (liver infection), esophagitis (food tube infection) and pancreatitis (pancreas infection). Zyban can also cause stomach and gum bleeding, liver damage and increased salivation.

Allergic Reaction

Zyban can lead to an allergic response if you are intolerant of its ingredients. According to Drugs.com, signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, itchy skin bumps all over your skin and swelling of your throat, face or lips. Seek immediate medical help to prevent further damage to your body.

Other Physical Side Effects

According to RxList.com, Zyban may lead to fevers, chills, fatigue and fluctuations in your blood sugar levels. Zyban can also affect your blood cell counts and lead to anemia (low red blood cell counts), leukopenia (low white blood cell counts) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet counts). Weight gain, edema (swelling), acne, hair loss, urinary incontinence and impotence (sexual dysfunction) are other physical side effects of Zyban.

References

Article reviewed by Lori Newhouse Last updated on: Apr 26, 2011

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